trebell I consider myself low porosity too (still don't think I really know but going by how my hair reacts to certain things). I used the aztec calcium bentonite for this regimen more than the other clays I've tried and I never had a problem with dryness, like some have. But now I tend to mix bentonite and rhassoul.
I'm not sure if some folks distinguish between the calcium bentonite and the sodium bentonite (which may attributed to dryness- especially over time).
Sorry if you've said it before (I've combed over this thread a few times, even though I've read the whole thing
) but what is your clay mix? And what's the consistency? I've never had an issue washing out my clay. Mine is kind of thick. It pours out of my bottle, but won't run easily through my fingers. The only time my hair felt coated after this step, was when I used coconut milk. And even then, it wasn't a bad feeling. My hair kind of felt stronger (but I also did a CLCT that day).
For step 1, I also alternated between the ACV and BS/ conditioner, but have used BS more often (I think).
Don't feel lost. We are all here trying to find our way, and help each other out. Hopefully you can get closer to nailing what the problem is.