Low Porosity Hair: What It Is and How to Care for It

A good hair care routine can make or break (quite literally) your hair and your overall look. A nourishing and consistent routine is vital, however not all products and tools are right for every hair type. Recently at Mermade HQ, we have seen the term ‘low porosity hair’ popping up all over our Tiktok and social media. We decided to delve in deeper to the current trending hair care term. So, what exactly is low porosity hair, and why is it suddenly everywhere? If you've ever struggled with dry ends despite using every hydrating product under the sun or found your favourite treatments just seem to sit on your strands without soaking in you might be dealing with low porosity hair.

Understanding your hair's porosity can be a game changer when it comes to choosing the right products and routines. At Mermade HQ, we’ve done the research so you don’t have to. Let’s break down what low porosity hair really means, how to identify if you have it, and the best ways to care for it.

What is low porosity hair? 

Low porosity hair is hair, which although may be completely healthy, water can’t penetrate the deeply bound cuticles. This means that products like conditioners and hair oils struggle to deliver moisture to the hair shaft. 

How should I look after my low porosity hair? 

Typically low porosity hair is colour resistant, struggles and takes longer to absorb moisture, as well as needs lots of drying time. Due to this your haircare routine should focus on products that are deeply conditioning, such as our Repair Mask. Additionally, hair oils or serums daily before washing and heat styling are essential. Our Styling Primer or Mermade Mist is great for this! 

We additionally recommend washing hair with our Shampoo and Conditioner every few days. This dream combo works by hydrating hair, whilst also avoiding product build up (a common occurrence with low porosity hair due to excessive application of product)

How should I style my low porosity hair? 

Excessive or unprotected heat can cause damage more easily because the hair’s natural defence mechanism (the tightly sealed cuticle) doesn't let in enough moisture to offset the drying effects of heat. As a result we recommend styling your hair with our healthier heat styling tools here. Use our M Infrared Waver to create some dreamy ‘girl next door waves’, the M Ionic Dryer for that bombshell blowout or the Infrared Thermal Brush for some soft, ‘clean girl’ curls. 

Alternatively, our Heatless Style Kit would be perfect for low porosity hair. The kit styles with no heat damage and additionally, reduces friction and frizz. This can avoid hair breakage, minimise damage and help to lock in moisture, necessary for hair with low porosity.