Low porosity hair is a type of hair that has difficulty absorbing and retaining moisture. This is due to the tightness of the cuticle layer, which doesn’t allow for optimal hydration. Low porosity hair can be identified by its shiny, sleek appearance and its inability to hold a curl or wave. It can be difficult to style and often feels dry and straw-like.
Causes of low porosity hair
Low porosity hair is a common issue that can be caused by many different things. Below are some of the most common causes of low porosity hair.
One of the most common causes of low porosity hair is chemical processing. When hair is processed with chemicals, like relaxers or color, the outer layer of the hair shaft is damaged. This damage can cause the hair to become more porous, which makes it difficult for products to penetrate and moisturize the hair shaft.
Another common cause of low porosity hair is excessive heat styling. When you use hot tools like flat irons and curling irons on your hair, you’re actually damaging the outer layer of the hair shaft. This damage can make the hair more porous and cause it to be less hydrated.
Effects of low porosity hair
Low porosity hair is hair that has a smaller than average pore size. This can be caused by the cuticle being too tight, which reduces the amount of moisture that can enter and exit the hair shaft. As a result, low porosity hair is more prone to dryness and frizziness. The good news is that there are plenty of ways to combat these issues, including using moisturizing shampoos and conditioners, using a deep conditioning treatment once a week, and using a serum or oil to seal in moisture.
How to diagnose low porosity hair
Hair porosity is the measure of how well your hair absorbs and retains moisture. Low porosity hair is difficult to absorb and retain moisture, which can lead to dry, brittle hair. If you are experiencing these symptoms, there are a few ways you can diagnose and treat low porosity hair. The first step is to visit your dermatologist or hairstylist for a professional diagnosis. They will be able to test your hair’s porosity and recommend a course of treatment. There are also home tests you can do to help determine whether you have low porosity hair. One way is to fill a glass with room-temperature water and drop a strand of your hair into the water. If it sinks quickly, your hair has high porosity; if it floats or takes a long time to sink, then it has low porosity.
How to grow low porosity hair
If you have low porosity hair, you know that it can be a challenge to keep your hair hydrated and moisturized. The cuticles on the surface of your hair are tightly closed, which means that moisture and oils cannot penetrate the hair shaft as easily as they can with other hair types. But with the right techniques, you can grow long, healthy low porosity hair.
One of the most important things you can do is to use a clarifying shampoo and deep-conditioning treatment once a week. A clarifying shampoo from brands like mielle will help to remove any build-up on your scalp and hair shaft that might be preventing moisture from penetrating your hair. A deep-conditioning treatment will help to add moisture and nutrients back into your hair.
You should also avoid using heavy oils and products that are high in silicone.
