The Correct Way to Use Conditioner For Best Results

Conditioner: the unsung hero of hair care. Hair conditioner is a haircare product used after shampooing. It acts like a detangling lotion, adding moisture and shine to hair strands. By coating the hair shaft and smoothing the outer layer, conditioner makes hair feel softer, prevents breakage, and leaves it more manageable and frizz-free. Often overshadowed by its flashy counterpart, shampoo, conditioner plays a vital role in maintaining healthy, luscious hair. But are you using it correctly? If you’re not sure, don’t worry, in this article, we’ll be telling you the correct way to use conditioner for the best results.

Understanding the Basics: To Rinse Out or Leave in?

First things first: how do you know if a conditioner is meant to be rinsed out or not? It’s simple. Observe the instructions on the bottle to get a clue as to what you should do. If the label says “rinse out after washing,” that means the conditioner is designed to be left on for a few minutes and then rinsed out thoroughly. On the other hand, if the product is labeled “leave-in conditioner,” it’s not meant to be rinsed out after application.

Regular Rinse-Out Conditioners

Regular rinse-out conditioners are your everyday go-to for soft, manageable hair after shampooing. Here’s how to use them effectively:

1. Shampoo First: Begin by shampooing your hair to remove any dirt, oil, and product buildup.
2. Apply Conditioner: After patting your hair of the excess water, squeeze a generous amount of conditioner into your palm and apply it to your damp hair. The amount you apply will vary depending on the length and thickness of your hair. Start from the mid-lengths to the ends, avoiding the scalp, as conditioner is designed for moisturizing and softening your strands only.
3. Massage and Wait: Gently massage the conditioner into your hair, ensuring every strand is coated. Allow the conditioner to work its magic for a few minutes. This time allows the ingredients to penetrate the hair shaft, providing nourishment and hydration.
4. Rinse Thoroughly: Once the waiting game is over, rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water. Make sure no residue is left behind, as leftover conditioner can leave your hair feeling heavy, sticky and loaded with buildup once it dries.

Deep Conditioners

For an extra boost of hydration and repair, turn to deep conditioners. These intensive treatments penetrate deeper into the hair shaft, providing long-lasting moisture and nourishment. Here’s how to indulge in a deep conditioning session:

1. Prep Your Hair: Start with clean, damp hair. You can either shampoo your hair beforehand or simply wet it with water.
2. Apply Deep Conditioner: Scoop out a generous amount of deep conditioner and distribute it evenly throughout your hair. Focus on the mid-lengths to the ends, where the hair is often most damaged.
3. Wrap and Relax: Once applied, cover your hair with a plastic cap (shower cap) and cover it with a towel to create a warm, steamy environment. Alternatively, you can sit under a hooded dryer to generate heat during deep conditioning. This helps open up the hair cuticles, allowing the conditioner to penetrate deeply. Leave the deep conditioner on for at least 15–30 minutes, or longer for an extra pampering session.
4. Rinse and Revel: After the designated time has passed, rinse out the deep conditioner thoroughly with lukewarm water. Prepare to be amazed by the silky smoothness and softness of your natural hair.

Leave-In Conditioners

Leave-in conditioners are the multitaskers of the hair care world, providing continuous hydration and protection throughout the day. You can use leave-in conditioners daily to ease styling or give your hair a boost of moisture when it’s dry. Here’s how to incorporate them into your routine:

1. Cleanse and Towel Dry: Start with freshly washed and towel-dried hair. Your hair should be damp but not dripping wet.
2. Apply Leave-In Conditioner: Spray or distribute a small amount of leave-in conditioner evenly throughout your hair, focusing on the mid-lengths to the ends. Avoid the roots to prevent them from weighing down your hair.
3. Style as Desired: Style your hair as usual, whether you prefer to air dry or use heat styling tools. Use a wide-toothed comb or your fingers to evenly distribute the conditioner to your strands so no white cast is left on your hair. Applying a leave-in conditioner to your strands regularly will provide added moisture and protection, leaving your hair looking and feeling its best all day long.

By mastering the art of conditioner and incorporating the right type into your hair care routine, you can achieve the soft, smooth strands you’ve always wanted.