Conditioner for low porosity hair is a game changer. Low porosity hair has closed cuticles. It struggles to absorb moisture.
Many conditioners don’t work well. The right conditioner can transform this hair type. A large number of people are unaware of their hair porosity.
This article dives deep into the best conditioners for those with low-porosity hair. Learn how to pick the best one for you.
Best Conditioners for Low-Porosity Hair
Discover our top picks for conditioners designed for low-porosity hair. These products will help you tackle common issues associated with this hair type.
They ensure your locks stay hydrated, healthy, and manageable.
Best Overall
Best for Damaged Hair
Best for Frizzy Hair
tgin Rose Water Frizz-Free Hydrating Conditioner for Curls – Waves
Best Conditioner Bar
Pacific Spirit Conditioner Bar with Almond Oil, Light Honey Scent
Best for Colored Hair
Best for Smoothening
Best for Hydrating
Best for Hair Protection
Best for Oil Control
Naturél Boost Volumizing Conditioner Bar for Fine or Oily Hair
Best for Daily Conditioning
SheaMoisture Conditioner Curl and Shine Silicone Free for Curly Hair Coconut Hibiscus Moisturize & Define 13oz
Enhance your curls and say goodbye to frizz with SheaMoisture’s Coconut & Hibiscus Curl and Shine Conditioner.
What we like
- Lightweight and non-greasy formula
- Detangles and softens hair
- Produced with sustainability in mind and cruelty-free
SheaMoisture’s Coconut & Hibiscus Curl and Shine Conditioner is a silicone-free product. It is perfect for those with curly hair who are striving to achieve smooth, defined curls.
This conditioner offers a unique blend of:
- Coconut & Neem Oils
- Silk Protein
- Fair Trade Shea Butter
It provides intense moisture and nourishing hydration to dry or damaged hair.
SheaMoisture’s Coconut & Hibiscus Curl and Shine Conditioner has high client satisfaction. It has a 4.6 rating and over 21,000 reviews and is a popular choice for those looking to enhance their curly hair.
Carol’s Daughter Almond Milk Restoring Conditioner
This conditioner is ideal for those seeking to repair and restore their low-porosity hair from daily damage.
What we like
- Softens and restores damaged hair
- Strengthens and protects hair
- Paraben, petroleum, and mineral oil-free
Carol’s Daughter Almond Milk Restoring Conditioner reverses the damage caused by:
- Heat-styling tools
- Coloring
- Harsh environmental aggressors
Its potent blend of almond milk and aloe butter not only restores weakened and over-processed hair but also reduces signs of damage.
Safe for daily use, it offers gentle nourishment for your low-porosity hair. this conditioner leaves it supple and full of life.
This restorative conditioner will not only leave your hair feeling silky and soft, but it will also protect it from future damage.
With a 4.6-star rating from over 788 reviews, it is clear that users are seeing positive results.
tgin Rose Water Frizz-Free Hydrating Conditioner for Curls – Waves
This conditioner will provide lightweight moisture and frizz control. It’s ideal for individuals with low-porosity or fine hair.
What we like
- Lightweight formula, perfect for low-porosity hair
- Contains rose water for added hydration and frizz control
- Promotes hair growth and reduces dandruff
Utilizing natural rose water, this product:
- Provides frizz-free volume
- Defines curls
- Increases hydration
Rich in antioxidants and vitamins A, C, D, E, and B3, rose water calms frizz, reduces oiliness, and promotes hair growth.
Customers who have used the product find it helpful for hair types including 4C textured hair. It adds moisture and softness to dry strands.
tgin Rose Water Frizz-Free Hydrating Conditioner is a great option for those looking for a lightweight product.
Pacific Spirit Conditioner Bar with Almond Oil, Light Honey Scent
This conditioner bar is a good choice for eco-conscious individuals with low-porosity hair.
What we like
- Zero-waste and eco-friendly
- Suitable for various hair types, including low-porosity, curly, and fine hair
- Concentrated formula that lasts for approximately 100 washes
This vegan and zero-waste conditioner bar contains almond oil and a light honey scent. It is eco-friendly and ocean-conscious.
What sets this product apart is its unique combination of natural ingredients that makes it safe for colored hair and daily use. You can expect your hair to look and feel conditioned.
Despite its many advantages, the conditioner bar may not work as well for those with very greasy hair.
The scent of the bar might not be everyone’s cup of tea and some users found their hair to be frizzy after using it.
#mydentity MyConfidant Conditioner
Discover vibrant and shiny hair with #mydentity MyConfidant Conditioner, ideal for color-treated and low-porosity locks.
What we like
- Enhances color vibrancy with VibraRiche Technology
- Provides 2x shine and prolongs color intensity
- Imparts body and texture to hair
The #mydentity MyConfidant Conditioner is a great choice for those with color-treated, low-porosity hair. Its advanced VibraRiche Technology works to give your hair an enriched color. It also gives it a stunning shine that lasts longer than usual.
With its unique formula, this conditioner takes care of your color and adds body and texture to your hair.
Its gentle formula detangles your locks. It ensures that your hair remains smooth and manageable.
tgin Triple Moisture Replenishing Conditioner
This conditioner is ideal for anyone struggling with low-porosity hair in need of extra moisture and healthier hair.
What we like
- Vibrant hair
- Restores moisture and improves hair health
- Exceptional moisturizer for various hair types
This Thank God It’s Natural Triple Moisture Replenishing Conditioner contains:
- Shea Butter
- Argan Oil
- Jojoba Oil
These ingredients:
- Promote new hair growth
- Ease inflammation
- Prevent hair loss
- Protect against heat
- Tame frizz and flyaways
The conditioner is well-suited for both men and women and works to moisturize various types of hair. This includes straight, curly, or color-treated hair.
SheaMoisture Intensive Hydration Conditioner
Get soft, hydrated hair with this moisture-rich conditioner, perfect for reviving low-porosity locks.
What we like
- Intensive hydration for dry, damaged hair
- Key ingredients: Manuka Honey, Mafura Oil, Fig Extract
- Sulfate-free, paraben-free, and cruelty-free
This conditioner is perfect for low-porosity hair, as it helps to improve manageability, leaving your hair:
- Soft
- Shiny
- Easy to style
This sulfate-free conditioner detangles your hair while nourishing and softening it. The blend of restorative oils offers a soothing hair care experience that leaves your hair feeling refreshed.
Pureology Hydrate Moisturizing Conditioner
This conditioner is an excellent choice for those seeking to hydrate while maintaining color vibrancy.
What we like
- Hydrates dry hair in depth
- Sulfate-free and vegan
- Designed for medium to thick color-treated hair
The Pureology Hydrate Moisturizing Conditioner caters to the needs of medium to thick, color-treated hair. This powerful formula provides deep hydration, softness, and protection for your dry hair. This makes it an ideal choice for those struggling with low-porosity locks.
You can use it without worrying about stripping away your hair color or causing any further damage.
The 4.7-star rating, and over 13,000 reviews, show that many customers recognize the effectiveness of this product.
Naturél Boost Volumizing Conditioner Bar for Fine or Oily Hair
This conditioner bar is perfect for those with fine or oily hair who want an eco-friendly option for added volume and nourishment.
What we like
- Adds volume and shine to fine or oily hair
- Reduces plastic waste and carbon footprint
- Long-lasting, equal to 2-3 16oz bottles of conditioner
The Naturél Boost Volumizing Conditioner Bar is great for individuals with fine or oily hair. Made with ingredients like lime and litsea oils, it boosts volume. It also retains moisture, giving your hair the oomph it needs.
Users also appreciate the smooth, non-greasy finish provided by the inclusion of extra virgin olive and jojoba oils.
This conditioner has a longer lifespan compared to regular liquid conditioners. By lasting as long as 2-3 16oz bottles of conditioner, it reduces the carbon footprint of your hair care routine.
Jessicurl Too Shea! Extra Moisturizing Conditioner
Ideal for those seeking daily hydration for dry, curly hair without added fragrance.
What we like
- Certified gluten-free, vegan, and cruelty-free
- Free of sulfates, silicones, and drying alcohols
- Works well for low-porosity hair
Dry curls often need extra care, and Jessicurl Too Shea! Extra Moisturizing Conditioner offers that. This conditioner ensures that your curls receive the moisture they need to thrive.
It’s made in the USA and ensures quality by avoiding harsh chemicals that might damage your hair.
Being certified gluten-free, vegan, and cruelty-free, it ensures an ethical approach to hair care.
The absence of sulfates, silicones, and drying alcohols reduces the risk of damaging your hair.
What is Low-Porosity Hair?
Low-porosity hair has cuticles that overlap in a tight manner. This makes it harder for moisture and other hair treatments to penetrate your hair strands.
Hair porosity refers to its ability to absorb liquid. In low-porosity hair, this ability has its limitations. Your hair might take longer to wash and dry.
Compared to other hair porosity types, products may accumulate on the surface of low-porosity hair instead of penetrating it.
| Characteristic | Low Porosity Hair | Medium Porosity Hair | High Porosity Hair |
|---|---|---|---|
| Structure | Tight cuticle layers. | Moderate cuticle layers. | Loose or damaged cuticle layers. |
| Moisture Retention | Difficult to moisturize; retains moisture once achieved. | Balances moisture retention and absorption. | Absorbs moisture easily but struggles with retention. |
| Using Conditioner | Requires heat for better absorption. Lightweight conditioners preferred. | Accepts regular conditioners. | Needs deep conditioners or protein treatments. |
Does Low-Porosity Hair Need Conditioner?
Yes, low-porosity hair needs a conditioner to maintain moisture and hydration. Your hair has difficulty absorbing water. Using a conditioner in your hair care routine is essential.
By applying conditioner, you help lock in moisture. This makes it easier for your low-porosity hair to keep hydration.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Choose lightweight, water-based conditioners to avoid buildup.
- Look for humectants like glycerin and honey, which attract and keep moisture.
- Use conditioners as part of your hair care routine.
Regular vs. Deep Conditioners for Low-Porosity Hair
When it comes to low-porosity hair, regular conditioners and deep conditioners have different roles.
Here are the similarities between regular and deep conditioners:
- Both help in providing moisture to the hair.
- They contain ingredients like natural oils and proteins.
- Both types can be found in various price ranges.
Here are the differences between regular and deep conditioners:
| Aspect | Regular Conditioners | Deep Conditioners |
|---|---|---|
| Usage | Used after shampooing and rinsed out within minutes. | Left in hair for at least 30 minutes before rinsing. |
| Consistency & Nourishment | Lighter consistency that provides nourishment without build-up. | Thicker consistency and provides intense nourishment. |
| Frequency of Use | Ideal for daily or frequent use. | Used once a week or less frequently, depending on hair needs. |
The Role of Leave-in Conditioners
A leave-in conditioner for low-porosity hair provides extra moisture and nourishment. This helps fight dryness and breakage.
When you apply a leave-in conditioner, it coats your hair cuticle. This locks in moisture and makes the hair shaft smooth.
For low-porosity hair, use water-based or light lotion conditioners and leave-ins. These products work well with the unique structure of your hair. They help it absorb moisture more effectively.
Note that low-porosity hair doesn’t always absorb nutrients from leave-in conditioners.
DIY Low-porosity Hair Conditioner Options
Low-porosity hair can be tricky to manage, but homemade conditioners are a great option for you. They’re easy to make and use natural ingredients to suit your hair’s needs. Here are some DIY options for you to try:
- Egg, coconut milk, and olive oil mix
- Aloe vera and honey
Egg, Coconut Milk, and Olive Oil Mix
Whip up:
- Two eggs
- Three tablespoons of coconut milk
- Two tablespoons of olive oil
- A few pumps of your favorite conditioner.
Apply it to your wet hair and leave it on for 20-30 minutes before rinsing.
Aloe Vera and Honey
Blend equal parts of aloe vera gel and honey to create a smooth consistency. Apply it to your hair, leave it on for 30 minutes, and then rinse it off.
Aloe vera and honey provide hydration and smoothness, making them ideal for low-porosity hair.
Ingredients To Look for in Conditioners for Low-Porosity Hair
When choosing a conditioner for your low-porosity hair, it’s essential to find the right ingredients. These will help your hair absorb and retain moisture without weighing it down.
Some key ingredients to look for include:
- Honey: This natural humectant draws moisture into your hair.
- Glycerin: Also a humectant, glycerin helps to hydrate and retain moisture.
- Aloe Vera: Known for its soothing properties, aloe vera can moisturize and add shine.
- Avocado Oil: This lightweight oil penetrates the hair shaft, providing deep hydration.
- Shea Butter: As a natural emollient, shea butter seals in moisture.
- Jojoba Oil: Its similarity to your scalp’s natural oils ensures easy absorption.
- Coconut Oil: This versatile oil promotes shine and moisture.
- Argan Oil: Argan oil softens and tames frizz while adding a healthy glow.
- Amino Acids: They strengthen hair, reduce damage, and improve moisture retention.
- Vitamin B5 (Panthenol): Helps to moisturize and improve hair’s elasticity.
Ingredients to Avoid in Low-Porosity Hair Conditioners
When choosing a conditioner for low-porosity hair, avoid ingredients that can weigh down your hair or cause buildup. Low-porosity hair needs lightweight moisturizers and easy absorption for hydration.
Here are the ingredients to avoid for low-porosity hair in your conditioner:
- Waxy substances: Heavy waxes like beeswax or paraffin can cause buildup in low-porosity hair.
- Heavy oils: Some oils like mineral oil, lanolin, or petroleum can weigh down your hair.
- Silicones: While some silicones can be helpful, others, like dimethicone, can contribute to buildup.
How To Apply Conditioners On Low-Porosity Hair
Here is how to apply conditioner on low-porosity hair:
- Dampen your hair with water.
- Wet hair helps the conditioner penetrate the hair shaft with ease.
- Apply a thick-textured conditioner suitable for your curl pattern and curly hair type.
- Distribute it on your hair strands evenly.
Here’s a list of tips to enhance the application of conditioner on low-porosity hair:
- Use heat
- Be patient
- Choose lightweight styling products
- avoid overloading on hair care
Use Heat
Applying heat helps open the cuticles, allowing for better absorption of the conditioner. You can use indirect heat with a hooded dryer or apply direct heat using a hair steamer.
Be Patient
It might take longer for the conditioner to work on low-porosity hair due to the closed cuticles. Allow ample time for it to penetrate.
Choose Lightweight Styling Products
They can nourish and moisturize your hair without causing any build-up.
Avoid overloading on hair care
Stick to a simple and effective routine. Using too many products might lead to product build-up and limit the conditioner’s efficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions
What shampoo and conditioner pairs work well for low-porosity hair?
Finding the right shampoo and conditioner pair for low-porosity hair is essential to maintain healthy hair. For low-porosity hair, it’s crucial to use products that can penetrate the hair shaft. Look for shampoos and conditioners with lightweight oils, such as grapeseed oil, jojoba oil, or argan oil.
Which 4c hair conditioners are effective for low-porosity hair?
4c hair refers to coiled, kinky hair with a more fragile texture. When looking for conditioners for 4c low-porosity hair, focus on deep hydration and moisture. Some conditioners suitable for 4c low-porosity hair are TGIN’s Triple Moisture Replenishing Conditioner and Kinky-Curly Knot Today Leave-In Conditioner. These products detangle the hair. They provide the necessary moisture and nutrients to maintain healthy 4c hair.
Can I skip using conditioner on low-porosity hair?
No, it is not recommended to skip using conditioner on low-porosity hair. Conditioner helps to lock in the moisture and nutrients in the hair after shampooing. Omitting conditioner makes low-porosity hair more vulnerable to dryness and breakage.
