Inspired by Woman’s World’s guide to understanding low porosity hair
If it feels like your hair repels water or your favorite conditioner just sits on top of your strands without sinking in, you might have low porosity hair. It’s a common hair type—but also commonly misunderstood.
At HPI Hair Partners, we work with many clients who are frustrated with dry, dull, or thinning hair. Sometimes the issue isn’t your products—it’s how your hair absorbs them. That’s where understanding porosity comes in.
What Is Low Porosity Hair?
Porosity refers to how well your hair can absorb and retain moisture. With low porosity hair, the cuticle layer lies flat and tight, making it difficult for water and nutrients to get in.
Here’s what that might look like:
- Products seem to “sit” on your hair rather than absorb
- Hair takes a long time to fully dry
- You experience buildup easily
- Moisture doesn’t seem to help—even when you’re using the “right” products
According to Woman’s World, this is more about structure than health. Low porosity hair isn’t damaged—it just needs different care.
How to Care for Low Porosity Hair
The key is to open the cuticle slightly so your products can actually do their job. That means:
- Use heat or steam during deep conditioning to help ingredients penetrate the hair shaft.
- Choose lightweight products with humectants (like glycerin or aloe vera) that draw in moisture.
- Avoid heavy oils or butters, which tend to coat the hair and lead to buildup.
- Clarify regularly to keep your scalp and strands clean and product-free.
We often use steam or warm towel treatments in our clinic for this exact reason—they help moisture go into the hair, not just sit on the surface.
Why It Matters for Hair Growth and Health
If your hair can’t absorb moisture, it’s more likely to become dry and brittle over time. And if you’re applying expensive treatments or growth serums without addressing porosity, you may not see results—because your hair can’t receive the help you’re giving it.
That’s why at HPI Hair Partners, we take time to understand your hair type, scalp health, and environmental stressors before building your care plan. Low porosity hair requires a specific strategy—and we’re here to guide you through it.
Want to know your hair’s porosity—and how to work with it?
We’ll help you take the guesswork out of your routine. Book a consultation or explore our personalized hair health treatments designed to help you retain moisture, restore balance, and support stronger hair growth.
