Welcome to the world of hair care, where every product plays its unique role in helping you achieve your dream hair. Today, we’re focusing on an essential product that’s often underestimated: conditioner. From its basic functions to expert advice and top tips from our founder and award-winning hairstylist Andy Uffels, this blog covers everything you need to know about conditioners.
What is a conditioner?
In essence, a conditioner is a hair care product that is used after shampooing to nourish, hydrate and soften the hair. It helps detangle and makes combing easier by smoothing the cuticle of the hair.
What is the main difference between shampoo and conditioner?
This is probably stating the obvious, but just to be sure…the biggest difference is their function; shampoo is designed to remove dirt and excess oil, while conditioner is meant to hydrate, nourish, soften, smooth, and protect your hair. Shampoo opens the hair cuticle to cleanse, while conditioner smooths the cuticle for a soft finish.
How does a conditioner work and what does it do for your hair?
Conditioners contain ingredients such as good water-soluble silicones, oils, and humectants that form a thin 'film' over the hair. This film helps to retain moisture, smooths the hair, and reduces static electricity, making your hair soft and easy to comb and style. In addition, it has the function of providing protection against external damage such as pollution and heat.
Why would you use a conditioner first and then a shampoo?
This method, known as "conditioner-first washing," can help remove excess oil from the roots while leaving the lengths and ends moisturized. It's especially beneficial for those with fine hair that's easily weighed down by conditioners.
What is a good conditioner?
A good conditioner is one that suits your hair type and needs. For dry hair, look for intensely hydrating formulas, while fine hair benefits from lightweight, volumizing conditioners.
What does a specific curl conditioner do?
Specifically designed for curly hair, a curl conditioner works more intensively to provide hydration to the unique texture of curls. It also helps define curls, fights frizz and provides the necessary nourishment to keep curly hair healthy and bouncy.
What happens if you don't use conditioner?
Without conditioner, your hair can become dry, brittle, and difficult to manage. It lacks the nourishment and protection it needs to stay healthy, which can lead to split ends and breakage. Many people skip using conditioner, sometimes against their better judgment. The effect of conditioner cannot be underestimated. It gives you more protection, more shine, and better manageability in the long run.
How often should you use conditioner?
The frequency of conditioner use depends on your hair type and condition. In general, it is recommended to use it every time you wash your hair , but people with very fine or oily hair may choose to use it less often.
What does Heleen Kibbelaar say about a conditioner?
Heleen Kibbelaar, a well-known and highly regarded cosmetic scientist in the world of hair care and advisor to The Insiders, emphasizes the importance of choosing the right conditioner for your hair type. "A good conditioner can make the difference between dull and shiny hair," she says (quote), and encourages people to look for products that are specifically tailored to their hair needs. So, check the description on the packaging to see if the conditioner suits your hair needs before you buy it.
5 Top Tips from Andy Uffels
Andy Uffels, our founder and renowned hairstylist with a wealth of experience, shares his top five tips for getting the most out of your conditioner:
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Choose the right formula: Like Heleen Kibbelaar, Andy advises the importance of choosing the right conditioner for your hair type. "For curly hair, look for products that are rich in hydrating ingredients. Fine hair? Go for lightweight formulas that don't weigh you down. If the base is right (choose the right product), the results will follow naturally"
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Let it work: "To get the full benefits of your conditioner, leave it on for at least one to three minutes after thoroughly removing all shampoo residue. This gives the active ingredients time to penetrate deep into the hair shaft."
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Focus on the ends: Andy stresses the importance of applying conditioner to the mid-lengths and ends of your hair, especially if you have finer hair. "These parts of your hair are older and more damaged than the roots and need extra nourishment and hydration. But for normal to thicker hair, I recommend you apply conditioner all over your hair from root to tip."
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Make a DIY hair mask: “Mix your conditioner with natural oils like coconut or argan oil for an intensely nourishing hair mask. Try our Go with the Glow Oil , it’s perfect for this! Leave the mixture on under a shower cap for an hour or, for a deep treatment, overnight. This will help to deeply nourish and repair dry, damaged hair.”
- Detangle hair without rinsing: “For extremely dry or curly hair, a little conditioner diluted with water in a spray bottle can act as a leave-in conditioner or detangling spray. This helps control frizz and makes hair easier to manage throughout the day.”
Conclusion
Conditioner is an essential part of an effective hair care routine. Not only does it provide your hair with the moisture and nourishment it needs, it also helps improve its overall texture, reduce frizz, and protect against daily damage. By choosing the right conditioner for your hair type and following expert tips, you can enjoy healthier, shinier, and easier-to-style hair.
Skipping conditioner can lead to a host of hair problems, including dryness, breakage, split ends, and lack of shine. Whether you opt for the traditional post-shampoo application or try the “conditioner-first” method, regularly using a conditioner that’s tailored to your specific needs is essential.
Remember that the frequency of use and method of application should be adjusted to your individual hair type and condition. With the right care and attention, conditioner can make a fundamental difference in the health and appearance of your hair.
So, take the time to pamper your hair with the right conditioner , and see how you can transform your hair into the hair of your dreams. With this knowledge and expert tips in hand, a great hair day is within reach every day.
