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Finding the right leave-in conditioner for low porosity hair isn’t as easy as it should be. When your hair needs moisture but can get weighed down with too much, it’s hard to know which leave-in conditioners can deliver the right amount of hydration (and hopefully some other benefits.)
That being said, leave-in conditioners are amazing for low porosity hair because they deliver lightweight hydration on wet or dry hair and can generally be applied frequently (and without having to rinse out!) Finding the right leave-in conditioner can make your hair more manageable, soft, and hydrated in ways you can feel and see.
Leave-in conditioners are great for low porosity hair because they are 1) water-based, 2) lightweight, 3) and contain humectants that bring moisture into your hair. Lightweight hydration that you don’t even have to rinse out makes these products a godsend for those that struggle with dryness from low porosity hair.
They are also great for all hair types from super fine to thick curly hair. Leave-in conditioners tend to be multi-tasking products. In addition to moisturizing the hair, they detangle, soften, and smooth hair and sometimes they have extra capabilities like UV protection and hair strengthening and repair.
It will depend on how dry your hair feels, but start by applying leave-in conditioner to your low porosity hair once a week. It’s ok to spray on dry hair during the week if you feel your hair needs ore hydration. Most leave-in conditioners are ok to use a few times a week, but check the label on your leave-in conditioner.
A great way to keep low porosity hair moisturized is by steaming your hair before applying a conditioning treatment like a hair mask or a leave-in conditioner. Steaming the hair opens the cuticle to make it receptive to moisture.
You can purchase a steamer or you can simply microwave a wet towel and wrap it around your head after applying the conditioning treatment. Leave it until it cools down all the way (about 20 minutes) and your hair will feel silky smooth.
Italian brand Davines has a milky leave-in that reduces frizz and tangles without being heavy on the hair. You can also spray this one directly into your hands for some light hydration. Roucou oil strengthens the hair and protects against damage while also making hair feel impossibly silky.
K18’s flagship product is a leave-in treatment (but not a protein treatment) that is similar to a leave-in conditioner both in how its used and its effect, however it’s ability to restore damaged hair is unparalleled. After shampooing, work K18 into the hair and let sit for 4 minutes before styling (no rinsing necessary!) With regular use, K18 will make your low porosity hair softer and smoother.
Olaplex No. 6 is a silicone-free leave-in styling creme that adds moisture without the buildup for up to 72 hours. It’s amazing at getting rid of frizz and leaving hair incredibly smooth and while everyone seems to have an opinion about the Olaplex line, this product is truly a standout for its weightlessness and effectiveness in creating healthy hair.
There are a lot of good leave-in conditioner options out there at the drugstore, but this one from Tresemme is lightweight enough for those with low porosity or fine hair. It is silicone-free (which is great for those with low porosity hair worried about too much buildup) and it detangles and softens dry and damaged hair.
Sachajuan is a cool Swedish brand that makes a weightless leave-in conditioning treatment that is formulated to keep your ends hydrated. They use algae extract of moisture that protects against breakage. Spray on damp hair for the best (mess-free) results.
The It’s a 10 Miracle Leave-In conditioner is a new classic for it superior detangling, softening, and moisturizing abilities. If you have low porosity hair however, the regular version is likely too heavy for your hair. To avoid product building up on your hair, they’ve created a Lite version which gives you all the benefits without the mess.
This leave-in conditioner is truly a multi-tasker as it adds silkiness and shine while also protecting hair from split ends, color fade, frizz, and environmental impurities. This is an amazing leave-in conditioner for anyone with low porosity hair, but it also works well for those with fine or short hair.
The Honest Company makes a bangin’ leave-in conditioner for lightweight moisture while also strengthening hair. It’s a gentle alcohol-free formula made up of argan oil and shea butter that is light enough to use daily on damp or dry hair.
Leave-In conditioners are one of the best products to have on hand if you have low porosity hair. Lightweight, water-based hydration is perfect for use on damp or dry hair and gentle enough to be used weekly or even daily. To get the best results out of your leave-in conditioner on low porosity hair, steam your hair beforehand. This will allow the product to penetrate more deeply and leave your hair silkier, softer and more moisturized.
