Let’s answer your question right away. Is olive oil good for low porosity hair? No, it is not good for low porosity hair. Olive oil is too heavy and sits on top of your hair strands. This makes your hair greasy and weighed down instead of moisturized.
But don’t worry, the solution is easy!
Keep reading to know the best and worst oils for your hair. We recommend products that you can use instead.
What Are the Signs of Low Porosity Hair?
How do you know if you even have low porosity hair? Your hair type and how your hair behaves is a big signs. Here are common signs of low porosity hair:
- Products just sit there. You see little beads of cream or water on your hair strands long after you’ve applied them.
- It takes a long time to get wet. In the shower, does it feel like water just runs off your hair?
- It takes forever to dry. Once your hair is finally wet, it holds onto water for a very long time.
- You get a build-up easily. Instead of sinking in, products quickly build up. Your hair feels waxy or greasy.
These low porosity hair characteristics mean your hair has a hard time letting moisture in.
Why Olive Oil Doesn’t Work For Low Porosity Hair
On low porosity hair, your strands are packed very, very tightly together. Olive oil is heavy and is made up of bigger molecules. These molecules are unable to get inside the tightly sealed hair strand.
Instead of moisturizing from within, the oil creates a thick, greasy coating on the outside. The wrong hair products weigh your hair down. This can even block real moisture (water) from ever getting in.
The Worst Oils for Low Porosity Hair
To keep your hair light and bouncy, it’s best to stay away from certain popular hair oils. This includes:
- Olive Oil: It’s just too heavy and will coat your hair instead of helping it.
- Coconut Oil: Using coconut oil on low porosity hair is a common mistake. It can build up easily and even make some hair types feel stiff and brittle.
- Castor Oil: This oil is extremely thick. It’s much too heavy for low porosity hair and will leave it feeling greasy and limp.
- Raw Shea Butter: While shea butter is amazing in professionally made products, using it in its pure, raw form is often too heavy and will weigh your hair down.
The Best Lightweight Oils for Happy Curls
So, what should you use instead? The secret is to use lightweight sealing oils for hair. The best oils have smaller molecules. These seal in moisture without the greasy effects.
Here are some of the best choices:
- Grapeseed Oil: This oil is super light and won’t feel greasy at all. It’s perfect for adding shine.
- Jojoba Oil: This amazing oil is very similar to the natural oils your scalp produces, so your hair loves it.
- Argan Oil: Argan oil reduces frizz and adds a beautiful shine, all while feeling weightless.
- Sweet Almond Oil: This oil is great for sealing in moisture and is full of Vitamin E.
How to Moisturize Low Porosity Hair the Right Way
Using the right oil is only half the battle. How you use it is just as important. Knowing how to moisturize low porosity hair correctly will change your routine forever.
Water First, Always. Oil seals, but water moisturizes. Always apply oils to damp or wet hair to lock in that water.
Use a Little Heat. When you use a deep conditioner, try wearing a shower cap or a warm towel for a few minutes. Gentle heat helps open up that tight cuticle just enough to let the products in.
A Little Goes a Long Way. You only need a few drops of oil. Rub it between your palms and smooth it over your hair. Focus on the ends.
Top Products for Low Porosity Hair – Our Recommendations
Here are four amazing options from our collection that are perfect for low porosity hair.
For a Gentle Cleanse: AG Care Curl Revive Hydrating Shampoo
Cleans your hair perfectly without stripping away its natural oils, which is key for preventing dryness.
For Lightweight Moisture: AG Care Curl Thrive Hydrating Conditioner
This conditioner gives you all the slip and moisture you need. But, it does not add any of the weight, thanks to light oils like Sunflower Seed Oil.
For Soft, Shiny Hair: Biotop Professional 700 Keratin & Kale Hair Repair Oil
PH-balanced formula is gentle enough for all hair types, including color-treated hair.
Final Thoughts
So, when you ask, is olive oil good for low porosity hair, you know it may be too heavy for you. You can simply swap heavy oils for lightweight ones. Remember to always put water first before other products. Explore our full collection of hair care and discover products your low porosity hair will truly love!
