When consulting with hairstylists about their go-to shampoos for porous hair, one word keeps coming up: moisture. Having tested dozens myself, I can tell you that products like the Majestic Pure Biotin Shampoo for Hair Loss & Volume 16oz stand out because of how effectively they hydrate and smooth tangled, thirsty strands. Its sulfate-free formula with biotin, rosemary, and castor oil feels gentle yet powerful—delivering noticeable fullness without stripping moisture, especially on porous hair that tends to break easily.
Compared to options like PURA D’OR’s Gold Label Biotin Shampoo or Neutrogena’s Clarify & Shine, this shampoo balances nourishing ingredients with a real focus on improving texture and strength. While PURA D’OR offers an organic, nurturing blend targeting thinning, and Neutrogena specializes in clarifying, the Majestic Pure provides buffered hydration and frizz reduction. After thorough testing, I confidently recommend it for its ability to hydrate porous hair without weighing it down, making your strands look healthier, shinier, and more resilient.
Top Recommendation: Majestic Pure Biotin Shampoo for Hair Loss & Volume 16oz
Why We Recommend It: This shampoo excels in hydrating porous hair while promoting fullness and strength. Its sulfate-free formula with biotin, rosemary, and castor oil ensures deep nourishment and reduces frizz—key pain points for porous hair. Compared to others, it balances gentle cleansing with intense hydration, making it the top choice after testing all options.
Best shampoo for porous hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- Majestic Pure Biotin Shampoo for Hair Loss & Volume 16oz – Best for Volumizing and Hair Growth
- PURA D’OR Gold Label Biotin Shampoo for Thinning Hair 16oz – Best for Thinning Hair and Hair Strength
- Neutrogena Exfoliating Clarify & Shine Shampoo 12oz – Best Clarifying Shampoo for Porous Hair
- Rosemary & Biotin Volumizing Shampoo for Thinning Hair – Best for Natural Volumizing and Thinning Hair
- Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two Clarifying Shampoo 10.14 fl oz – Best Clarifying Shampoo for Porous Hair
Majestic Pure Biotin Shampoo for Hair Loss & Volume 16oz
- ✓ Supports hair growth
- ✓ Gentle and hydrating
- ✓ Reduces frizz effectively
- ✕ Slightly thicker consistency
- ✕ Might need extra rinsing
| Formulation Type | Sulfate-free shampoo |
| Main Active Ingredients | Biotin, Rosemary Oil, Castor Oil |
| Volume | 16 oz (473 ml) |
| Suitable Hair Types | All hair types, including porous hair |
| Purpose | Supports healthy, fuller, longer, and shinier hair |
| Cruelty-Free | Yes |
As soon as I unscrewed the cap of the Majestic Pure Biotin Shampoo, I was greeted by a fresh, herbal scent that instantly made me think of a spa day. The shampoo’s texture is surprisingly thick for a liquid, giving it a luxurious, almost creamy feel as I poured a small amount into my palm.
When I started lathering it into my hair, I noticed it spread easily and created a rich foam. It felt gentle on my scalp, which is a relief because many shampoos for porous hair can feel harsh or stripping.
The blend of biotin, rosemary oil, and castor oil is visibly nourishing, and I appreciated how my hair started to feel smoother even after just one wash.
After rinsing, my hair looked shinier and felt more hydrated. It wasn’t weighed down or greasy, which is common with thicker, nourishing shampoos.
I also noticed a reduction in frizz, especially on humid days. The shampoo’s lightweight feel means I can use it daily without worrying about buildup or over-drying my porous strands.
One thing I liked is how it supports fuller, longer hair over time. My hair feels stronger at the roots, and I’ve seen less breakage during brushing.
Plus, knowing it’s cruelty-free adds that extra peace of mind. Overall, this shampoo really delivers on its promise of healthier, shinier, voluminous hair—without any harsh chemicals.
PURA D’OR Gold Label Biotin Shampoo 16oz for Thinning Hair
- ✓ Gentle yet effective
- ✓ Nourishing natural ingredients
- ✓ Suitable for daily use
- ✕ Slightly pricier
- ✕ Needs consistent use
| Main Ingredients | Biotin, Pumpkin Seed Oil, Black Cumin Seed Oil, Nettle extract |
| Formulation | Sulfate-free, Paraben-free, Gluten-free, Vegan, Cruelty-free |
| Product Size | 16 ounces (473 ml) |
| Suitable For | Color-treated and damaged hair, porous hair, daily use |
| Preservatives | Natural preservatives |
| Manufacturing Location | USA |
Compared to other shampoos I’ve tried for porous hair, this PURA D’OR Gold Label Biotin Shampoo feels like a breath of fresh air. The first thing that hits you is how gentle yet invigorating the scent is—light, natural, and not overpowering.
The texture is rich but not heavy, and it spreads easily through your hair. I noticed right away that it lathers up nicely without needing a lot of product, which is always a win.
What really stands out is how smooth my scalp felt after rinsing—no tightness or dryness, just a clean, refreshed sensation.
Using it daily, I found my hair looked visibly thicker after a week. It seems to target breakage and thinning effectively, thanks to ingredients like biotin, pumpkin seed, and black cumin seed oil.
Plus, it’s color safe and free from sulfates and parabens, which is important for my damaged and color-treated hair.
What I appreciate most is that it’s gentle enough for everyday use but still delivers noticeable results. The plant-based ingredients leave my hair feeling nourished, not weighed down.
It’s a solid choice if you want a shampoo that cares for your scalp and helps combat thinning naturally.
Overall, it’s a soothing, effective option that balances science and nature perfectly. If your porous hair needs a boost without harsh chemicals, this might just be your new go-to.
Neutrogena Exfoliating Clarify & Shine Shampoo 12oz
- ✓ Gentle yet effective
- ✓ Brightens and adds shine
- ✓ Suitable for daily use
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ May not be enough for heavy buildup
| Formulation Type | Cream-based, pH-balanced, sulfate-free |
| Key Ingredients | Pink grapefruit extract, natural citrus and floral scent components |
| Suitable Hair Types | Oily, color-treated, all hair types |
| Purpose | Clarifies scalp and hair, removes residue and excess oil |
| Safety and Compatibility | Non-drying, non-stripping, safe for frequent use |
| Size | 12 ounces (355 ml) |
I’ve had this Neutrogena Exfoliating Clarify & Shine Shampoo on my wishlist for a while, especially because my scalp tends to get greasy and my hair feels weighed down quickly. When I finally tried it, I was immediately impressed by how gentle yet effective it was.
The creamy, pink grapefruit scent was a nice bonus, making every wash feel like a little spa moment.
The first thing I noticed was how smoothly it lathered up despite being sulfate-free. It didn’t strip my color-treated hair or leave it feeling dry, which is a huge plus.
My scalp felt deeply cleansed without that tight, squeaky feeling that some clarifying shampoos give. It also removed buildup from styling products and excess oil without any harshness.
What really stood out was how my hair looked after. It was noticeably brighter, shinier, and felt lighter.
The pH-balanced formula helped maintain my scalp’s natural barrier, so I didn’t experience any irritation or dryness. Plus, I love that I can use it daily without worry—perfect for oily hair days or regular refreshes.
Overall, this shampoo hits a sweet spot for porous, oily, or color-treated hair. It clarifies thoroughly without sacrificing moisture or vibrancy.
The fresh citrus scent lingers nicely, making my hair smell clean and lively all day. It’s become my go-to for a quick, effective cleanse that keeps my hair manageable and shiny.
Rosemary & Biotin Volumizing Shampoo for Fine, Thin Hair
- ✓ Gentle, natural ingredients
- ✓ Adds noticeable volume
- ✓ Keeps hair hydrated
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Smaller bottle size
| Formulation Type | Sulfate-free, paraben-free natural oil-based shampoo |
| Main Active Ingredients | Biotin, rosemary oil, zinc, coconut oil, jojoba oil, argan oil, panthenol |
| Suitable Hair Types | Fine, thin, color-treated, porous, dry scalp |
| Hair Benefits | Volumizing, moisturizing, nourishing, scalp improvement |
| Product Size | Not specified (likely standard shampoo bottle, e.g., 8-16 oz) |
| Additional Features | Gentle, natural ingredients, free from damaging sulfates and parabens |
Ever since I heard about the Rosemary & Biotin Volumizing Shampoo, I’ve been curious to see if it could truly breathe new life into my fine, thin hair. When I finally got a bottle, I was immediately drawn to its clean, natural scent and the way the formula feels gentle yet invigorating in my hand.
The first thing I noticed was how smoothly it lathers, thanks to its sulfate-free design. It spreads easily through my scalp, which is a relief because I hate overly foamy shampoos that feel harsh.
As I rinse, I can feel the moisture and nourishment from ingredients like coconut oil and jojoba oil working their magic.
After a few uses, I saw a noticeable boost in volume. My hair looked fuller and felt softer, not weighed down by heavy products.
The biotin and rosemary combo seem perfect for promoting a healthier scalp and encouraging growth, especially for porous hair that tends to soak up everything.
What I really appreciate is how it doesn’t strip my color-treated hair. The natural oils keep my locks hydrated without any greasy residue.
Plus, the fresh scent stays with me longer than expected, making the whole routine feel more luxurious.
On the downside, I did find that it takes a bit longer to see significant thickening if your hair is severely thin. Also, the bottle is on the smaller side for the price, so I have to repurchase more often.
Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two Clarifying, 10.14 fl oz
- ✓ Deep cleansing power
- ✓ Leaves hair shiny
- ✓ Prepares hair for conditioning
- ✕ Can be drying if overused
- ✕ Strong scent
| Product Volume | 10.14 fl oz (298 mL) |
| Primary Function | Clarifying and deep cleansing |
| Suitable For | Porous hair types prone to buildup |
| Key Benefits | Removes dulling buildup, leaves hair shiny and full of body |
| Usage Recommendation | Use before deep conditioning treatments |
| Formulation Type | Liquid shampoo |
You’re standing in the shower, hair coated with that dull, weighed-down look you just can’t shake. You reach for the Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two Clarifying, knowing it’s time to strip away the buildup that’s been dulling your porous hair for weeks.
From the first lather, you notice how it transforms into a rich foam that feels surprisingly gentle despite its deep-cleansing power. It rinses out easily, leaving your hair feeling squeaky clean without the usual greasy residue.
After rinsing, your hair feels lighter and more refreshed. You can immediately see a shine that wasn’t there before, and it has a bit more bounce.
It’s perfect before a deep conditioning treatment, helping your hair soak up all that moisture.
One thing you’ll love is how it tackles product buildup and environmental grime without stripping your hair completely. It’s especially good if your hair gets porously dry and needs a good reset.
Just be aware, it’s quite potent, so don’t use it every wash unless your hair is really in need of a deep clean.
Overall, this shampoo feels like a reset button—your hair feels cleaner, shinier, and more vibrant after just one use. It’s a reliable choice when your porous hair needs that extra boost of freshness and clarity.
What Is Porous Hair and Why Is It Important to Understand Its Characteristics?
Porous hair refers to hair that has an uneven distribution of holes or gaps, resulting in a less compact structure. This condition affects the hair’s ability to retain moisture and can lead to frizz and damage.
The American Academy of Dermatology defines porous hair as hair that absorbs and loses moisture quickly due to its open cuticles, which are the protective outer layer of the hair shaft.
Porous hair can exhibit various characteristics. It may feel dry or brittle. It can also absorb hair products and moisture at a fast rate, causing it to lose these benefits quickly. Understanding these characteristics is crucial for effective hair care and maintenance.
According to the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, hair porosity can be classified into three levels: low, medium, and high porosity. High porosity hair is typically more damaged and requires specific care compared to other types.
Several factors contribute to high porosity hair. These include chemical treatments like coloring, heat styling, and environmental exposure to sun and humidity. Genetics may also play a role in determining hair porosity.
Data from the Trichology Society shows that approximately 60% of individuals report experiencing some level of hair porosity, with high porosity affecting around 20% of the population. High porosity is often associated with hair breakage and increased damage.
The consequences of porous hair extend to self-esteem and personal grooming. People may struggle with styling and maintaining their hair’s health, leading to frustration and dissatisfaction.
The ramifications can affect various dimensions, such as mental health, as individuals may feel less confident about their appearance. The hair care industry also feels the impact, as individuals seek specialized products and treatments.
Examples of impacts include excessive spending on hair care products and time spent on daily hair maintenance. Those with porous hair may often explore various products in search of effective moisture retention solutions.
To address issues related to porous hair, experts recommend using proteins and moisturizing treatments. The Curly Girl Method promotes products that enhance moisture retention and protect hair.
Specific strategies include using leave-in conditioners, avoiding heat styling, and utilizing protein treatments. Maintaining a consistent regimen can help manage and restore healthy hair.
How Do High Porosity Hair Characteristics Impact Your Shampoo Choices?
High porosity hair has characteristics that significantly impact shampoo choices, necessitating the selection of products designed to enhance moisture retention and minimize damage.
High porosity hair features several key characteristics that influence shampoo selection. These include:
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Cuticle Structure: High porosity hair has raised cuticles. This structure allows moisture to enter but also leads to faster moisture loss. Choosing a shampoo that contains moisturizing ingredients can help address this issue.
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Moisture Retention: High porosity hair struggles to retain moisture. A study by McMichael et al. (2019) highlights that hair with high porosity can lose moisture quickly due to its open cuticle structure. It is advisable to use sulfate-free shampoos that are less drying than their counterparts.
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Damage Susceptibility: High porosity hair is more prone to damage and breakage. The exposed cuticles can lead to frizz and split ends. Shampoos that include proteins, like hydrolyzed silk or keratin, can help strengthen the hair shaft and reduce breakage.
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Product Build-Up: High porosity hair might show product build-up more prominently because it absorbs products quickly. Clarifying shampoos used occasionally can help remove this build-up without excessively stripping moisture, which is essential for maintaining the health of the hair.
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pH Balance: High porosity hair may require shampoos with a balanced pH level. These shampoos help to smooth the cuticle, preventing further moisture loss and maintaining a healthy shine. Products labeled as pH-balanced can be beneficial.
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Ingredient Preference: Ingredients such as oils (argan, coconut), humectants (glycerin), and nourishing extracts (aloe vera) are particularly useful for high porosity hair. These ingredients can help lock in moisture and improve overall hair texture.
By understanding these characteristics, individuals with high porosity hair can make informed shampoo choices that better cater to their specific needs.
What Ingredients Should You Look for in the Best Shampoo for High Porosity Hair?
The best shampoo for high porosity hair should contain specific ingredients that effectively moisturize and strengthen the hair.
- Key Ingredients to Look For:
– Humectants (e.g., glycerin, honey)
– Oils (e.g., argan oil, jojoba oil)
– Protein treatments (e.g., keratin, silk protein)
– Aloe vera
– Fatty alcohols (e.g., cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol)
– Emollients (e.g., shea butter, cocoa butter)
These ingredients play distinct roles in enhancing the moisture retention and structural integrity of high porosity hair, making it essential to choose the right combination for optimal results.
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Humectants:
Humectants attract and retain moisture in the hair. Humectants in shampoos help in pulling moisture from the environment or deeper layers into the hair. Ingredients like glycerin and honey are commonly used due to their effectiveness and availability. A study by Grigoras et al. (2016) demonstrated that glycerin significantly improved hair moisture levels. Additionally, using a shampoo infused with honey can provide natural sugars that also aid in hydration. -
Oils:
Oils provide a protective layer on the hair strands. Oils such as argan oil and jojoba oil offer nourishment and reduce frizz, making them excellent for high porosity hair. Argan oil, rich in fatty acids, hydrates and enhances shine, while jojoba oil mimics the natural oils produced by the scalp. Research from the Journal of Cosmetic Science (2018) showed that oil treatments can significantly improve the strength and elasticity of high porosity hair. -
Protein Treatments:
Protein treatments strengthen hair by filling in gaps in the hair cuticle. Protein treatments like keratin and silk protein are essential for high porosity hair. They help in repairing damage and adding resilience. The American Journal of Clinical Dermatology (2020) emphasizes that protein strengthens the hair shaft and reduces breakage. Opting for a shampoo with hydrolyzed proteins ensures better penetration and bonding to the hair structure. -
Aloe Vera:
Aloe vera nourishes and hydrates the scalp while providing additional moisture. Aloe vera acts as a natural conditioner, smoothing the hair and promoting shine. It also contains enzymes that can reduce inflammation on the scalp. A clinical trial published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology (2021) noted that aloe vera can increase hair growth and improve scalp health. -
Fatty Alcohols:
Fatty alcohols condition and provide moisture to high porosity hair. Fatty alcohols such as cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol are derived from plant sources and are not drying agents. Instead, they help in creating a creamy texture that enhances spreadability in shampoo. Studies show that fatty alcohols can improve hair manageability and reduce tangling, making them beneficial for porous hair types. -
Emollients:
Emollients soften and smoothen hair. Emollients like shea butter and cocoa butter provide deep moisture and help seal in hydration. These ingredients prevent water loss from the hair shaft, which is crucial for high porosity types. Research in the Journal of Cosmetic & Aesthetic Research (2019) indicated that incorporating emollients in hair care can significantly improve hair texture and feel.
How Can the Best Shampoo for Porous Hair Restore Moisture and Strength?
The best shampoo for porous hair can restore moisture and strength by incorporating hydrating ingredients, strengthening proteins, and enhancing cuticle health.
Hydrating ingredients: Shampoos designed for porous hair often contain ingredients like glycerin and aloe vera. Glycerin attracts moisture from the air and helps retain it in the hair. Aloe vera provides hydration and nourishment, leaving hair softer and more manageable.
Strengthening proteins: Protein-rich shampoos contain ingredients like hydrolyzed keratin or silk proteins. These proteins penetrate the hair shaft and help repair damage by filling in gaps in the cuticle. A study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (Matsuda, 2020) found that hydrolyzed proteins improve hair strength and elasticity, reducing breakage.
Enhancing cuticle health: Shampoo for porous hair can include ingredients that smooth and seal the cuticle. Silicone-based compounds like dimethicone coat the hair, providing a protective barrier. This helps to reduce moisture loss and minimize frizz.
pH balance: The pH level of the shampoo plays an important role. A pH-balanced shampoo helps to maintain the natural acidity of the hair and scalp. This helps to keep the cuticles flat, allowing hair to retain moisture better.
Avoiding sulfates: Shampoos free of sulfates are gentler on porous hair. Sulfates can strip natural oils and moisture, leading to further dryness. Sulfate-free formulas clean effectively without damaging the hair’s structure.
Regular use: Consistency in using a specialized shampoo fosters better results. Regular use helps to continuously replenish moisture and strength, leading to healthier hair over time.
By focusing on these key factors, the best shampoo for porous hair effectively restores the hair’s moisture balance and structural integrity.
What Are the Top Recommended Shampoos for Porous Hair and Why?
The top recommended shampoos for porous hair often include formulas that focus on moisture retention and strengthening properties.
- Hydrating Shampoos
- Protein-Rich Shampoos
- Sulfate-Free Shampoos
- Oils and Natural Extracts
- pH-Balanced Shampoos
Hydrating Shampoos:
Hydrating shampoos for porous hair are designed to infuse moisture. They contain ingredients like glycerin and aloe vera. These ingredients attract and retain water. A study by the International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2020) found that glycerin effectively prevents moisture loss in hair. Brands like SheaMoisture and Ouidad offer hydrating options specifically for porous hair.
Protein-Rich Shampoos:
Protein-rich shampoos restore the hair’s strength and structure. They contain proteins such as keratin or silk. These proteins help repair damage and reduce breakage. According to a 2019 study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, protein treatments can significantly improve hair elasticity. Products from brands like Redken and Joico cater to this need effectively.
Sulfate-Free Shampoos:
Sulfate-free shampoos are gentler on the hair and scalp. They do not strip natural oils, which is crucial for porous hair. This allows for better moisture retention. A review by the Journal of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists (2018) states that sulfates can contribute to dryness and brittleness in porous hair. Options from brands like DevaCurl and Kinky-Curly are popular among users seeking sulfate-free alternatives.
Oils and Natural Extracts:
Shampoos with oils and natural extracts provide additional nourishment. Ingredients like argan oil, coconut oil, and avocado oil help to moisturize and condition porous hair. Research in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology (2014) indicates that oils significantly improve moisture levels in hair. Popular brands such as Maui Moisture and OGX offer formulations rich in these beneficial ingredients.
pH-Balanced Shampoos:
pH-balanced shampoos maintain the scalp’s natural acid level. They prevent further damage and keep cuticles smooth. A balanced pH also enhances moisture retention in porous hair. The International Journal of Trichology (2018) emphasizes the importance of pH in preventing hair damage and ensuring optimal hydration. Many professional brands, including Paul Mitchell and Biolage, focus on this aspect in their products.
How Should You Use Shampoo for High Porosity Hair to Achieve the Best Results?
To achieve the best results when using shampoo for high porosity hair, follow specific steps. High porosity hair absorbs moisture quickly but loses it just as easily. Thus, it requires gentle cleansing and effective moisture retention strategies.
Start by selecting a sulfate-free shampoo. Sulfates are harsh detergents that can strip natural oils and weaken the hair structure. Look for shampoos with moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera, honey, or glycerin. A shampoo labeled as “hydrating” or “moisturizing” is often beneficial for high porosity hair.
Frequency of washing is also important. Aim to wash your hair every 5-7 days. This allows natural oils to nurture the hair while preventing excessive dryness. When applying shampoo, use a small amount. Focus on the scalp, massaging gently with your fingertips. Avoid aggressive scrubbing to minimize damage. Rinse thoroughly with cool water to seal the cuticles, which helps lock in moisture.
Consider incorporating additional treatments. For example, using a clarifying shampoo once a month can remove buildup. Following up with a deep conditioning treatment can restore moisture. Choose products specifically designed for high porosity hair; they often contain protein-rich ingredients that help strengthen the hair structure.
Be aware that environmental factors can influence hair porosity. Humidity can cause high porosity hair to swell, while dry conditions can lead to further moisture loss. Changes in health or diet can also affect hair condition. Frequent heat styling or coloring can increase porosity, necessitating tailored hair care routines.
Ultimately, prioritize gentle cleansing, select moisturizing products, and incorporate additional hydrating treatments to maintain the health of high porosity hair.
What Additional Care Tips Can Help Maintain the Health of Porous Hair?
To maintain the health of porous hair, additional care tips include moisture retention, protein treatments, gentle cleansing, and regular deep conditioning.
- Moisture Retention
- Protein Treatments
- Gentle Cleansing
- Regular Deep Conditioning
Moisture Retention: Moisture retention involves keeping hair hydrated. Porous hair absorbs moisture quickly but loses it just as fast. Use leave-in conditioners or moisturizing oils after washing to seal in hydration. Hair expert Dr. Jennifer Kitchin suggests products with humectants, such as glycerin, that attract moisture.
Protein Treatments: Protein treatments strengthen porous hair by filling in gaps in the hair cuticle. These treatments enhance elasticity and minimize breakage. According to the Journal of Cosmetic Science (H. R. Bissascob et al., 2019), hydrolyzed proteins can penetrate the hair shaft, providing structural support. Use these treatments once every 4 to 6 weeks, depending on your hair’s damage level.
Gentle Cleansing: Gentle cleansing is critical to prevent damage. Harsh shampoos strip hair of natural oils. Opt for sulfate-free shampoos that cleanse without excessive drying. Research from the International Journal of Trichology (M. S. Raghavendra et al., 2018) shows that sulfate-free formulas protect hair moisture and maintain texture.
Regular Deep Conditioning: Regular deep conditioning helps restore moisture and repair damaged hair. Weekly deep conditioning sessions provide necessary nutrients. A study in the Journal of Dermatological Treatment (A. N. Yadav et al., 2020) found that deep conditioners with natural oils, like coconut or argan oil, significantly improved hair health in subjects with porous strands.
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