10 Best Products for Low Porosity Hair (2023)

Published by Aida Turner

Low porosity hair has tightly closed cuticles, making it challenging for water and products to enter the hair shaft. This characteristic of low porosity hair leads to dryness and diminished shine due to moisture retention struggles. The solution is to choose hair care products rich in humectants, such as glycerin and honey, which are known to attract moisture. Lightweight oils like argan and grapeseed can boost shine without creating buildup. However, it’s vital to steer clear of protein-rich products and heavy butter; they can coat and further seal the cuticle, blocking essential moisture.

After thorough research, I realized that those with low porosity hair need the following products: hair oil, shampoo and conditioner, leave-in conditioner, deep conditioner, moisturizer, gel, curl cream, hair mask, scalp scrub, and mousse. I have listed the best of these necessary products:

1. Best hair oil: Redken All Soft Argan-6 Oil
2. Best shampoo and conditioner: Kristin Ess Hydrating Signature Shampoo and Conditioner Set
3. Best leave-in conditioner: Curlsmith Vegan Leave-In Conditioner
4. Best deep conditioner: Briogeo Don’t Despair Repair Deep Conditioner
5. Best moisturizer: Urban Hydration Daily Hair Moisturizer
6. Best gel: OUIDAD Humidity Gel
7. Best curl cream: SEEN Curl Defining Styling Hair Cream
8. Best hair mask: tgin Rose Water Hydrating Hair Mask
9. Best scalp scrub: Nexxus Scalp Scrub Hair Treatment
10. Best mousse: Keranique Hair Mousse for All Hair Types

Best Oil for Low Porosity Hair

Redken All Soft Argan-6 Oil

• Sulfate and Paraben-Free: Gentle care experience.
• Refreshing Argan Oil Scent: Pleasant application sensation.
• Versatile Application: Suitable for both dry and damp hair.
• Continuous Nourishment: Recommended re-application on dry hair as needed.

Do you want to know more about hair oils? Check out our article on the best oils for low porosity hair!

Best Shampoo and Conditioner for Low Porosity Hair

Kristin Ess Hydrating Signature Shampoo and Conditioner Set

Kristin Ess is a celebrity hairstylist who launched her own line of hair products in 2017. The Hydrating Signature Sulfate Free Salon Shampoo and Conditioner Set is one of her best-selling products, designed to moisturize, soften and add shine to dry, damaged or color-treated hair. The Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner Set is formulated with avocado oil, which is rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, and lightly clarifying ingredients, which remove impurities and buildup without stripping the hair. The Set is also vegan, cruelty-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free and sulfate-free, making them safe for all hair types and textures.

The unique feature of the Kristin Ess Hydrating shampoo and conditioner set for low porosity hair is the inclusion of “Zip-Up Technology.” This formula works to “zip-up” split ends and address weak areas of the hair, mending the appearance of damaged cuticles. As a result, the hair shaft’s outer layer becomes sealed, enhancing moisture retention and protecting against environmental factors.

Additional Benefits for Low Porosity Hair:

• Sulfate and Phthalate-Free: Ensures gentle cleansing without stripping natural oils.
• Weightless Conditioning: Leaves hair soft without causing build-up, ideal for low porosity hair that struggles with product accumulation.
• Notable Fragrance: The Pear + Sandalwood + Magnolia scent offers a refreshing experience during application.
• Vegan Formulation: Ethical and natural ingredients that cater to the specific needs of low porosity hair.

Best Leave-in Conditioner for Low Porosity Hair

Curlsmith Vegan Leave-In Conditioner

Curlsmith Vegan Leave-In Conditioner is a premium, meticulously crafted conditioner that provides lightweight moisture without any build-up. Designed for any hair type, especially dry hair, this cream ensures strands are nourished, smooth, and soft.

The unique feature of the Curlsmith Vegan Leave-In Conditioner for low porosity hair is its ability to deeply moisturize each strand without causing build-up. This ensures that hair absorbs and retains the necessary moisture, making it silky, soft, and manageable without the heaviness often associated with other products.

Additional Benefits for Low Porosity Hair:

• Nourishing: Infused with Castor Oil, known for its stimulating and moisturizing properties, ensuring deep nourishment.
• Smoothening: Contains Babasu Oil, which smoothens the hair cuticle, reducing the chance of tangles and knots.
• Softening: The presence of Shea Butter ensures that hair remains soft to touch, addressing the often stiff nature of low porosity hair.
• Hydration Boost: The inclusion of Hyaluronic Acid provides an added layer of hydration, ensuring hair remains moisturized for longer.

Packaging: 16 fl. oz (473 ml)

User Opinion: Many users have lauded the Curlsmith Vegan Leave-In Conditioner for its ability to deliver intense moisture without any heaviness. The fresh scent and the ease of air-drying have been particularly appreciated, with users noting the lasting softness and manageability it imparts.

Opinion of Lippie Hippie’s Editor: Curlsmith Vegan Leave-In Conditioner showcases a thoughtful blend of natural ingredients, ensuring a holistic approach to hair care. Its ability to provide hydration without heaviness makes it a standout, and its commitment to being free from harmful chemicals, vegan, and cruelty-free adds to its allure.

Overall: Curlsmith Vegan Leave-In Conditioner is a top-tier choice for those seeking hydrated, soft, and manageable hair without weight. Its unique blend of natural ingredients promises surface-level beauty and deep-rooted hair health.

Where can I buy it? Amazon | Ulta | Walmart |

Best Deep-Conditioner for Low Porosity Hair

Briogeo Don’t Despair Repair Deep Conditioner

Briogeo’s Don’t Despair Repair Hair Mask is a deep conditioner tailored for dry, damaged, or color-treated hair. This award-winning weekly treatment has been recognized for balancing protein and moisture revitalizing parched and compromised strands.

The unique feature of Don’t Despair Repair Hair Mask for low porosity hair is its scientifically proven formula that can strengthen damaged hair up to 2X after three uses. Infusing strands with the optimal balance of protein and moisture repairs and prevents future breakage, making it particularly effective for hair that struggles with moisture retention.

Additional Benefits for Low Porosity Hair:

• Naturally-Derived Ingredients: Formulated with rosehip oil, B vitamins, and algae extract, ensuring hair is nourished with 97% naturally derived components.
•  Protein Boost: Addresses damage from heat styling and chemical treatments by filling in pits in the hair shaft, enhancing strength and resilience.
•  Optimal Moisture: Including antioxidant-rich ingredients restores essential hydration to dry or over-processed hair.
•  Suitable for All: Designed to support every hair type and texture, with a rinse-out formula, making it friendly even for fine hair.

Packaging: 8 fl. oz (237 mL)

User Opinion: Users have consistently praised the Don’t Despair Repair Hair Mask for its transformative effects, noting significant hair strength and texture improvements. The mask’s ability to deliver protein and moisture without weighing hair down has been a recurring highlight in user feedback.

Opinion of Lippie Hippie’s Editor: Briogeo’s Don’t Despair Repair Hair Mask is a testament to the brand’s commitment to natural, effective hair care. Its dual-action formula, which balances protein and moisture, addresses the core needs of damaged hair. The emphasis on naturally-derived ingredients and its cruelty-free certification make it a standout in hair treatments.

Overall, Briogeo’s Don’t Despair Repair Hair Mask is a top contender for those battling dry, damaged, or color-treated hair. Its unique formulation promises not just a temporary fix but a long-term solution, ensuring hair that’s visually appealing and fundamentally healthier.

Where can I buy it? Amazon | Ulta | Walmart |

Best Moisturizer for Low Porosity Hair

Urban Hydration Daily Hair Moisturizer

Urban Hydration presents the Daily Moisturizer, an all-natural solution for all hair types, including natural, relaxed, and color-treated hair. This moisturizer is infused with potent ingredients to repair damage, prevent breakage, detangle, and tame frizz, ensuring your hair remains soft, strong, shiny, and thoroughly hydrated.

The unique feature of Honey Health and Repair Moisturizer for low porosity hair is its unique combination of Honey and Vanilla Bean ingredients. These components work synergistically to provide intense moisture and damage control. Additionally, the non-greasy Argan Oil in the formula weightlessly repairs hair with proteins and moisture, promoting growth, controlling frizz, and enhancing shine and elasticity. This ensures that hair, especially low porosity types, receives the targeted hydration without any unwanted build-up.

Additional Benefits for Low Porosity Hair:

• Natural Ingredients: The moisturizer is free from harmful chemicals, ensuring hair health and safety.
•  Intense Moisturization: Honey and Vanilla Bean ingredients repair hair with deep hydration and damage control.
•  Argan Oil Benefits: Weightlessly repairs hair, controls frizz, and enhances shine and elasticity.
•  Detangling Properties: The formula breaks through tangles, restoring softness and making hair management easier.

Packaging: 9.1 fl. oz (269 ml)

Learn the correct way to moisturize low porosity hair!

User Opinion: Customers have lauded the Urban Hydration Daily Moisturizer’s ability to deliver intense hydration without weighing the hair down. The product’s efficacy in taming frizz, enhancing shine, and promoting hair health has been a consistent highlight in user reviews.

Opinion of Lippie Hippie’s Editor: Urban Hydration Daily Moisturizer is a testament to the brand’s commitment to natural, effective hair care. The infusion of Honey, Vanilla Bean, and Argan Oil ensures hydration and promotes overall hair health. The brand’s dedication to the community and giving back, as evidenced by their clean water donations, further elevates the product’s appeal.

Overall, Urban Hydration Daily Moisturizer is a top choice for those seeking an all-natural hair hydration and repair solution. Its unique formulation promises surface-level beauty and deep-rooted hair health, ensuring users get the best of both worlds.

Where can I buy it? Amazon | Ulta | Walmart

Best Gel for Low Porosity Hair

OUIDAD Advanced Climate Control Heat & Humidity Gel

OUIDAD introduces the Advanced Climate Control Heat & Humidity Gel, an award-winning, crunch-free gel designed for curly hair. The gel is infused with ceramides, defining curls and offering a touchable, flexible hold. It’s meticulously formulated to lock in moisture and combat humidity, ensuring that your rings remain defined, hydrated, and free from frizz, regardless of the weather conditions.

The unique feature of Advanced Climate Control Gel for low porosity hair is its Anti-Frizz Nano Technology. This innovative technology, combined with sericin (a protein derived from silk), forms an invisible barrier that effectively blocks out humidity, a common culprit for frizz in low porosity hair. The term “Nano” refers to the minuscule size of the molecules, allowing them to penetrate the hair cuticle deeply, ensuring maximum frizz protection and shine.

Additional Benefits for Low Porosity Hair:

• Anti-Frizz Nano Technology: Provides a barrier against humidity, ensuring frizz-free curls.
•  Sulfate and Paraben-Free: Ensures gentle care, keeping the hair’s natural oils intact.
•  Soft & Flexible Hold: Ensures curls remain defined without feeling crunchy or weighed down.
•  Sericin Silk Protein: Enhances the hair’s natural shine and resilience, perfect for low porosity hair that seeks added luster.

Packaging: 8.5 fl. oz (251 ml)

User Opinion: Users have consistently praised the OUIDAD Advanced Climate Control Gel for maintaining curl definition in even humid conditions. The lightweight, non-crunchy finish has been a standout feature, with many noting the enhanced shine and hydration their curls experience.

Opinion of Lippie Hippie’s Editor: OUIDAD’s Advanced Climate Control Gel is a testament to the brand’s dedication to curly hair care. Its unique formulation, especially the Anti-Frizz Nano Technology, sets it apart for those battling humidity-induced frizz. The brand’s commitment to using natural ingredients, like sericin, further solidifies its position as a top choice for curl enthusiasts.

Overall: For those with curly hair, especially low porosity, the OUIDAD Advanced Climate Control Gel offers a solution beyond mere styling. It promises protection against environmental aggressors, ensuring that curls remain defined, shiny, and, most importantly, frizz-free. With its unique formulation, users can expect a product that caters to the challenges of maintaining curly hair in humid conditions.

Where can I buy it? Amazon | Ulta | Walmart

Best Curl Cream for Low Porosity Hair

SEEN Curl Defining Styling Hair Cream

SEEN Curly Creme is a dermatologist-developed, fragrance-free, vegan hair cream explicitly designed to maximize the potential of your curls without leaving them feeling “crunchy.” This non-comedogenic formula ensures that while your hair gets the care it needs, your skin remains clear and unaffected.

The unique feature of SEEN Curly Creme for low porosity hair is its ability to lock in moisture and protect against external aggressors like UV rays, pollution, and heat up to 450º Fahrenheit (232 °C). This ensures that low-porosity hair, which often struggles to retain moisture, remains hydrated, protected, and frizz-free.

Additional Benefits for Low Porosity Hair:

• Heat Protection: Shields hair from damage up to 450º Fahrenheit (232 °C), ensuring hair remains healthy.
•  UV and Pollution Defense: Protects hair from environmental factors that can dry out low-porosity hair.
•  Frizz Control: Reduces the chances of moisture escaping, keeping hair smooth.
•  Safe Ingredients: Sulfate-free, paraben-free, and fragrance-free, ensuring gentle care for sensitive scalps and low porosity hair.

Packaging: 6 fl. oz (177 ml)

User Opinion: Users have been vocal about the transformative effects of SEEN Curly Creme on their curls. The consistent feedback revolves around the cream’s ability to define curls without leaving a residue or a “crunchy” feel. The added benefit of skin protection has also been a highlight for many.

Opinion of Lippie Hippie’s Editor: SEEN Curly Creme is a game-changer in hair care. Developed by a Harvard-trained dermatologist, its unique formula addresses hair and skin needs, a rarity in the industry. The emphasis on clean, non-irritating ingredients makes it a top pick for those with sensitive skin and low-porosity hair.

Overall: SEEN Curly Creme is more than just a styling product; it’s a comprehensive hair care solution. For those with low porosity hair, this cream offers the dual benefit of moisturizing the hair while protecting it from environmental aggressors. Users can expect healthier, shinier, and more defined curls with its clean and skin-friendly formula.

Where can I buy it? Amazon | Ulta | Walmart

Best Hair Mask for Low Porosity Hair

tgin Rose Water Hydrating Hair Mask

tgin Rose Water Hydrating Hair Mask is a revitalizing hair treatment formulated with natural rose water. This mask is designed to breathe life into curls, waves, and especially low porosity hair, ensuring they remain hydrated, nourished, and frizz-free.

The unique feature of tgin Rose Water Hair Mask for low porosity hair is its unique blend of proteins, healthy fats, and essential vitamins. These ingredients work synergistically to penetrate deep into the hair shaft, ensuring moisture is locked in, and hair remains soft and tangle-free.

Additional Benefits for Low Porosity Hair:

• Vitamin Infusion: Packed with Vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and B3 that nourish the hair from within.
•  Omega Boost: Contains Omegas 3, 6, and 9, which strengthen and support the hair shaft.
•  Natural Ingredients: Free from sulfates, parabens, petrolatum, lanolin, and artificial colors.
•  Lightweight Moisture: Designed to hydrate without causing product buildup, ideal for low porosity hair.

Packaging: 12 fl. oz (355 ml)

User Opinion: Customers have consistently praised the tgin Rose Water Hydrating Hair Mask for its ability to transform dry and damaged hair. The mask’s deep moisturizing properties and lightweight formula have made it a favorite among those with low porosity hair.

Opinion of Lippie Hippie’s Editor: tgin has truly outdone itself with the Rose Water Hydrating Hair Mask. Its commitment to using natural ingredients and its focus on addressing the unique needs of low porosity hair makes this product standout. The added emphasis on being a women-owned, Black-owned business further adds to its authenticity and appeal.

Overall: The tgin Rose Water Hydrating Hair Mask is a must-have for anyone with low porosity hair. Its unique formulation ensures that hair remains moisturized, soft, and tangy-free. With its natural ingredients and commitment to quality, users can expect a product that works and respects their hair’s nature.

Where can I buy it? Amazon | Ulta | Walmart

Best Sculp Scrub for Low Porosity Hair

Nexxus Scalp Scrub Hair Treatment

Nexxus Sulfate-Free Scalp Scrub Hair Treatment is a premium exfoliating treatment designed to cleanse and purify the scalp and hair gently. This scrub removes residue and build-up and nourishes and revitalizes, ensuring a balanced and healthy scalp environment.

The unique feature of Nexxus Scalp Scrub for low porosity hair is its ProteinFusion blend, which combines elastin protein and marine minerals. This unique combination ensures that hair remains smooth while detoxifying and rebalancing the scalp, making it an ideal choice for those with low porosity hair.

Additional Benefits for Low Porosity Hair:

• Deep Cleansing: Effectively exfoliates and removes product and oil build-up from the scalp.
•  Nourishing Formula: Infused with essential nutrients to rejuvenate and strengthen hair.
•  Natural Ingredients: Free from sulfates, dyes, parabens, and silicones, ensuring a gentle yet effective treatment.
•  Salon-Quality Care: Crafted with proteins extracted from nature’s finest ingredients for optimal hair health.

Packaging: 11.25 fl. oz (332 ml)

User Opinion: Users have expressed satisfaction with the Nexxus Scalp Scrub’s ability to deeply cleanse without stripping the hair of its natural oils. Those with low porosity hair have particularly appreciated the scrub’s gentle exfoliation and nourishing properties.

Opinion of Lippie Hippie’s Editor: Nexxus has once again showcased its expertise in hair care with the Sulfate-Free Scalp Scrub. Its commitment to using quality ingredients and its focus on addressing the unique needs of low porosity hair make this product a standout. The added benefit of being free from harmful chemicals further elevates its appeal.

Overall: The Nexxus Sulfate-Free Scalp Scrub Hair Treatment is a game-changer for those with low porosity hair. Its dual action of cleansing and nourishing ensures that the scalp remains healthy and hair retains its natural shine and vitality. This product is a must-have for those seeking a deep cleanse without compromising on nourishment.

Where can I buy it? Amazon | Ulta | Walmart

Best Mousse for Low Porosity Hair

Keranique Hair Mousse for All Hair Types

Keranique Volumizing Hair Mousse is a transformative styling foam designed to elevate every hair type’s volume, texture, and overall appearance. This mousse delivers a bouncy and revitalized look, whether you have fine, straight, wavy, or curly hair.

The unique feature of Keranique Hair Mousse for low porosity hair is its enriched Keratin Amino Complex. This proprietary blend moisturizes, strengthens, and thickens the hair, ensuring a lustrous and rejuvenated appearance without weighing it down.

Additional Benefits for Low Porosity Hair:

• Instant Volume & Fullness: Achieve a bouncy and voluminous look effortlessly.
•  Lightweight Formula: No heavy residue or greasy feel, ensuring hair remains light and airy.
•  Heat Protection: Safe to use before blow-drying, protecting hair from potential heat damage.
•  Nourishing Ingredients: Infused with Keratin Amino Acids, Silk Amino Acids, and Collagen Amino Acids for optimal hair health.

Packaging: 3.4 fl. oz (100 ml)

User Opinion: Users have lauded the mousse for its ability to provide instant volume without the sticky residue. The lightweight formula has been a hit among those with fine and low porosity hair, with many appreciating the added benefits of heat protection and nourishment.

Opinion of Lippie Hippie’s Editor: Keranique’s Volumizing Hair Mousse stands out for its volumizing capabilities and nourishing properties. The Keratin Amino Complex is a testament to the brand’s commitment to hair health. The mousse’s ability to provide volume without weighing down the hair makes it a top choice for those with low porosity hair.

Overall: Keranique Volumizing Hair Mousse is a must-have for those seeking volume, nourishment, and protection in one product. Its unique formula ensures that hair looks fuller and feels healthier and more vibrant. For those with low porosity hair, this mousse offers the added benefit of deep nourishment without the heaviness.

Where can I buy it? Amazon | Ulta | Walmart

How to Choose a Product for Low Porosity Hair?

Choosing the right products for low porosity hair is all about understanding the ingredients. You’ll want to look for humectants like glycerin, honey, and aloe vera, which help draw moisture into the hair. Lightweight oils such as jojoba, argan, and sweet almond are also beneficial as they can penetrate the hair shaft without weighing it down. It’s a good idea to pick water-based products; a quick check on the ingredient list and if water is at the top, you’re on the right track. Occasionally, you might need clarifying agents like tea tree oil to cleanse without stripping natural oils.

On the flip side, avoid heavy oils and butters like shea butter, coconut oil, and castor oil. They can be too dense and might just sit on your hair, causing buildup. Be cautious with protein-rich products too. While they can be beneficial, using them too often can leave your hair feeling hard. Lastly, watch out for silicones, especially those ending in “-cone” like dimethicone. They can prevent moisture from entering your hair, which is the opposite of what you want for low porosity locks.

Maintenance and Care Tips for Low Porosity Hair

For low porosity hair, it’s recommended to wash your hair once a week or every ten days with a sulfate-free shampoo. Deep condition your hair every two weeks, and consider using gentle heat to help the conditioner penetrate better. Opt for protective hairstyles like braids, twists, or buns to minimize breakage. To combat product buildup, incorporate a clarifying shampoo into your routine once a month. Be cautious with protein treatments as they can make low porosity hair feel stiff; always follow up with a moisturizing conditioner. When drying your hair, either let it air dry or use a microfiber towel. If you’re using heat, always apply a heat protectant and stick to a low setting. After moisturizing, seal in the moisture with light oils like jojoba or argan. Lastly, get regular trims every 8-12 weeks to keep split ends at bay.

Conclusion

Low porosity hair, with its unique structure and challenges, requires specialized care to maintain its health and shine. Products like SEEN Curly Creme, tgin Rose Water Hydrating Hair Mask, Nexxus Scalp Scrub, and Keranique Volumizing Hair Mousse have been meticulously crafted to address the specific needs of this hair type. Each product has benefits, from deep hydration to protection against environmental stressors. As we’ve explored, the right products can make a difference, transforming unresponsive locks into vibrant, nourished tresses. Whether you’re seeking to define your curls, add volume, or maintain the health of your hair, these products offer promising solutions. Embrace the beauty of your low porosity hair and let it shine with the best care available.

Author of this article: Aida Turner

Founder & Hair Care Consultant

Aida is a cosmetologist and hair care consultant with over 7 years of experience in the beauty industry. Aida has worked with various top salons and smaller hair care brands, offering her product development, formulation, and testing expertise.

Her extensive knowledge of hair care ingredients and their effects on hair health enables her to provide thorough, well-researched, and unbiased reviews on a wide range of shampoos and hair care products. In her spare time, Aida enjoys experimenting with new hair care routines, blogging about her experiences, and helping others achieve their hair goals.

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