If you’re like me, you’ve probably tried a gazillion products, hoping to find that magical elixir that turns your hair from meh to mesmerizing. Well, the search ends here!
Low porosity hair can be as stubborn as a cat avoiding bath time—it just doesn’t want to let anything in. But fear not, my bebes, because I’ve curated a list of the crème de la crème of hair oils that will sneak past those tight cuticles and bring hydration back to party in your hair.
We’re talking about oils that are like that lightweight, yet super effective moisturizer; they hydrate without the heaviness. And let’s be real, nobody wants their hair to feel like it’s carrying the weight of the world. We want bounce, we want shine, and we want all the good stuff without any residue that screams ‘I haven’t washed my hair in weeks’ (even if we haven’t, but shh, that’s our little secret).
So, whether you’re a curly-haired queen or have strands straighter than a ruler, I’ve got you covered. From the exotic aisles of Morocco with Argan oil to the sweet Almond oil, we’re about to take a global tour of hair salvation.
So, buckle up, buttercup, because your hair is about to get the royal treatment it deserves.
What is Low Porosity Hair?
Low porosity hair is what you have when your hair cuticles lay flat and tight, making it quite a challenge for moisture to get through. Think of it as a closed door that keeps water and oils out, which means your hair might stay dry and thirsty, even when you’re trying your best to hydrate it. But the upside? Once you manage to get that moisture in, it stays locked in for ages, giving you hydrated, happy hair for longer. So, while it might take a bit more effort to get those cuticles to open up, the results are well worth it – we’re talking soft, shiny, and healthy locks that don’t frizz at the first sign of humidity.
Characteristics Of Low Porosity Hair Type
• Moisture-Resistant: Water and oils tend to sit on top rather than absorb.
• Slow to Dry: Takes longer to air dry compared to other hair types.
• Product Buildup: Prone to accumulating products on the hair surface.
• Chemical Treatment Resistant: Less receptive to hair dyes and similar treatments.
• Low Elasticity: More susceptible to breakage due to lack of flexibility.
• Oily Roots, Dry Ends: Can appear oily at the scalp but dry at the tips.
• Challenging Styling: Because it repels moisture, styling can be a bit tricky.
• Float Test Champion: Tends to float on water, indicating low porosity.
Why it Important to Choose The Right For Low Porosity Hair?
Choosing the right oil is like picking the perfect key that fits into the lock of your hair cuticles. You need oils that are light enough to slip through those tight spaces, non-comedogenic to prevent any pore party fouls, and packed with essential fatty acids to deliver and lock in that precious moisture.
Ok, So we know what is low porosity and it’s characteristic. Let’s explore the best oils for low porosity hair that gets you the hair of your dreams.
1. Argan Oil: (Comedogenic Index: 0)
Argan oil, often referred to as “liquid gold,” is a powerhouse for hair health, hailing from morocco. Here’s why you should embrace it:
• Moisturizes and Conditions: Rich in fatty acids and vitamin E, argan oil lubricates the hair shaft, maintaining moisture. It also adds a protective layer, reducing dryness, frizz, and boosting shine.
• Improves Scalp Health: Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties benefit the scalp, preventing conditions like psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis, which can lead to hair loss.
• Styling and Coloring Protection: The medium-chain fatty acids protect against damage from washing, styling, and heat. It even reduces split ends, promoting thicker, healthier hair.
• Sun Protection: Like a shield, argan oil guards against UV damage, preventing dryness and other sun-induced harm.
2. Jojoba Oil: (Comedogenic Index: 2)
Jojoba oil is a wondrous elixir that closely mimics the natural sebum produced by our scalp. With a comedogenic index of 2, it’s still a safe bet for most individuals.
• Scalp Soother: Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties hydrate and soothe the scalp, reducing dryness, itchiness, and irritation.
• Strengthens and Repairs: Jojoba oil minimizes hair breakage, strengthens strands, and diminishes split ends. It’s a natural protector during styling.
• Hair Growth Support: While not a direct growth stimulant, it prevents damage, ensuring healthier hair growth.
• How to Use: Warm a small amount and apply it to your scalp, massaging gently. Leave it on for a while before washing.
3. Sweet Almond Oil: (Comedogenic Index: 2)
Sweet almond oil is a versatile gem for your hair:
• Softens Hair: As an emollient, it fills gaps in hair cells, resulting in smoother, softer strands.
• Strengthens and Repairs: It reduces breakage, improves elasticity, and combats split ends.
• Promotes Hair Growth: While not a direct growth stimulant, its vitamin E content keeps hair strong and resilient.
• Scalp Health: Almond oil can alleviate dandruff and soothe scalp irritations.
4. Grapeseed Oil: (Comedogenic Index: 1)
Grapeseed oil is a hidden gem for hair care. It’s like that unassuming friend who surprises you with hidden talents.
• Moisturizes and Conditions: Grapeseed oil is a lightweight superhero. It hydrates your scalp, alleviating dandruff and soothing irritation. Plus, it strengthens the hair shaft and promotes a natural shine.
• Hair Growth Booster: With vitamin E, flavonoids, linoleic acid, and OPCs, grapeseed oil is a powerhouse for healthy hair growth. It’s like giving your hair a green smoothie—nourishing from within.
• Heat Protectant: Before styling, apply a few drops to damp hair. Grapeseed oil shields your strands from the heat, ensuring they stay fabulous without the frizz.
5. Amla Oil: (Comedogenic Index: 1)
Amla oil is the secret to hair that gleams like moonlight on a midnight lake. Here’s why it’s your hair’s BFF:
• Scalp Soother: Amla oil soothes your scalp, reducing itchiness and dryness. It’s like a spa day for your head.
• Vitamin C Boost: Amla oil is rich in vitamin C, which supports healthy hair growth. It’s like giving your hair a daily green juice.
• Natural Darkener: Want to reduce premature graying? Amla oil’s antioxidants maintain your hair’s pigmentation. It’s like a magic spell against gray strands.
6. Baobab Oil: (Comedogenic Index: 2)
Baobab oil is like a tall glass of water for thirsty hair. It’s brimming with vitamins and omega fatty acids that deeply penetrate the hair shaft, providing much-needed moisture without weighing down your delicate strands.
• Nourishment and Conditioning: Baobab oil’s essential fatty acids (omega-3 and omega-6) pamper your hair, leaving it shiny and lustrous. It’s like a spa day for your locks.
• Improved Texture: Say goodbye to rough hair. Baobab oil enhances hair texture, making it smoother and more manageable. Frizz? Not on its watch!
• Protection Against Environmental Stress: Those antioxidants in baobab oil? They shield your hair from pollution and UV radiation. It’s like a superhero cape for your strands.
7. Apricot Kernel Oil: (Comedogenic Index: 2)
Apricot Kernel oil is a lightweight champion for your hair. It’s particularly beneficial for low porosity hair due to its ability to penetrate and moisturize without leaving a greasy residue.
• Hydration and Softening: Apricot Kernel oil is rich in oleic acid and linoleic acid, which are omega-9 fatty acids that act as excellent emollients. They make the hair and scalp softer and more pliable, sealing in moisture and even drawing small amounts of water from the air to maintain hydration.
• Rich in Vitamins: It’s packed with vitamin A, which is essential for cell rejuvenation and collagen stimulation, and vitamin E, which is crucial for scalp health and preventing oxidative stress that can lead to hair thinning or loss.
• Scalp Health: The anti-inflammatory properties of Apricot Kernel oil can soothe an inflamed scalp, providing relief from dryness and flakiness.
• Promotes Hair Growth: The oil contains nutrients that may stimulate hair growth and prevent hair loss.
Tips and Tricks for Using Apricot Kernel Oil:
• As a Detangler: Apply a few drops to damp hair before combing to ease out knots and improve manageability.
• For Deep Conditioning: Mix with aloe vera gel for a nourishing hair mask. Leave it on for 30 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
• Scalp Massage: Warm the oil and massage it into your scalp to stimulate blood flow and promote hair growth.
• Styling Aid: Use a small amount to tame frizz and add shine without weighing down your hair.
8. Pomegranate Oil: (Comedogenic Index: 1)
Pomegranate seed oil is a hidden gem for hair health. Here’s why it’s a game-changer:
• Moisturizing: Pomegranate seed oil’s fatty acids keep your hair soft and hydrated, reviving dull and dry strands.
• Scalp Strength: It contains punicic acid, which soothes an irritated scalp and has anti-fungal benefits for scalp issues like dandruff.
• Hair Follicle Support: Packed with antioxidants, it protects hair from oxidative stress and improves blood flow to the scalp, promoting healthy hair growth.
9. Safflower Seed Oil: (Comedogenic Index: 1)
Safflower Seed oil is a versatile gem for your hair:
• Hair Growth: Safflower oil is rich in omega-3and omega-6 fatty acids, which are essential for healthy hair growth. These fatty acids nourish and strengthen hair follicles, preventing breakage and promoting thicker strands.
• Prevents Premature Graying: Safflower oil contains compounds that help fight premature graying. It promotes melanin production, keeping your hair naturally dark and vibrant.
• Scalp Health: The oil soothes the scalp, reduces inflammation, and provides relief from itching. It’s a great addition to your hair care routine.
10. Sesame Oil: (Comedogenic Index: 2)
Sesame oil is a powerhouse for your hair and scalp:
• Hair Growth: Sesame oil contains sesamin, which promotes hair growth. It also has essential fatty acids that strengthen hair follicles.
• Scalp Health: The oil soothes and heals the scalp, reducing inflammation and irritation. It’s effective for treating small bald patches or thinning hair.
• Dandruff Control: Sesame oil’s antifungal properties combat dandruff and itching. It’s a natural remedy for scalp health.
11. Fractionated Coconut Oil: (Comedogenic Index: 2-3)
Fractionated coconut oil is a versatile elixir for hair and skin:
• Deep Penetration: Its lightweight texture allows it to penetrate deep into the hair shaft, nourishing and strengthening hair from within.
• Conditioning: Use it as a hair conditioner in the shower or as a leave-in conditioner on damp hair. It leaves your hair looking shiny and healthy.
• Protection: Fractionated coconut oil shields hair from UV damage and environmental stressors, making it a fantastic addition to your hair care routine.
And there you have it – a treasure trove of the finest oils to quench the thirst of your low porosity hair. Each oil we’ve explored is a promise of hydration, strength, and shine, waiting to weave its magic into your strands.
So go ahead, experiment with these liquid luxuries, and find your hair’s perfect match.
