Do you know if you’re using the right conditioner for your hair? Hair conditioner is designed to smooth, restore moisture, and help you say goodbye to frizzy hair. However, there are so many options and multiple hair types, finding the perfect conditioner can be tough. The wrong one could weigh down your hair or leave you with static, dry, or brittle hair.
There Are Three Main Types Of Conditioner
Rinse-Out
The most common type of conditioner, rinse-out conditioner is the one you grab for in the shower. It is meant to be worked through the ends of your hair, left in for a few minutes, then rinsed out. When using this conditioner, avoid applying it to the roots of your hair, as this could result in extra buildup and weigh the hair down.
Leave In
Leave in conditioners are used after the shower. Used for smoothening and de-tangling, they are light-weight and can be used as a styling product for silky, shiny tresses.
Deep Conditioners and Hair Masks
These products are great for repairing dry and damaged hair. With the intent to get down to the root and repair hair from the source, hair masks contain ingredients like oils and emulsifiers. Hair masks should be applied root to tip and left on for at least 30 minutes before rinsing.
Know Your Hair Type
Conditioner is typically used to replace moisture lost after shampooing. It smooths the cuticle and even the PH of your hair resulting in reduced tangling, increased shine, decreased static, and overall more manageable hair. However, hair conditioner isn’t a one-size-fits-all product. There are different types of conditioner for each hair type and they all do different things. Before choosing a conditioner, decide on what your hair most needs.
Overall, shampoo should be chosen based on scalp condition. Conditioner should be used to treat and enhance the condition of your hair. Thus, if your scalp is oily and your ends are dry, choose a shampoo that is suited for an oily scalp and a conditioner that is suited to hydrate dry ends.
Oily, Limp Hair
If your hair is oily or greasy, you may be tempted to skip conditioner altogether because it makes your hair feel worse. While some people can skip conditioner and be fine, there are some conditioners out that are suited to help oily hair. You just have to know what to look for. Avoid conditioners that are hydrating, moisturizing, smoothing, or good for curly hair. They will add too much moisture and cause your hair to be limp. Instead, look for labels that read volumizing, light, strengthening, or balancing. These products add protein, which is good for oily hair. They are also less moisturizing and more effective at removing excess oil.
When applying conditioner, stay away from your scalp and only apply to the midshaft/ends of your hair. Because oily hair is sometimes the result of conditioner that is not properly rinsed, spend extra time rinsing out your hair for a minimum of 30 seconds. If your hair is fine and oily, try using conditioner first, then shampoo.
Dry, Damaged, Dull or Brittle Hair
The right conditioner can make or break a good hair day for dry hair. Choose a conditioner that will help prevent future damage. Avoid strengthening, fortifying, and volumizing conditioners. You’ll need something that packs more of a punch. Look for labels that promote repair from damage, frizz control, good for colored hair, and ones that protect from heat damage. If you need extra moisture, look for a shampoo that promotes moisture, hydration, smoothing, balancing, or one that is for curly hair. These products add a moisture balance without adding too much to weigh your hair down. Deep conditioners should be used 1-4 times per month to repair damage and prevent future breakage.
If your hair isn’t oily or dry, you can choose a conditioner based on what you want your style to be.
- Volumizing Conditioner is great for fine or limp hair. It can also be used to give your style a boost and lift without being weighed down.
- Strengthening/Fortifying Conditioner should be used for damaged, over processed, highlighted, weak, or brittle hair.
- Hydrating/Moisturizing Conditioner adds moisture, shine, and smoothness to the hair. Curly or course hair will love these products.
- Balancing Conditioner is a nice middle-of-the-road product. They are not too moisturizing, but also won’t dry your hair out.
- Smoothing/Straight Hair Conditioner has extra moisturizers and smoothing agents. They will help seal the cuticle and provide smooth hair all day long.
- Curly Hair Conditioners are typically very moisturizing and have extra anti-frizz properties.
Great hair starts with a great haircut. LJ Hair Design is a small, intimate salon located in Niagara Falls, NY providing services for men, women, and children. From classic cuts to cutting edge, our experienced, professional stylists use the latest techniques, trends, and top of the line products to give you a look you’ll love.
