Whether your hair is classified as having high porosity due to genetics or damage from heat styling and chemical exposure, knowing how to care for it is vital. Hair product brand Clever Curl explains that high porosity hair can lead to frizz, tangling, and dryness if not properly cared for. As a rule of thumb, this kind of hair requires extra nourishment because it loses so much hydration through its cuticle positioning. Start by incorporating products that are rich in moisture and protein into your haircare routine. In particular, Clever Curl advocates for products that contain anti-humectants as these seal the hair cuticles, preventing them from losing excess moisture.

Naturally Curly also suggests using protein treatments on your hair, as the protein temporarily fills the holes in the hair shaft. This works to make high porosity hair stronger, but it should only be used once a month at most. On the other hand, high porosity hair can benefit from deep-conditioning products every wash, along with butter and oil-based seals to lock in hydration. You can also purchase gels specifically designed for high porosity hair, such as the Curltivate High Porosity Nourish – Styling Gel. These products will fend off dryness by keeping the moisture from escaping the hair shaft.