9 Best Oils For Low Porosity Hair 2023 | Lightweight Oils You Have To Try

Using these oils for low porosity hair will keep them moisturized. Argan oil, sesame oil, olive oil, and mustard oil are some lightweight ones perfect for your pre-poo!

Hair porosity is a very important factor when it comes to hair care. Hair porosity varies from person to person and this can play a role in the texture and how moisturized your hair feels.

Low porosity hair is quite a common hair type where the hair structure is such that the hair shafts do not easily let moisture get absorbed into it. 

This will result in the hair becoming dry quite easily as it will lack moisture.

Well, like every other problem that has solutions, low porosity hair can be tackled by using the right hair oil that can penetrate into the hair shaft and keep the hair moisturized.

Being someone with the low porosity hair type, I’ve had my fair share of dry hair issues and that’s when I realized that oiling my hair more often was the best way out of it. 

That’s how I got down to testing these oils and I’ve also reviewed them for you. So here you go!

Best Oils for Low Porosity Hair	Best For	Top Ingredient
Handcraft Blends Apricot Kernel Oil	All hair types	Apricot kernels
Kate Blanc Cosmetics Argan Oil	Oily, Normal, Dry hair	Argan seeds
Viva Naturals Sweet Almond Oil	All hair types	Almond seeds
Plant Therapy Fractionated Coconut Oil	Dry, Normal, Oily hair	Coconut extract
Kate Blanc Cosmetics Organic Jojoba Oil	All hair types	Jojoba seeds

What are the best oils for low porosity hair?

If you want to try oils for low porosity hair, especially as a pre-poo for hair, you should check out lightweight oils that get absorbed easily into hair. These include sweet almond oil, argan oil, jojoba oil, and more. As they’re full of omega-3 fatty acids and have a light texture, they suit low-porosity hair the best.

Here is a quick comparison between the top oils for low porosity hair:

Oils For Low Porosity Hair	Handcraft Blends Apricot Kernel Oil	Kate Blanc Cosmetics Argan Oil	Viva Naturals Sweet Almond Oil	Plant Therapy Fractionated Coconut Oil	Kate Blanc Cosmetics Organic Jojoba Oil
Images
Price	Affordable	Affordable	Affordable	Very Affordable	Expensive
Lightweight	4/5	4.5/5	3.5/5	4/5	4.5/5
Moisturizing	3.5/5	4.5/5	4/5	5/5	4.5/5
Cold-Pressed?	Yes	Yes	No	No	Yes
Organic?	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes

How I tested the best oils for low porosity hair?

I love testing and experimenting on products and also reviewing them. When I review any product, I like to review them based on parameters to give the reader a better idea of the product they are going to buy. I’ve also rated them on a scale of 1-5. 

Here are the three parameters I’ve reviewed these oils on:

Moisturizing power: Since low porosity hair often feels dry, this aspect is something I took into consideration, because it is quite hard for oils to penetrate into low porosity hair in general.

Texture and greasiness: Some oils can make your hair feel heavy and very greasy after application, which is something I do not look for in an oil. Therefore, I took this aspect into consideration as well.

Effect on my hair: Since all hair types are different and the levels of low porosity will also vary, I’d like to rate how I felt it worked on my relatively low porosity hair, which is curly by nature and often tends to feel dry and coarse.

Top Oils for Low Porosity Hair 2023

KNOW YOUR HAIR TYPE- an easy hair porosity test

Take a strand of hair and put it in a glass of water and assess whether it sinks or swims 👇🏾

Low – Avoid thick oils and Shea butters
Medium – normal use of oils and water
High – lots of water. Seal with oils and butters pic.twitter.com/87DzMGshbs

— Shop Beauty on TApp (@BeautyonTApp) February 4, 2020

What Is Low Porosity Hair Type?

Low porosity hair is a hair type characterized by its resistance to absorbing moisture and hair products due to the tightly closed cuticles on the hair shaft. In low porosity hair, the cuticles lie flat and are closely packed together, making it difficult for water and other substances to penetrate the hair shaft. This can lead to challenges in keeping the hair properly moisturized and hydrated.

Key characteristics of low porosity hair include:

1. Slow Water Absorption: Low porosity hair repels water rather than absorbing it quickly. When you wet your hair, you may notice that water tends to bead up on the surface instead of being absorbed.
2. Product Buildup: Because the cuticles are tightly closed, hair products like conditioners and moisturizers can sit on the surface of the hair rather than being absorbed. This can lead to product buildup over time.
3. Resistance to Chemical Treatments: Low porosity hair can be resistant to chemical treatments such as hair dye and perms because the cuticles make it difficult for these chemicals to penetrate the hair shaft.
4. Prone to Dryness: Despite its resistance to moisture absorption, low porosity hair can still become dry and brittle if not properly moisturized. The closed cuticles can also make it challenging for natural scalp oils to travel down the hair shaft.
5. Shine and Smooth Texture: Low porosity hair often has a natural shine and smooth texture due to the flat, closed cuticles.
6. Product Selection: People with low porosity hair may need to choose hair products specifically formulated for this hair type, such as lightweight, water-based conditioners and moisturizers that can penetrate the cuticles more effectively.

To effectively care for low porosity hair, it’s important to use products and techniques that can help open the cuticles and allow moisture to penetrate. This might include using warm water during washing, incorporating regular deep conditioning treatments with heat, and avoiding heavy or waxy hair products that can exacerbate product buildup. Understanding your hair’s porosity is crucial for tailoring your hair care routine to its specific needs.

How to choose oils for low porosity hair type – Factors to consider

When it comes to buying oils for low porosity hair, there are a few factors to keep in mind. Here are some things to consider:

1. Lightweight: Low porosity hair doesn’t absorb moisture or products easily, so it’s important to look for oils that are lightweight and won’t weigh your hair down.

2. Penetrating: Look for oils that are able to penetrate the hair shaft easily, as this will help to maintain moisture levels and promote healthy hair growth.

3. Nourishing: Oils that are high in nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids are ideal for low porosity hair, as they help to repair and strengthen the hair follicles.

4. Non-greasy: Nobody wants oily hair, so it’s important to find oils that won’t leave your hair feeling greasy or weighed down.

5. Versatile: Finally, look for oils that can be used in a variety of ways, whether as a pre-shampoo treatment, a leave-in conditioner, or a styling aid.

Overall, it’s important to choose oils that are compatible with your low porosity hair, as this will help to keep your locks looking healthy, shiny, and beautiful. So, take the time to do your research and find the best oils for your unique hair type.

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How to use argan oil for low porosity hair

Argan oil is a wonderful option for low porosity hair because of its exceptional moisturising abilities. The best way to use argan oil is by adding it to your hair care routine, starting with your wash day.

Firstly, when washing your hair, use warm water to open up the hair cuticles, and apply a low-pH shampoo. After rinsing out the shampoo, gently massage the argan oil onto your scalp, making sure to distribute it evenly to your hair strands.

Once the oil is evenly distributed, use a conditioner to reseal the cuticles of the hair, protecting and locking in the moisture.

It’s important to note that a small amount of argan oil goes a long way, so be cautious not to overuse it. After rinsing out the conditioner, towel dry your hair by gently wrapping the towel around your head, avoiding rubbing your hair vigorously, which can cause damage.

Apply a few drops of argan oil onto your hair, from the mid-section to the ends, focusing on the tips- which is where most damage occurs.

When using argan oil as a styling aid, use a small amount on damp hair to prevent frizz and encourage hair health. The benefits of argan oil are truly amazing, it’s a great natural ingredient that will leave your hair looking and feeling healthy and lustrous.

What are the best essential oils for low porosity hair

There are many plant-extracted distilled essential oils that can benefit low porosity hair. Whether you’re looking for something to nourish, stimulate growth, or hydrate, there is an oil out there for you.

First up is lavender essential oil. Not only is it a great stress reliever, but it is also fantastic for boosting hair health. It helps to balance the natural oils in your hair and scalp, which can help prevent dryness and breakage. Lavender oil also has antimicrobial properties that can keep your scalp healthy and free from infection.

Another essential oil that can help with low porosity hair is rosemary oil. This oil is known for its ability to stimulate hair growth and improve blood circulation to the scalp. It is also great for dandruff and itchy scalps. Plus, it has a lovely minty scent!

Tea tree oil is another popular option. This oil has antifungal and antibacterial properties that can help combat dandruff and other scalp conditions. It also helps to unclog hair follicles, which can promote hair growth. However, it is important to make sure you dilute tea tree oil before using it on your hair, as it can be harsh if used undiluted.

Next up is peppermint oil. This oil can help to improve blood circulation to the scalp and provide a cooling sensation that can relieve itching and soreness. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe irritated scalps. Plus, its invigorating scent will leave your hair smelling fresh and clean.

How To Moisturize Low Porosity Hair

Low porosity hair has a unique structure that makes it less prone to absorbing moisture. To effectively moisturize low porosity hair, you need to focus on techniques and products that can open the hair’s cuticles and allow moisture to penetrate. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to moisturize low porosity hair:

Clarify Your Hair: Start with a clarifying shampoo to remove any product buildup and open up the hair cuticles. This will ensure that your hair can absorb moisture more effectively.

Use Warm Water: When washing your hair, use warm water. Warm water helps to open the cuticles, making it easier for moisture to penetrate. Rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water before applying any products.

Pre-Poo Treatment: Before shampooing, consider applying a pre-poo treatment to your hair. This can be an oil treatment or a conditioner applied before washing. It helps to soften the cuticles and make them more receptive to moisture.

Choose the Right Conditioner: Look for lightweight, water-based conditioners that are specifically formulated for low porosity hair. Avoid heavy, protein-rich products that can weigh down your hair and make it greasy.

Deep Conditioning: Regular deep conditioning is essential for low porosity hair. Use a deep conditioner with heat to help open the cuticles and allow the product to penetrate deeply. You can sit under a hooded dryer or use a shower cap and apply heat from your body by wrapping a warm towel around your head.

Use the LOC or LCO Method: The LOC (Liquid-Oil-Cream) or LCO (Liquid-Cream-Oil) method involves layering products in a specific order to lock in moisture. Start with a water-based leave-in conditioner or aloe vera gel, followed by a light oil (such as argan or jojoba), and finish with a moisturizing cream or butter. This layering helps to seal in moisture.

Avoid Heavy Styling Products: Use styling products sparingly, and opt for lightweight, water-based options. Heavy products can create a barrier that prevents moisture from getting into the hair shaft.

Avoid Overuse of Protein: While protein treatments are beneficial, avoid overusing them, as too much protein can make low porosity hair feel dry and brittle.

Protect Your Hair at Night: Use a satin or silk pillowcase or wrap your hair in a silk or satin scarf or bonnet to prevent moisture loss during sleep.

Stay Hydrated: Properly hydrated hair starts from within. Drink plenty of water to keep your hair and scalp healthy.

Patience and Consistency: Low porosity hair may take time to show improvement in moisture retention. Be patient and consistent with your moisturizing routine.

Remember that everyone’s hair is unique, and it may take some trial and error to find the products and techniques that work best for your low porosity hair. Pay attention to how your hair responds and adjust your routine accordingly.

Handcraft Blends Apricot Kernel Oil

Cold-pressed: Yes

Chemical-free: Yes

This was my first time trying out the brand Handcraft Blends and I must say it was definitely a good buy.

It was also my very first try at using apricot oil and I found that the oil was lightweight and didn’t weigh my hair down nor did it make my hair feel overly oily and greasy once I applied it.

It made my hair fairly smooth and much softer than it was before. So I must say that this oil was very high on its moisturizing effect.

I often like to add in some essential oils like rosemary oil or peppermint oil because they are considered very good for the hair and what I love about this oil is that I can also use it as a carrier oil.

Another aspect I like about this oil is that it is all-natural and contains no hexane, so I for sure knew that it would be gentle on my hair.

Now coming to the bad part. Well, I could find nothing wrong with the oil itself. I would be wary if you have apricot allergies, but this should go without saying!

Pros:

•  Gentle on the hair as it contains no hexane.
•  Lightweight and non-greasy on the hair.
•  Long shelf life so you can use it for long
•  No strong or artificial fragrance so you can use it on sensitive scalp

Cons:

• None.

My Ratings:

• Moisturizing power: 4.3/5
• Texture and greasiness: 4.3/5
• Effect on my hair: 4.2/5

Kate Blanc Cosmetics Argan Oil

Cold-pressed: Yes

Chemical-free: Yes

I love the brand Kate Blanc and I’ve also tried out two different oils from this brand (review on the Jojoba Oil one below) and they were absolutely amazing for my low porosity curly hair.

My hair felt rejuvenated and very moisturized once I started using this oil. It is very hydrating in nature and also repaired my damaged hair to a large extent.

What I love about this oil is that it is non-oily and non-greasy in texture and also after application. It is also lightweight and made my hair look much fresher and not weighed down and limp.

It is completely natural and free from harsh chemicals and this is something I look for in all products, so that they are gentle on my hair and this definitely was.

One thing I need to make a mention of is that this oil was comparatively more expensive than the jojoba oil from the same brand.

Pros:

•  Gentle on the hair as it is all natural.
•  Non-oily and non-greasy in texture so it suits oily scalps.
•  Lightweight and doesn’t make the hair stand limp.

Cons:

•  Comparatively more expensive than the other oils from this brand.

My Ratings:

• Moisturizing power: 4.2/5
• Texture and greasiness: 4.5/5
• Effect on my hair: 4.2/5

• Related: Are Hot Oil Treatments Good For Low Porosity Hair
• Related: Is Rice Water Good For Low Porosity Hair
• Related: Best Co Wash Products For Low Porosity Hair
• Related: How to Grow Low Porosity Hair

Viva Naturals Sweet Almond Oil

Cold-pressed: No

Chemical-free: Yes

If you’re looking for a good carrier oil, then choose this one! I loved blending this with different essential oils every time I used it for my hair.

What I really love about this oil is that it was super hydrating for my low porosity curly hair. It made my hair feel rejuvenated and nourished. The texture improved over time and my hair began to feel super soft.

It is non-greasy after it is applied but I still think oils like argan or jojoba oil are much lighter compared to sweet almond oil. 

I was also skeptical about this product at first as it is not cold-pressed and the extraction process makes an oil lose most of its nutrients. But it is free from hexane. 

So I was assured the almond oil is as rich in omega-3 fatty acids as a cold-pressed oil would be!

Pros:

•  Full of nutrients as it contains no hexane.
•  Non-oily and non-greasy in texture so it spreads easily hair
•  Lightweight and doesn’t make the hair stand limp.
•  Works well as a carrier oil and can be used with other oils
•  Unscented so it’s suitable for sensitive skin
•  Comes with a liquid dispenser which makes it easy to apply directly to scalp

Cons:

• Comparatively less lighter than jojoba/argan oil

My Ratings:

• Moisturizing power: 4.3/5
• Texture and greasiness: 4.5/5
• Effect on my hair: 4.2/5

Related: Argan Oil For Hair

Plant Therapy Fractionated Coconut Oil

Cold-pressed: Doesn’t mention

Chemical-free: Yes

Yes, yes I know what you’re thinking. Coconut oil? For low porosity hair? Whattt??? But this isn’t your run-of-the-mill oil, it’s fractionated coconut oil.

This oil always stays in its liquid form but it contains all the nutrients regular coconut oil does. Genius, right?

I found this oil very absorbent and made my hair feel very nourished and hydrated. It definitely regained its shine and lustre after each use.

There was absolutely no greasy residue left after I applied this oil on my hair. You can safely use it on low porosity hair. 

I think it’s best for Afro low porosity hair that needs that extra moisture but cannot tolerate the grease from butters or creams.

The best way to use this oil is by slightly warming it up before application, as that is how I always use coconut oil.

The only thing I didn’t like about this product is that the liquid dispenser pump it comes with isn’t of very good quality and makes dispensing the oil a messy affair.

Pros:

•  Retains its liquid consistency so suitable for low-porosity hair
•  Non-greasy on the hair as it’s fractionated 
•  Leaves no sticky residue after application so it doesn’t cause build-up
•  Works well as a carrier oil, so can be used with essential oils

Cons:

•  Damaged and dysfunctional liquid dispenser pump.

My Ratings:

• Moisturizing power: 4.3/5
• Texture and greasiness: 4.5/5
• Effect on my hair: 4.2/5

Kate Blanc Cosmetics Organic Jojoba Oil

Cold-pressed: Yes

Chemical-free: Yes

Like I mentioned earlier, I do like this brand and the jojoba oil is the second carrier oil I am trying out from this brand.

It was my very first try at using jojoba oil for my low porosity hair and trust me, this worked pretty well for me! I was definitely satisfied with how my hair began to feel upon every use.

My hair felt super nourished and well hydrated and over time my dry hair began to feel more moisturized and started looking healthier and felt much smoother, with an increased shine.

Jojoba oil is also a brilliant heat protectant thanks to its high heating point. So I often use it on my tresses before straightening or blow drying them. 

 I also add in a couple of drops into my shampoo and it makes my hair feel soft after each wash.

This product is reasonably priced and costs much lesser than the argan oil by the same brand.

Pros:

•  Gentle on the hair as it contains no chemicals.
•  Nourishes the hair and keeps it hydrated.
•  Increases hair shine and improves hair texture.
•  Reasonably priced compared to argan oil 

Cons:

• None I could find

My Ratings:

• Moisturizing power: 4.3/5
• Texture and greasiness: 4.2/5
• Effect on my hair: 4.2 /5

MAJESTIC PURE Avocado Oil on Low Porosity Hair

MAJESTIC PURE Avocado Oil has been my secret weapon for taming my low porosity hair. This oil has proven to be a game-changer in my haircare routine, especially for its ability to penetrate those stubborn, closed cuticles.

One of the standout features of this avocado oil is its richness in nutrients and its ability to deeply moisturize. With low porosity hair, it’s often a struggle to keep the strands adequately hydrated, but this oil does the job remarkably well.

I use it as a pre-shampoo treatment, applying it generously to my hair and scalp. The results have been nothing short of impressive. My hair feels softer, more manageable, and even looks shinier.

Another perk is that it’s 100% pure and cold-pressed, meaning I’m not introducing any harmful chemicals to my hair. Plus, it’s lightweight, so it doesn’t weigh down my already fine hair.

Pros:

• Excellent for low porosity hair due to its ability to penetrate closed cuticles.
• Deeply moisturizes and softens hair.
• Adds shine and manageability.
• 100% pure and cold-pressed.
• Lightweight formula.

Cons:

• None to mention. It’s been a hair savior for me.

My Ratings:

• Moisturizing power: 4.3/5
• Texture and greasiness: 4.2/5
• Effect on my hair: 4.2 /5

US Organic Sesame Seed Oil on Low Porosity Hair

US Organic Moisturizing And Nourishing Sesame Seed Oil has become my go-to for low porosity hair care. Its lightweight yet deeply moisturizing properties make it a perfect match for my hair type.

Low porosity hair often struggles with moisture retention, but this sesame seed oil gets the job done without leaving my hair feeling greasy. I apply it sparingly as a leave-in treatment after washing and conditioning my hair. It helps lock in moisture, making my hair feel soft, smooth, and more manageable.

What I appreciate most is its 100% pure and organic composition, ensuring that I’m not exposing my hair to any unnecessary chemicals or additives. Plus, it’s versatile – I’ve even used it for oil pulling, a practice that has improved my overall oral health.

Pros:

• Lightweight and non-greasy.
• Deeply moisturizes and adds manageability to low porosity hair.
• 100% pure and organic.
• Versatile for hair and oral care.

Cons:

• Some may not prefer the natural sesame scent, but it’s not overpowering.

My Ratings:

• Moisturizing power: 4.3/5
• Texture and greasiness: 4.2/5
• Effect on my hair: 4.2 /5

Renewalize Certified Organic Baobab Oil on Low Porosity Hair

Renewalize Certified Organic Baobab Oil has found a permanent spot in my low porosity hair care routine. This oil has been a revelation in providing much-needed moisture and nourishment to my hair, which tends to be resistant to hydration.

Low porosity hair often struggles to retain moisture, but baobab oil has become a game-changer for me. I use it as a deep conditioning treatment by applying it to my hair, covering it with a shower cap, and applying heat. This method helps open the hair’s cuticles, allowing the oil to penetrate effectively.

After rinsing, my hair feels incredibly soft, hydrated, and more manageable. It also adds a natural shine that I’ve been craving.

The fact that it’s certified organic gives me peace of mind that I’m using a pure and chemical-free product on my hair. Plus, the light texture ensures it doesn’t weigh down my strands.

Pros:

• Exceptional at providing moisture to low porosity hair.
• Deep conditioning treatment leaves hair soft, hydrated, and manageable.
• Adds natural shine.
• Certified organic.
• Lightweight formula.

Cons:

• None to mention. It’s a fantastic addition to my hair care routine.

My Ratings:

• Moisturizing power: 4.3/5
• Texture and greasiness: 4.2/5
• Effect on my hair: 4.2 /5

SOL de Janeiro hair oil on Low Porosity Hair

SOL de Janeiro NOURISHING HAIR OIL has been a delightful discovery for my low porosity hair. While it’s primarily known for its luxurious fragrance and overall hair health benefits, it has worked wonders for my hair type as well.

Low porosity hair often struggles to absorb oils, but this hair oil’s lightweight formula doesn’t weigh my hair down or leave it feeling greasy. I apply a small amount to my hair, focusing on the ends and any frizz-prone areas. The results are impressive – my hair feels soft, looks shiny, and is significantly more manageable.

The scent, a signature SOL de Janeiro fragrance, is an added bonus. It leaves my hair smelling fantastic throughout the day. Plus, the oil is enriched with nourishing ingredients like coconut oil and cupuaçu butter, which contribute to overall hair health.

Pros:

• Lightweight formula is suitable for low porosity hair.
• Leaves hair soft, shiny, and manageable.
• Luxurious fragrance.
• Contains nourishing ingredients like coconut oil and cupuaçu butter.

Cons:

• The scent may be too strong for those sensitive to fragrances.
• Premium price point compared to some other hair oils.

My Ratings:

• Moisturizing power: 4.3/5
• Texture and greasiness: 4.2/5
• Effect on my hair: 4.2 /5

What Kind Of Hair Oils To Avoid With Low Porosity Hair?

If you have low porosity hair, this means your hair doesn’t leak out moisture easily. However, it doesn’t absorb oil or moisture in your hair either as the cuticles are very closely packed together. So usually I prefer using oils that are lightweight and easily absorbed by low porosity hair.

In this case, you cannot use heavy oils that are very viscous as these can get stuck on top of hair as the cuticles do not absorb them easily. Heavy oils include castor oil, Black Jamaican castor oil, pumpkin seed oil, some types of coconut oil, hemp seed oil, sunflower oil, rapeseed oil, etc. Therefore you need to avoid these!

In the same vein, you should avoid any type of “heavy” moisturizers on low porosity hair. So avoid shea butter, cocoa butter, and heavy creams.

The final takeaway

Dealing with low porosity hair can often be hard, but other than just oiling it regularly, there are also other ways to nourish them

You’ve got to try deep conditioning and using clarifying shampoos to get rid of product buildup to make low porosity hair absorb moisture easier. 

I also recommend reducing the usage of  leave-in conditioners and not styling your hair too often to keep your low porosity hair from getting too damaged. 

I hope this article came in handy for you in your search to choose the best oil for your low porosity hair type.

Why You Should Trust Haireveryday?

The author of this article, Leah Marie Priest has a degree in Cosmetology with years of experience in dealing with hair care, scalp care, and hairstyling. As someone who extensively deals with all kinds of hair textures, products, styling methods and more, hair Leah Marie knows what kind of products and procedures suit each hair type and person. We have also tested these hair products and processes ourselves to provide you an unbiased review about every product. Each of our articles are also reviewed by a team of medical professionals so that you get the most accurate and expert-reviewed information.

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