Unlock the secret to luscious locks with the best oils for low porosity hair. From lightweight apricot kernel oil to deeply moisturizing argan oil, find your perfect match for nourished, hydrated hair.
What is the best oil for low porosity hair?
The Handcraft Blends Apricot kernel oil is the best for low porosity hair, especially as a pre-poo for hair as it is a lightweight oil that get absorbed easily into hair. Some other oils that are good for low porosity hair types 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.
Key Takeaways:
- Hair that has cuticles that lie very closely packed together are said to have “low porosity” as the structure of hair strands do not allow moisture and oils to penetrate them.
- Low porosity hair do not allow conditioners, serums or oils to penetrate the strands easily and make heavier products sit on top, making hair appear greasy
- This hair type needs lightweight, highly absorbent oils that penetrate hair cuticles easily.
- Some of the best oils for for low porosity hair include apricot kernel oil, jojoba oil, sweet almond oil, and argan oil.
- These oils have other properties such as being rich in vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, and more nutrients.
- Always pick brands that have pure, unadulterated oils from brands that guarantee cold-pressed, chemical-free formulations.
| 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 |
Top Oils for Low Porosity Hair 2024
Handcraft Blends Apricot Kernel Oil
Cold-pressed: Yes
Chemical-free: Yes
Apricot kernels are known to contain caffeic acid (2.5 μg/g) and gallic acid (4.1 μg/g), which have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effects as shown in the study by Akhone, Mansoor Ali et al. “Apricot Kernel: Bioactivity, Characterization, Applications, and Health Attributes.” Foods (Basel, Switzerland) vol. 11,15 2184. 22 Jul. 2022, doi:10.3390/foods11152184.
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 which according to the Centre for the Prevention and Control of Diseases (CDC) is a type of solvent for oils that is linked to birth defects and detrimental to reproductive health.
Now coming to the bad part. I could find nothing wrong with the oil itself. However, I would be wary if you have apricot allergies.
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 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: Is using Hot Oil Treatments Good For Low Porosity Hair
- Related: Can I use Rice Water For 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
Plant Therapy Fractionated Coconut Oil
Cold-pressed: Doesn’t mention
Chemical-free: Yes
Usually, coconut oil isn’t preferred for low porosity hair, However, 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.
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
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
- Related: Moisturizing Co Wash Products For Low Porosity Hair
- Related: Tips for making Low Porosity Hair grow longer
MAJESTIC PURE Avocado Oil on Low Porosity Hair
MAJESTIC PURE Avocado 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 is 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
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: