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 process. But when should this type of treatment be used? Find the answers in this article.
Library
All Topics
When to use a conditioner?
Summary
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 help 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, right 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 needs 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 thin 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 volumizing conditioner 2 to 3 times a week.
On thick hair
Thick hair requires deep hydration. It should be used with each shampooing, 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 hair knots. 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 on the hair fiber 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 beets 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 them similar to a hair mask such as keratin, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, aloe vera....
Sources
Draelos ZD. Essentials of Hair Care Often Neglected: 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).
Diagnostic
Understand your skin
and its complex needs.
