Hair Conditioner: When, How, and Why Should Use It

Despite the extra five minutes, it takes while showering, conditioners are something we have all been told to use. Most of us have included it in our hair wash routines. But do you wonder why a conditioner is important? What does it do to your hair? And is it worth the investment? Here is all you need to know about conditioners and why they should be a vital part of your hair care regimen

What Is A Conditioner & What Does It Do? A conditioner is a mask-like creamy product, used to improve the texture of your hair. It is meant to hydrate and replenish your hair to make it appear softer. It also reduces friction between your strands of hair and makes it easier for you to brush it, post your hair wash. Every time you condition your hair, a layer is formed along your hair shaft, making it easier for you to manage and style it. Your conditioner is what gives your hair its shine post a hair wash.

How to Apply Hair Conditioner: 6 Steps

1. Rinse out all your shampoo thoroughly in the shower.
2. Don't apply conditioner to your scalp. Start applying the product from the shaft down to the edges.
3. Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers and run them down through your hair.
4. Leave the conditioner on for 1-2 minutes.
5. Rinse off completely. Don't leave any product on.

How Long Should You Leave Your Conditioner On For? If you're using a rinse-off conditioner, it should typically be left on for 2-3 minutes while you're in the shower. But, read the instructions given on the bottle of your conditioner for a better opinion. Some conditioners may take longer to get completely absorbed into your hair.

How much Conditioner Should You Use? Different brands suggest different amounts to be used, which is usually specified on the label. The amount of conditioner you use largely depends upon the thickness and length of your hair. Make sure that you don't miss out on any part of your hair, chin-down.

• • If you have short hair (above shoulder-length), use one dab of conditioner that typically is about the size of one blueberry.
  • If you have shoulder-length hair, use an amount that is equal to the size of two blueberries.
  • If you have long hair, depending on how long and thick your hair is, you should typically use an amount that is equal to the size of three blueberries.

Types of Conditioners Rinse-out conditioners This is the most common type, which most people use regularly. Rinse-out conditioners are typically applied to damp hair (normally after shampooing). The product is left on for a few minutes, following which it is rinsed off thoroughly. Rinse-out conditioners protect your hair cuticles from damage caused by heat as well.

Deep conditioners Deep conditioners are packed with hydrating properties, it can be used to treat dry and damaged hair. Essential oils, butter, and other moisturizing ingredients that help repair damaged and dry hair are popular options while making these conditioners. Deep conditioners are typically left on for about 30 minutes and rinsed off thoroughly.

Leave-in conditioners Leave-in conditioners don't weigh too much and form a protective layer on your hair. They are applied to your hair after showering and assist in keeping your hair soft. They also detangle the hair quickly, making it easier for you to style it.

Hair masks These are more like a face mask, intended to hydrate and nourish your hair. The product penetrates through the hair cuticles, nourishing it with protein and hydrating ingredients. A hair mask can be applied to your hair twice a week, for 15-20 minutes before rinsing it off.

Is Conditioning Necessary? Let's take it this way - your shampoo does for your scalp what your cleanser does for your face; while your conditioner is the moisturizer. Conditioner is important to keep your hair hydrated and soft. It prevents dry, dull hair that is prone to breakage. But, choosing the right conditioner for your hair type is evenly important. Your hair care products should suit your hair to strengthen it and improve its texture in the long run.

Is Over-Conditioning Your Hair Bad? When you condition your hair, a layer is formed along your hair shaft. This is what gives your hair its shine and makes it flexible and easy to brush through. However, over-conditioning your hair is as bad as not conditioning it at all. This build-up may reduce the efficacy of other products. It happens because this layer blocks other products like essential oils and serums from penetrating through your hair shaft.

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