Hair care routines vary from person to person, depending on hair type. Therefore, the suitable type of shampoo and conditioner also differs, as choosing an inappropriate product may not yield the desired results.
Whether your hair is dry, suffers from split ends, is oily, or curly, the suitable type of conditioner varies accordingly. So, how can you choose the best hair conditioner for you?
The Importance of Hair Conditioner
The conditioner moisturizes the hair, helps soften it, reduces frizz, and keeps it shiny. It is an essential step that is just as important as shampoo in any effective hair care routine. Generally, conditioner has three main uses:
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Replenish some of the moisture removed by shampooing.
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Moisturizing hair after chemical treatments, such as coloring or straightening.
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Helping hair recover from heat damage caused by hair dryers and curling irons.
Benefits of using hair conditioner include:
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Reducing Hair Breakage: Conditioner deeply hydrates the hair and helps it retain moisture, making it less tangled, stronger, and softer—ultimately preventing breakage.
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Improving Hair Appearance: Conditioners provide a variety of oils, vitamins, and extracts to nourish the hair. These ingredients encourage hydration and help prevent dryness and frizz.
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Easier Styling: Applying conditioner makes detangling much easier during combing. Once conditioned, hair feels smoother and more manageable.
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Protection: While shampoo cleanses the hair, conditioner protects it; its protective layer helps shield the hair from pollution and external damage.
Types of Hair Conditioners
Common types of hair conditioners include:
1. Rinse-Out Conditioner
This is the most common type that comes to mind. It is applied after shampooing and rinsed out after a minute or two.
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a rinse-out conditioner after every wash, ideally several times a week.
2. Leave-In Conditioner
Designed not to be rinsed out, this conditioner stays on your hair until the next wash. It is used to moisturize mild to moderately dry hair and repair damaged strands.
It is best used once a week, though more frequent use may be necessary for curly, very dry, or damaged hair.
3. Deep Conditioner
This is left on the hair for 30 minutes or more. It is heavier than the previous types and is specifically formulated to repair severely damaged hair and hydrate extremely dry hair. It is typically used once every month or two.
4. Cleansing Conditioner
A rinse-out type that cleanses and moisturizes simultaneously, eliminating the need for a separate shampoo.
It is usually lighter and won't weigh hair down, making it an excellent option for oily or fine hair.
How to Choose the Best Conditioner for Your Hair?
Choosing the right conditioner depends on your specific hair type. Here are some recommendations:
1. Conditioner for Weak and Brittle Hair
If your hair breaks frequently during combing or styling, look for a "strengthening" conditioner to fortify strands from the inside out.
These usually contain powerful ingredients like keratin and moisturizing agents like proteins and amino acids. Additional ingredients like green tea extract and antioxidants can also be beneficial.
2. Conditioner for Oily Hair
People with oily hair might avoid conditioner, but heavy oiliness is often a sign that the scalp is overproducing oil. A conditioner containing dimethicone, glycerin, and shea butter can moisturize without weighing it down.
Leave-in conditioners are a good choice as a small amount goes a long way. Look for labels like "volumizing," "lightweight," or "strengthening," and avoid products labeled "smoothing" or "for curly hair."
3. Conditioner for Dry and Damaged Hair
Dry hair indicates that the roots and scalp aren't producing enough natural oil. It is recommended to use conditioners containing Vitamin B5 for hydration and Ceramides to improve moisture retention.
4. Conditioner for Curly Hair
Curly hair requires deep hydration and smoothing because natural oils cannot easily travel down the coils to distribute moisture evenly. Oils like Argan or Coconut provide the necessary deep hydration.
Look for conditioners specifically labeled for curly hair and minimize the use of other products between washes.
How to Use Hair Conditioner Correctly?
To achieve the best results from your shampoo and conditioner routine, follow these simple steps:
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Rinse all shampoo out thoroughly.
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Use the amount of conditioner recommended on the product label.
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Don't apply conditioner on your scalp. Start applying the product from the shaft all the way down to the edges.
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Use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to distribute it along the length of the hair.
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Leave the conditioner on for 1–2 minutes.
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Rinse it out completely, ensuring no residue is left behind.
Note: Instructions may vary by product type; always follow the directions provided on the packaging.
Best Hair Conditioners from the Pharmacy
AlJawaher AlMotamayza Pharmacies offer a diverse range of conditioners tailored for every hair type:
1. Anivagene Nourishing Conditioner for Dry Hair (125ml)
Anivagene Nourishing Conditioner for dry hair strengthens and repairs weak/damaged hair while adding shine, volume, and heat protection.
2. Mielle Rosemary Mint Strengthening Conditioner (335ml)
Mielle Rosemary Mint Strengthening Conditioner gently cleanses and strengthens weak, brittle hair, restoring its natural health and shine. Suitable for all hair types.
3. Lee Stafford Keratin Protein Conditioner (250ml)
Lee Stafford Keratin Protein Conditioner is rich in keratin, collagen, and protein. It helps straighten, soften, and reduce frizz. Ideal for curly or protein-treated hair.
4. Ultra Doux Banana & Coconut Hair Food (350ml)
Ultra Doux Banana & Coconut Hair Food nourishes dry hair and makes it easy to style. Features a 98% natural origin, vegan formula.
5. Lee Stafford Argan Oil from Morocco Nourishing Conditioner (250ml)
Lee Stafford Argan Oil Conditioner from Morocco is perfect for dry and curly hair; it provides a silky texture and softens without weighing hair down.
6. Ultra Doux Daily Moisturizing Conditioner (360ml)
Ultra Doux Daily Moisturizing Conditioner is suitable for all hair types. Contains nourishing almond milk to soften hair and facilitate styling.
7. Dove Split End Conditioner (400ml)
Dove Split End Conditioner is a nourishing formula for damaged hair that restores vitality and repairs split ends.
8. Vatika Volume & Thickness Conditioner (200ml)
Vatika Volume & Thickness conditioner is infused with coconut, castor, and nourishing Vatika oils. Best for thin, weak hair to boost volume and vitality.
