As an "express" product with a much shorter leave-in time than a hair mask, a conditioner is primarily intended to detangle the hair to facilitate later styling. But when should you use this type of care? In this article, you will find the answer.
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When To Use a Conditioner?
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Published March 13, 2024,
by
Maylis, Chemical Engineer
—
4 min read
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What Is a Conditioner?
A conditioner is a hair care product that usually consists of ingredients such as silicones (excluded in Typology’s products), oils, emollients, and cationic surfactants ("cleansing compounds" that remove grease). When combined, these ingredients can restore moisture to hair after it has been partially dehydrated by shampoo.
When Should You Use a Conditioner?
A conditioner is used as a supplement directly used after shampooing. The use of a conditioner is recommended for all hair types. It is applied to the lengths and ends of the hair. After application, it needs about a minute of exposure time (still follow the time instructions on your hair care).
The conditioner can be used every time you wash your hair. Like the shampoo, the conditioner can be used in the morning or evening depending on your routine. The frequency of use depends on your hair type.
For fine hair
For fine but voluminous hair, you can use conditioner every second day. This will make it easier to comb, as it will prevent frizz. We recommend combing the hair directly after applying the conditioner. For fine hair that lacks volume, you should use a volumizing conditioner 2–3 times a week.
For thick hair
Thick hair requires a deep moisturizing conditioner. This should be used with every hair wash, 1–2 times a week. To achieve a in-depth effect, the application time can be extended to 3 or even 5 minutes.
For dry hair
Excessive styling is one of the reasons why hair becomes dry. Using a conditioner helps to nourish and detangle the knots in the hair. Conditioner should be used regularly, 1–2 times a week, to moisturize the hair.
Why Should You Use a Conditioner?
The main benefit of conditioner is that it makes hair easier to comb. When you apply it to the hair fiber, the formation of knots is reduced and the hair is easier to comb. This is especially helpful for wavy, curly or even frizzy hair that is prone to frizz. It will help maintain the appearance of the curls. Several detangling compounds can be added in natural conditioners: biodegradable ingredients from plant sources such as beet and canola (INCI: "Arachidyl/Behenyl Alcohol"), cetyl alcohol (INCI: "Cetyl Alcohol"), extract from flaxseed (INCI: "Linum Usitatissimum seed extract"). For most conditioners, the benefits end there. Still, some may contain active ingredients, making them similar to a hair mask, such as keratin, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, aloe vera…
Sources
Draelos ZD. Essentials of hair care often neglected: Hair cleansing. Department of Dermatology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA, (2010).
D'Souza P, et al. Shampoo and conditioners: What a dermatologist should know? (2015).
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