Low porosity curls have their own unique rhythm when it comes to moisture & care. With their tightly closed cuticles, low porosity strands are structured to retain hydration.
The right oiling techniques can enhance this natural strength & beauty.
Choosing the best oils for curly hair, applying them effectively & maintaining a balanced routine will ensure your curls stay soft, vibrant & full of life. Ready to simplify your curl care routine? Let’s explore how hair oiling for low porosity hair can support your strands & keep them thriving.
Why Low Porosity Curls Need a Special Approach to Oiling
Low porosity curls have a unique structure that requires a thoughtful approach to oiling. With tightly closed cuticles, these strands naturally resist water absorption but also excel at holding in moisture once properly hydrated. Since oil is hydrophobic, meaning it repels water, applying it without care can create a barrier that makes hydration harder to achieve.
That’s why oiling low porosity hair calls for intentional techniques & routines that prioritize moisture first.
Always follow the golden rule for low porosity hair: water before oil. Start by hydrating your hair using water or a water-based product. Once your curls are damp, apply a lightweight oil to help seal in that precious moisture without creating buildup.
The Best Types of Oils for Low Porosity Hair
To choose the right products for low porosity hair, focus on lightweight options that will nourish your curls without overwhelming them. To keep your strands hydrated, shiny & soft, opt for oils with smaller molecules that penetrate the hair shaft easily.
What oils are good for low porosity hair? Look for ingredients like Argan, Jojoba or Grapeseed, which enhance hydration without weighing hair down:
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Argan Oil – One of the best oils for low porosity hair is Argan Oil. This lightweight, nutrient-rich oil provides hydration, reduces breakage & adds a natural shine without leaving your hair feeling greasy.
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Jojoba Oil – Jojoba Oil is another fantastic option, as it closely mimics the scalp's natural sebum, helping to balance moisture levels & prevent dryness.
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Grapeseed Oil – Grapeseed Oil, with its light consistency & high vitamin E content, can seal in hydration while adding softness & protection.
By selecting these lightweight oils & applying them after hydrating your hair, you’ll ensure your low porosity curls stay fully nourished.
How to Prep Your Low Porosity Curls Before Oiling
Preparing your low porosity curls before oiling is essential for maximizing hydration & ensuring the oils work effectively. Since low porosity hair thrives on water, you must always properly hydrate your strands before oiling.
Cleanse your curls using a gentle shampoo, like the PATTERN Hydration Shampoo, to remove any buildup that might block moisture absorption. Follow up with a water-based conditioner, like the PATTERN Lightweight Conditioner, to replenish hydration.
After cleansing, ensure your hair is damp but not dripping wet. Water acts as the foundation for locking in moisture, so don’t skip this step.
Step-by-Step Guide to Oiling Low Porosity Hair
Hair oiling for low porosity hair is most effective when done with small, intentional steps that prioritize hydration & balance:
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Hydrate first – Start with clean, damp hair. Water is essential for ensuring oils can effectively seal in moisture.
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Work in sections – Divide your hair into manageable sections to give every strand the attention it needs.
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Apply sparingly – Use a small amount of oil, whether it be the PATTERN Jojoba Oil Blend or Argan Oil Blend, focusing on the mid-lengths & ends where moisture retention is most needed. Avoid applying too much to the scalp to prevent product buildup.
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Massage gently – Use your fingertips to massage the oil into your hair, encouraging better absorption while boosting scalp circulation.
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Seal & style – Lock in moisture by sealing with a leave-in conditioner or styling product, keeping your curls hydrated & defined. May we recommend the PATTERN Leave-In Conditioner or PATTERN Styling Cream?
By following these steps, you can achieve lasting hydration & luscious curls.
How to Use Heat to Enhance Oil Absorption in Low Porosity Curls
Heat can elevate the effectiveness of low porosity hair oiling by helping oils penetrate tightly packed cuticles. Low porosity hair benefits from a little warmth, which gently opens the cuticles & allows nourishing oils to absorb deeply.
To incorporate heat into your low porosity hair routine, start by warming your chosen oil slightly. Once warmed, apply the oil to damp hair using our step-by-step low porosity hair oiling guide for even distribution.
After applying, cover your hair with a plastic cap or wrap it in a warm towel. This creates a steam-like environment that helps trap heat, encouraging the oil to work its way into your strands.
How Often Should You Oil Low Porosity Curls?
Oiling frequency depends on your hair’s unique needs—but for low porosity curls, balance is key. Over-oiling can lead to buildup & dryness, so start oiling once a week & adjust as needed.
If your curls feel hydrated & soft, you’re on the right track. For extra moisture during dry seasons, try oiling twice a week, focusing on the ends.
By observing your hair’s response & tweaking your routine, you can find the perfect oiling frequency to keep your curls thriving.
Pamper Your Low Porosity Curls with PATTERN
Caring for low porosity curls requires thoughtful routines, nourishing products & a little patience.
The heart of this process is understanding your hair’s unique needs—like prioritizing hydration, incorporating lightweight oils & using heat strategically to open those tightly packed cuticles. Also, knowing which low porosity hair oils to avoid—like heavy options that sit on your strands without absorbing—will help you maintain balance & prevent buildup.
PATTERN has the tools you need to support your low porosity hair care routine, ensuring your strands receive the love they deserve. From hydrating treatments to lightweight, moisture-sealing options, we offer something for every step of your regimen.
Sources:
Healthline. How to Care for Low Porosity Hair. https://www.healthline.com/health/low-porosity-hair
Medical Park. What is the Hair Shaft? https://medicalparkinternational.com/en-us/Pages/what-is-the-shaft-of-the-hair.aspx
Nature. Hydrophobicity: Two faces of water. https://www.nature.com/articles/417491a
Scientific American. Mixing It Up With Oil and Water. https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/mix-it-up-with-oil-and-water/#:~:text=In%20fact%2C%20oils%20are%20hydrophobic,t%20mix%20with%20each%20other
