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Tips for Nurturing Low Porosity Natural Hair
Have you ever wondered why some people’s hair seems to absorb moisture like a sponge while others struggle to keep their locks hydrated? The answer is hair porosity and it plays a significant role in the health and vitality of your natural hair.
What is Hair Porosity?
Hair porosity refers to your hair’s ability to absorb and retain moisture and products. It’s primarily determined by the condition of your hair’s cuticle layer, the outermost protective layer of each hair strand. Hair can have one of three porosity types:
- Low Porosity: Hair with low porosity has tightly sealed cuticles. This makes it resistant to absorbing moisture and products, often resulting in dryness and product buildup..
- Normal Porosity: Hair with normal porosity has cuticles that are neither too tightly sealed nor too open. It can absorb and retain moisture reasonably well.
- High Porosity: Hair with high porosity has raised cuticles, allowing it to quickly absorb moisture but struggle to retain it. High porosity hair often experiences dryness, frizz, and breakage.
Identifying Low Porosity Hair:
- Water beads up on the hair’s surface when wet.
- It takes a long time for the hair to become saturated when submerged in water.
- Hair often feels dry even after conditioning.
Here’s a few low porosity hair care tips:
Use Warm Water: Start your hair care routine with warm water. It helps to open the cuticles slightly, making it easier for moisture to penetrate.
Choose Lightweight, Water-Based Products: Look for leave-in conditioners, stylers, and moisturizers that are water-based. These are lighter and better absorbed by low porosity hair.
Use the LCO or LOC Method: These methods help lock in moisture. Try the Liquid-Cream-Oil (LCO) or Liquid-Oil-Cream (LOC) method to see which works best for you.
Avoid Heavy Oils: Heavy oils like castor oil can sit on the hair’s surface. Opt for lighter options like jojoba or argan oil.
Protect Your Hair at Night: Use a satin or silk pillowcase and a satin bonnet to protect your hair while you sleep. These materials reduce friction and help retain moisture.
Stay Hydrated and Eat Well: Good hair health starts from within. Drink water and maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals.
