When it comes to hair care products and services, there is a difference between one โsizeโ and the next. Understanding how to moisturize and nourish low-porosity hair can often seem like a riddle. It takes time and extra effort because low porosity hairโs cuticle layer does not allow the elements, including oils and other products, easily. If you have felt your hair dry or your products tend to lay flat, do not worry! Below are 15 Low Porosity Hair Oil Tips.
Understanding Low Porosity Hair
Low porosity hair has a tightly shut layer called the cuticle layer that puzzles; hence, it retains moisture and secrete oils. This hair type may also take more time to dry up completely. It also looks shiny and does not stick together, at least initially, causing many to โโthinkโโ it is healthy. But if this is not done, it easily becomes dry and brittle after some usage.
Key Characteristics of Low Porosity Hair
- Slow absorption of moisture
- It is resistant to the accumulation of oil and products.
- Shiny appearance
- Tends to be protein-sensitive
Knowing these characteristics will assist you in finding suitable oils and treatments best suited for you.
Choose Lightweight Oils
As mentioned before, lighter oils that penetrate the hair shaft are advised for low-porosity hair.
Recommended Oils
- Argan Oil: It contains fatty acids and vitamin E and makes hair shiny without leaving it greasy.
- Jojoba Oil: This oil reduces dryness and remains lightweight to mimic the real oils found on the scalp more closely.
- Grapeseed Oil: They have a light consistency that helps seal moisture and minimize on breakages.
Avoid Heavy Oils
- Coconut Oil: Though suitable for many applications, its molecular formation can be all too bulky and accumulate.
- Castor Oil: This oil is heavy and usually stays on the hair’s surface instead of seeping in.
Warm Your Oils
Heating your oils can help increase the chances of penetration into the hair shaft.
How to Warm Oils
- Put your chosen oil in a small bowl and submerge the bowl in the hot water for a few minutes.
- To warm the oil, squeeze it in the palms of both hands and roll it between fingers and palms.
Tip: To check whether you wonโt burn yourself you should do a skin test on your wrist.
Use the LOC Method
The LOC method, an acronym for Liquid, Oil, and Cream, can be an effective strategy for low-porosity hair.
Steps
- Liquid: The base should essentially be water or a leave-in conditioner.
- Oil: Coat lightweight oil over your hair to lock the moisture in.
- Cream: Finally, seal with a lotion or cream for the extra care and definition of curls.
Focus on Scalp Health
The condition of the scalp is instrumental in hair health. Frequent scalp oiling can improve blood circulation and prevent skin dryness.
Tips for Scalp Care
- Massage: Rub the warmed oil onto your scalp in a circular motion. This may cause hair to grow and aid absorption.
- Tea Tree Oil: You can mix several drops of tea tree oil with your usual crude for those with dandruff or scalp itchiness.
ย Avoid Products with Heavy Additives
Reading ingredient labels is essential. Many products contain heavy silicones or waxes that can lead to buildup on low-porosity hair.
Ingredients to Avoid
- It is crucial to read the labels to understand the content and composition of the products.ย
- Most of the products have heavy silicones or waxes that cause accumulation on low porous hair.
Hydrate Before Oil Application
It is also recommended that you make sure your hair is wet before applying the oils. This can aid the absorption process and offer hydration to the body.
Methods to Hydrate
- Use a Hydrating Spray: When shopping for products, focus on those specially formulated for low-porosity hair types.
Incorporate Deep Conditioning
Low-porosity hair does not need frequent deep conditioner treatment but can still be treated with light conditioning agents.
How to Deep Condition
- Use a light conditioner or a deep treatment after washing your hair.
- Secure with a plastic cap and heat with a hood dryer or heat cap for 15 โ 30 minutes.
Tip: Search for products containing heat-activated ingredients to control the hair’s moisture.
Limit Protein Treatments
Low-porosity hair is generally more susceptible to protein treatments. These treatments can cause the joint to become stiff and may even snap.
Signs You Need a Break
- The hair becomes rough and stands upright after undergoing the treatments.
- Struggles to comb or style your hair.
Regularly Clarify
To reduce the accumulation of products, it is important to clarify your hair at some point.
Clarifying Options
- Rinse the hair using a clarifying shampoo that lacks sulfates.
- Diluting apple cider vinegar in water can be another great clarifying agent you can use at home.
How to Clarify
- It is best to use it before deep conditioning to realign your hair’s moisture level.
Experiment with Essential Oils
Using essential oils can also improve the health of your hair and the skin on your head.
Recommended Essential Oils
- Lavender Oil: Popular for its ability to soothe, it may help to unclog the scalp.
- Peppermint Oil: This may help improve blood flow, thus stimulating hair growth.
How to Use
- To make it invigorating, a couple of drops can be mixed with a carrier oil before being applied to the skin.
Be Mindful of Climate
Climate plays a significant role in how hair responds to products. High humidity leads to frizzy hair, while dry, cool climates remove moisture.
Tips for Different Climates
- In Humid Conditions: Choose non-oily gels and light oils to avoid frizzy hair.
- Dry Conditions: Apply the oil more often to seal in moisture.
Consider Protective Styles
Protective styling helps to minimize manipulation and keep your ends hidden.
Styles to Try
- Braid-outs
- Twists
- Bun styles with protective coverings (scarves, nets, or hats)
Stay Consistent
It is advisable to incorporate these tips on hair care in your daily practices to achieve the best results.
Create a Routine
- Choose certain days to do oil treatment or scalp massages.
- Document your hairโs response to oils or products to determine your best routine.
Stay Hydrated Inside and Out
Drinking water also helps support our bodiesโ health and the health of our hair as well.
Keep Hydrated
- Get at least 8-10 glasses of water per day to provide adequate fluids.
- Also include foods containing water such as cucumber, oranges, and watermelons.
Consult a Professional
If youโre ever in doubt or your hair doesnโt respond, consulting with a hair care professional can provide personalized guidance tailored to your needs.
Conclusion
If you were struggling with caring for low porosity hair, now you know you can keep your tresses in the best shape ever. Always keep in mind the principles of choosing lighter products, proper moisture levels, and creating a regimen that will suit your hair. So, whatโs your next step? Will you try one of these tips today and embrace the beautiful journey of caring for your low porosity hair?
