How to Care for High Porosity Hair
High porosity hair can be difficult to manage, mainly due to its unique structure. High porosity hair is described as hair strands that have high levels of gaps, holes and uneven textures in their hair cuticles. This is due to the inability of the cuticle layers to hold moisture, resulting in dryness and absorption of too much water. Despite the challenges of caring for high porosity hair, it is important to nourish your hair with the right products, techniques and routines in order to keep it healthy and looking its best. Read on to find out the best tips and tricks for getting the most out of your high porosity hair!
Choosing the Right Products for High Porosity Hair
The first step in properly caring for high porosity hair is choosing the right products. You’ll want products that are formulated to provide deep moisture, nourishing oils, and gentle conditioners that can penetrate deep into the hair shaft for lasting hydration.
Look for products that contain natural oils such as avocado, sweet almond, and jojoba as these penetrate and lock in moisture to the hair shaft. Coconut oil is an excellent choice as well because it contains lauric acid, which helps to reduce protein loss and repair damage. Also, look for products that contain panthenol, which is a provitamin (B5) derivative known to provide great moisture retention.
It is best to avoid products that contain sulfates, alcohols, and silicones as they will strip the hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and prone to breakage. The less is more approach is the best strategy when it comes to high porosity hair.
Natural Pre-Shampoo Treatments
Pre-shampoo (or pre-poo) treatments are a great way to reduce the friction caused by brushing, which causes high porosity hair to become dry and tangled. Natural pre-poo treatments can take the form of natural oils such as coconut oil, olive oil, avocado oil, or castor oil alone or as an oil blend.
These natural oils help to nourish the hair from the inside out by providing hydration and essential vitamins and minerals to help rebuild damaged hair. Be sure to always use a light hand and experiment to find the perfect blend for your hair type. Also, warm the oil for a few seconds before massaging it into the scalp and hair strands, as this will help the oil penetrate deeper. Make sure to leave the oil on for at least 20 minutes and be sure to rinse it out with cool water to avoid stripping the hair of the nutrients it needs.
Applying the Right Shampoo
High porosity hair needs a gentle shampoo that won’t strip away moisture. Choose a shampoo that focuses on nourishment, hydration, and gentle cleansing. Avoid shampoos that contain artificial fragrances and colors, as these can cause further damage.
It is also important to remember not to over-shampoo, as this can damage and deplete the natural oils in the hair, leaving it dry and brittle. Aim to shampoo no more than once every other week and when you do shampoo, focus on cleansing the scalp only.
Deep Conditioning
High porosity hair needs regular deep conditioning treatments, ideally at least once a week. The goal here is to replenish the hair strands with moisture and help reduce frizz. Choose a deep conditioner that helps to repair and rebuild the hair and contains natural oils, proteins, and plant-based butters.
Be sure to leave your deep conditioner on for at least 20 minutes before rinsing it out with lukewarm water. If you want even stronger results, try a steam treatment by wrapping a steaming towel or warm a bowl of steaming water and cover the hair with a shower cap for 15 minutes before rinsing out the deep conditioner.
Styling Products
When it comes to styling high porosity hair, it is important to choose products that focus on nourishing and hydrating the hair. Avoid heavy creams and gels as these can cause further breakage.
Look for light leave-in conditioners that lock in moisture, curl defining creams and mousses that contain nourishing oils and proteins, and hair oils and serums to help protect the hair from environmental damage.
Minimizing Breakage
High porosity hair breaks very easily, so it is important to minimize breakage in order to keep it looking its best. Avoid using too many hot tools on the hair, and when you do, be sure to use a heat protectant. It is also important to use a wide tooth comb when detangling, rather than a brush which causes tugging and breakage.
High porosity hair can be difficult to manage, but with the right products and techniques, you can keep it healthy and looking its best. Begin with pre-shampoo treatments that help to nourish the hair from the inside out, and follow up with a gentle shampoo and deep conditioning. Use light leave-in conditioners, curl defining creams, and nourishing oils and serums to style and protect your hair, and be sure to minimize breakage by avoiding too much heat and using a wide-tooth comb when detangling. With a little care and patience, you’ll have the high porosity hair of your dreams!
