An "express" product with a much shorter application time before rinsing than a mask, the primary function of a conditioner is to detangle the hair to facilitate the upcoming styling stage. But when should this type of treatment be used? Elements of the answer in this article.
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When should a conditioner be used?
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Published June 14, 2022,
updated on July 22, 2024,
by
Maylis, Chemical Engineer
—
4 min read
Topics:
What is a conditioner?
The conditioner is a conditioning agent typically composed of ingredients such as silicones (excluded at Typology), oils and emollients, as well as cationic surfactants (detergent compounds that remove greasy substances). Once combined, these ingredients serve to rehydrate the hair after it has been partially dehydrated by the shampoo.
When should one use a conditioner?
The conditioner is used in conjunction with cleansing treatments, immediately after the shampoo. The use of a conditioner is recommended for all hair types. It is applied to the lengths and ends of the hair. Once applied, it requires a setting time of about one minute (still respect the time indicated on your treatment).
The conditioner can be used with every wash. Like shampoo, the conditioner can be used in the morning or in the evening, depending on the routine. Its frequency of use, however, will vary depending on the hair type.
On fine hair
For the maintenance of fine, but voluminous hair, it is recommended to use a conditioner every 2 days. This will facilitate detangling while avoiding frizz. We advise combing the hair immediately after applying the conditioner. For fine hair lacking volume, it is preferable to use a volumising conditioner 2 to 3 times a week.
On thick hair
Thick hair requires deep hydration. It should be used with every shampoo, that is to say 1 to 2 times per week. To allow it to work deeply, its application time can be extended to 3 or even 5 minutes.
On dry hair
Excessive styling is one of the reasons why hair becomes dry. The use of conditioner will help to nourish and untangle the knots in the hair. The conditioner should be used regularly, 1 to 2 times per week, to hydrate the hair.
Why use a conditioner?
The primary benefit of a conditioner is none other than to facilitate the detangling of hair! Indeed, its application to the hair fibre will limit the formation of knots and make styling easier. It is particularly useful for wavy, curly or even frizzy hair that tends to frizz. It will help to preserve the appearance of curls. In natural care, several detangling compounds can be added: biodegradable ingredients derived from plant sources such as beetroot and rapeseed (INCI: "Arachidyl/Behenyl Alcohol"), cetyl alcohol (INCI: "Cetyl Alcohol"), flaxseed extract (INCI: "Linum Usitatissimum seed extract"). For most conditioners, the benefits stop there. However, some may contain active ingredients, making it similar to a hair mask such as keratin, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, aloe vera....
Sources
Draelos ZD. Essentials of hair care often overlooked: Hair cleansing. Department of Dermatology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA, (2010).
D'Souza P, et al. Shampoo and Conditioners: What Should a Dermatologist Know? (2015).
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