Hair conditioner: Benefits, How to use & Is conditioning necessary?
What is a conditioner? What does it do?
A hair conditioner is a hair care product that is used to improve the texture, appearance and manageability of hair. Its primary function is to minimize friction between hair strands, allowing for gentler brushing or combing of hair. Conditioner is frequently applied after shampooing. Conditioner makes hair softer and simpler to handle, while shampoo is intended to remove sweat, dead skin cells, and hair products. When you condition your hair, a layer forms throughout the length of your hair shaft, making it easier to manage and style. Your conditioner is what makes your hair shine after you have washed it. Conditioners contain fatty alcohols, humectants and oils that soften and condition hair. Some contain protein to help temporarily bind split ends, while others contain thickening chemicals to give hair a fuller appearance. It's crucial to choose the correct conditioner for your hair type. Different components have varying benefits and potential adverse effects.
How to apply hair conditioner
- Wash and shampoo your hair. Wash off all shampoo in your hair.
- Apply the suggested amount of conditioner as said in the bottle.
- Apply the conditioner to your hair's end evenly. Spread the conditioner in your strands down from your chin level. Conditioner should not be used on the scalp.
- Comb it through the ends of your hair using your fingers or a wide-toothed brush.
- Allow it to sit on your hair for a minute as directed on the label.
- Wash it off with normal or lukewarm water.
Types of conditioners
1) Rinse out conditioners
Rinse out conditioners are the most prominent type of conditioner that the majority of people use regularly. This type of conditioner is commonly used on wet hair, usually after shampooing. The product is applied for a few minutes before being completely washed off. They assist you in achieving hair that is easier to manage and seems softer and more glossy than it would otherwise. Rinse out conditioners also protect your hair's cuticles from heat damage.
2) Deep conditioners
Deep conditioners are hydrating conditioners that can be used to repair dry and damaged hair. When preparing these conditioners, essential oils, butters and other hydrating substances that help in repairing damaged hair and dry hair are likely options. Deep conditioners are often kept on for 30 minutes before being completely washed off, as likely a hair mask. They are designed to hydrate and restore damaged hair. These aren't the finest options for people with regular or oily hair. They can add moisture content to your hair and add weight to your hair.
3) Leave-in conditioners
Leave-in conditioners, as the name indicates, are designed to be not washed off. Leave-in conditioners are light and leave your hair with a protective coating. They are applied to your hair after shampooing and assist to keep it silky. They also make it easier to style your hair because they untangle it quickly. These conditioners hydrate your hair while also protecting it from external damage factors.
How to use leave-in conditioner:
- Towel dry your hair gently after washing it with shampoo to remove excess water.
- Follow the directions on the bottle to apply the leave-in conditioner.
- Use your fingers or a wide-toothed comb to gently comb your hair. Do not apply it to your scalp.
- Allow your hair to air and style it as normal.
- It is also good to use before going to bed.
4) Hair masks
Hair masks can condition your damaged and dry hair. They are used to hydrate and nourish your hair. It nourishes the hair cuticles by penetrating through them and infusing them with protein and moisturizing elements. Different masks can be applied according to your hair type. Apply a hair mask to your hair twice a week and leave it on for 15-20 minutes before washing it off. These masks hydrate and repair your hair, making it stronger and more voluminous over time.
Is conditioning necessary?
Conditioning your hair is a necessary part of hair washing. Shampoo eliminates sebum, the natural conditioner produced by your scalp. The majority of shampoos contain chemicals that are harsh on hair follicles. It's critical to use conditioner to maintain your hair nourished and silky. It protects hair from becoming dry, lifeless and brittle. Choosing the proper conditioner for your hair type, on the other hand, is also crucial. Your hair care products should be tailored to your hair type to strengthen and improve the texture of your hair over time. The average pH of your hair is mildly acidic. The pH of your conditioner should be between 4.5 and 7. This will ensure that it does not cause any long term harm.
How to choose the right conditioner for you
- Always remember to consider your hair type and styling techniques before selecting a conditioner. Different components will be required to treat hair of various textures. Additionally, if you blow-dry your hair every day or color it frequently, it will require additional moisture.
- Your hair will have more stress and strain if it has been bleached or dyed. Look for shampoo and conditioners that are specifically designed for color-treated hair.
- Dryness and frizz are common problems with curly hair. If you have curly hair, you may need to be more careful about evenly applying conditioner all over your hair. After applying the conditioner, comb your hair with your fingers or a wide-toothed comb.