Hair - Hair Type - Porosity

9 Best Deep Conditioners for Low-Porosity Hair

Not sure which deep conditioner for low-porosity hair suits you best? Find out in our comprehensive guide!

Written by Ioana Moldovan
Deep Conditioner for Low-Porosity Hair

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Deep conditioner for low-porosity hair is essential for optimal hair health.

Low-porosity hair has cuticles that lie flat and tight. This makes it challenging to absorb moisture.

Deep conditioners combat this by providing intense hydration. Using the right one can transform your tresses.

In this article, we dive deep into the benefits and best practices. Get ready for hair that shines and bounces with health.

tgin Rose Water Hydrating Hair Mask

This deep conditioner is perfect for those looking for moisture and hydration without weighing their hair down.

What we like

  • Moisturizes and revitalizes dry, damaged hair
  • Free from sulfates, parabens, and artificial colors
  • Suitable for low-porosity hair types

The tgin Rose Water Hydrating Hair Mask is a top-quality deep conditioner designed for low-porosity hair types. It is also suited for curls, waves, or fine hair.

This deep conditioner supports the hair shaft and adds moisture and softness. It lacks sulfates, parabens, or artificial colors. The formula contains vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and B3, along with Omegas 3, 6, and 9.

Mielle Organics Babassu & Mint Deep Conditioner with Protein

Consider this deep conditioner to revitalize your low-porosity hair with impressive results.

What we like

  • Nourishing natural oils and babassu blend for hair strength
  • Suitable for all hair types, including color-treated and low-porosity hair
  • Balances hydration and protein for soft, manageable curls

Its unique formula combines nourishing natural oils with a special blend of babassu. This strengthens hair elasticity while reducing breakage and smoothing frizz and flyaways.

The rich revitalizes dry, damaged hair. It also helps to manage various hair types, including curly and color-treated hair.

tgin Rose Water Frizz-Free Hydrating Conditioner

This conditioner is an excellent choice for those searching for light hydration and frizz control.

What we like

  • Lightweight, suitable for low-porosity hair
  • Contains rose water for added benefits
  • No harsh ingredients or testing on animals

With this lightweight formula, you won’t experience heavy buildup or weighed-down locks. The inclusion of rose water adds antioxidants and vitamins. These are essential for:

  • Nourishing your hair
  • Calming frizz
  • Reducing oiliness
  • Promoting hair growth.

Camille Rose Algae Renew Deep Conditioning Mask

This deep conditioning mask is perfect for anyone in search of a nourishing treatment for low-porosity hair.

What we like

  • Vitamin-packed blue-green algae promote hair growth and strength
  • Intense moisture provided by mango butter
  • Contains natural ingredients beneficial to hair and scalp health

The Camille Rose Algae Renew Deep Conditioning Mask contains blue-green algae. These algae are famous for their high protein content and amino acids.

This unique formula promotes hair growth and strength. It also moisturizes your hair with the help of mango butter. The natural ingredients, such as aloe, coconut oil, and cocoa butter, provide added benefits for both your hair and scalp.

EDEN BodyWorks Jojoba Monoi Deep Conditioner

This deep conditioner is a great choice for low-porosity hair, providing moisture, strength, and manageability.

What we like

  • Repairs and strengthens hair
  • Ultra-hydrating formula
  • Nourishing and protective ingredients

One noteworthy aspect of this conditioner is its repairing capabilities. The botanical blend of ingredients helps restore hair that suffers from breakage. This makes it stronger, healthier, and more manageable. It is particularly beneficial if your low-porosity hair is prone to dryness and damage.

SheaMoisture Intensive Hydration Hair Masque

This hair mask is great for those seeking deep hydration and intensive conditioning for dry, damaged hair.

What we like

  • Provides intense moisture for dry, damaged hair
  • Fortifies and smooths hair for improved strength and frizz control
  • Ethically traded, sustainably produced, and cruelty-free

This SheaMoisture Intensive Hydration Hair Masque infuses your hair with a powerful dose of moisture and nutrients. This infusion is perfect for individuals with low-porosity hair, especially curly hair. The masque contains:

  • Shea Butter
  • Honey
  • Mafura
  • Baobab Oils
  • African Rock Fig

These ensure your hair remains conditioned in-depth and healthier.

Soultanicals Afrotastic Curl Elastic (8 oz.)

Give your low-porosity hair a boost of moisture with Soultanicals Afrotastic Curl Elastic.

What we like

  • Excellent slip and moisture
  • Works well on curly hair
  • Smells amazing

This deep conditioner stands out for its ability to provide excellent slip and moisture to low-porosity hair. Customers rave about the amazing scent and the softness it brings to their curly locks. It’s designed for curly hair types, making it easier for you to detangle and style your mane without effort.

Organic World 100ml Brazilian Keratin Smoothing Therapy Hair Treatment Oil

This luxurious leave-in formula is perfect for those seeking to repair and control frizz in their dry, low-porosity hair.

What we like

  • Infused with precious Keratin
  • Controls frizz and adds shine
  • Paraben-free and suitable for dry, frizzy hair

This hair treatment oil is a lightweight and easy-to-use solution for those experiencing dry, frizzy hair. With its paraben-free formula, it helps repair damaged hair and locks in moisture. It leaves your hair with a soft and lustrous finish.

OBIA Naturals Babassu Oil Deep Conditioner

Choose this deep conditioner if you want a protein-free, vegan, and nourishing treatment for your low-porosity hair.

What we like

  • Enriched with Babassu oil, Avocado oil, and Pro-Vitamin B5 for moisturization and strength
  • pH balanced and free of sulfates, silicones, parabens, and artificial colors
  • PETA Cruelty-Free Certified

This product is famous for its ability to moisturize and improve hair texture without weighing it down or causing buildup. The natural and vegan formula is safe for all hair types. This makes it ideal for people with coarse, curly, dry, or normal hair.

What Is Low Porosity Hair?

Low-porosity hair doesn’t absorb water and hair treatments with ease. Imagine your hair as a sponge: the tighter the holes, the more difficult it is for liquids to penetrate it. That’s how low-porosity hair works; it has tight cuticles that make it less absorbent.

The characteristics of low-porosity hair include:

  • Takes longer to become saturated when wet
  • Resistant to absorbing hair products
  • Shiny but may feel dry
  • Difficulty maintaining moisture
  • May be more prone to buildup

To better understand the needs of low-porosity hair, let’s compare it to medium and high-porosity hair.

PorosityCuticlesMoisture BalanceCharacteristics
Low PorosityTight and flat around the cortexHard for moisture and chemicals to penetrateRequires ingredients that can penetrate tight cuticles
Medium Porosity Balanced cuticlesAllows the right amount of moisture to enter while preventing too much from escapingEasier to manage, holds styles well, requires fewer treatments
High PorosityMore open cuticlesMore moisture enters but also leaves quicklyNeeds special care to maintain moisture balance and reduce frizz

How To Test for Low Porosity Hair

How To Test for Low Porosity Hair

To test for low-porosity hair, you’ll need a strand of your hair and a glass of clear water. After you get these, follow these steps:

  • Wash your hair to remove any product build-up, ensuring a more accurate result.
  • Once your hair is clean and dry, pluck a single strand and place it into the glass of water.
  • Wait for two to four minutes, then observe the hair strand.
  • If it’s still floating, this indicates that you have low-porosity hair.
  • If the hair strand sinks or stays in the middle, it may signify higher porosity levels.

Check out our hair porosity quiz!

Is Deep Conditioning Good for Low Porosity Hair?

Yes, deep conditioning can be beneficial for low-porosity hair, especially if you use the right products. Low-porosity hair has a hard time absorbing moisture. You need a deep conditioner that penetrates the cuticles.

When you find the right deep conditioner for low-porosity hair, it helps with moisture retention. Well-hydrated hair is less prone to breakage and damage. This way, your hair stays smoother and healthier.

Role of Protein in Low Porosity Hair Care


Protein is vital for your low-porosity hair. It strengthens the hair shaft, preventing breakage.

When you deep condition, you nourish and hydrate your hair. Including a protein source in your deep conditioner is beneficial. Vegetable proteins work well, as they’re gentle on your hair.

When choosing a deep conditioner, look for products containing protein from plants like soy or wheat. This will help maintain the balance between moisture and strength.

How To Use Deep Conditioners for Low Porosity Hair

To get the most out of deep conditioners for your low-porosity hair, follow these simple steps:

  1. Clarify your hair
  2. Choose the right deep conditioner
  3. Apply the conditioner
  4. Add heat
  5. Rinse and style

1. Clarify Your Hair

Before applying the deep conditioner, wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo. This step removes buildup and helps your hair absorb the conditioner.

2. Choose the Right Deep Conditioner

Select a conditioner that is specifically designed for low-porosity hair. Look for protein-free formulas with moisturizing ingredients.

3. Apply the Conditioner

After washing your hair, section it and apply the deep conditioner from roots to ends.

4. Add Heat

Sit under a hooded dryer for 5-10 minutes with the conditioner in your hair. Use medium to low heat to help the product penetrate your hair cuticles.

5. Rinse and Style

After the heat treatment, rinse your hair and style as usual.

What Can I Use to Deep Condition Low Porosity Hair?

What Can I Use to Deep Condition Low Porosity Hair

For low-porosity hair, deep conditioning ingredients are important. They ensure your hair receives the hydration and nutrients it needs.

Here is a list of the best ingredients to look for in deep conditioners for low-porosity hair:

IngredientDescription
HoneyNatural humectant; hydrates hair.
Shea ButterFatty acids seal moisture; protects hair.
Coconut OilLightweight; moisturizes without heaviness.
Avocado OilNourishes with fatty acids and vitamins.
Amino AcidsStrengthens and promotes hair growth.
Argan OilProtects with antioxidants; adds shine.
Sweet Almond OilVitamin-rich; promotes softness and shine.
GlycerinNatural humectant; enhances hydration.
Jojoba OilMimics hair’s natural sebum; balances moisture.
Aloe Vera JuiceHydrates and maintains scalp health.

Consider options certified as organic and containing essential oils. This ensures you’re using products free of harmful chemicals.

Avoiding Common Deep Conditioning Mistakes

When deep conditioning low-porosity hair, you must avoid some common mistakes to achieve the best results:

  • Too much product
  • Skipping detangling
  • Not using heat
  • Rushing the process
  • Ignoring rinse-out

Too Much Product

Applying excessive amounts of deep conditioner can make your hair greasy. Use enough to cover your hair strands without weighing them down., and not more.

Skipping Detangling

Always detangle your hair before applying deep conditioner. This helps the product distribute with ease and prevents knots and tangles.

Not Using Heat

Low-porosity hair benefits from heat during deep conditioning. Consider using a heated shower cap or a hooded dryer to help open the hair cuticles and let the conditioner penetrate better.

Rushing the Process

Give the deep conditioner enough time to work. Leaving it on for at least 20-30 minutes will enhance its effectiveness.

Try not to exceed the recommended duration on the product label to avoid potential negative effects, such as frizz.

Ignoring Rinse-Out

Rinse the deep conditioner from your hair after the treatment is complete. The residue left behind can cause buildup, leading to dull and lifeless hair.

Safety Measures for Deep Conditioning Treatments

When using deep conditioners for low-porosity hair, consider these safety measures:

  • Check heat exposure
  • Manage time well
  • Test for allergies

Check Heat Exposure

Applying heat can help the deep conditioner penetrate your hair better, but be cautious of heat damage. Use a moderate temperature setting on your dryer or heat cap to avoid harming your hair.

Time Management

Don’t leave the deep conditioner on for too long, as it might lead to over-conditioning. Follow the instructions on the product label, usually ranging from 15 to 30 minutes.

Test for Allergies

Perform a patch test on your skin, especially when trying a new product. This helps to avoid potential irritation or an allergic reaction.

Ingredients to Avoid in Low-Porosity Hair Deep Conditioners

When choosing a deep conditioner for your low-porosity hair, there are certain ingredients you should avoid. Here’s a list of ingredients that can harm low-porosity hair and the reasons why:

  1. Sulfates
  2. Heavy oils and butters
  3. Silicones
  4. Alcohol

Sulfates

Sulfates are harsh detergents that strip natural oils from your hair, making it dry and brittle. Avoid deep conditioners with ingredients like sodium lauryl sulfate or sodium laureth sulfate.

Heavy Oils and Butters

Heavy oils like mineral oil and petroleum can weigh down your hair and create a barrier. This makes it difficult for moisture to enter.

Silicones

Avoid ingredients like dimethicone. They cause buildup, weighing down your hair and making it difficult to absorb moisture.

Alcohol

Some types of alcohol, like isopropyl and denatured alcohol, can dry your hair, stripping it of its natural oils and moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should low porosity use deep conditioner?

Low porosity hair requires special care to maintain moisture balance and health. It’s best to condition your low-porosity hair deep once a week. This regular treatment will provide your hair with the extra moisture it needs.

What are some DIY natural deep conditioners for low-porosity hair?

For a DIY natural deep conditioner, try mixing ingredients like avocado, banana, coconut milk, and olive oil. This mixture will provide your hair with essential nutrients and moisture. I will enhance its shine and health.

Is it better to use a hair mask or a deep conditioner for low-porosity hair?

Both hair masks and deep conditioners provide moisture and nourishment to low-porosity hair. The choice depends on your preferences and needs. You may want to experiment with both options to find the one that works best for your hair type.