We’ve all heard that we should deep condition our mane to fight frizz as well as to reverse dryness and damage. But, how exactly does one provide deep conditioning to the hair? What type of conditioner should you use? How long exactly should you keep it on? We give you a few do’s and don’ts that will answer all those questions you had about deep conditioning but didn’t know whom to ask.
When And How To Use Conditioner?
Trust us, it really does go a long way towards shiny, healthy hair, so it’s best to do it right!
1. Choose The Right One
How will your hair get deep conditioned without the right product? One tip is to look for a product with avocado oil, coconut or olive oil as these oils have amazing penetration powers to reach deep into your strands. Natural ingredients are important, and you should opt for products that are designed for your hair type – like for straight, frizzy, coloured or curly hair. Some of the best and most effective deep conditioners around are Neutrogena Triple Moisture Deep Recovery Hair Mask, Aussie Moist 3 Minute Miracle and L’Oreal Paris Advanced Haircare – Total Repair 5 Damage Erasing Balm. You can also make one at home with avocado, bananas, coconut milk, honey and mayonnaise blended together.
2. Don’t Overdo It
You may think you’re doing your hair good, but please do not leave your deep conditioner on for hours. The maximum length of time to leave it on for is 30 minutes. If you feel like it hasn’t made much of an impact in that much time, then you may want to switch it for another one. Over-conditioning your strands can actually make them fragile and weak, believe it or not.
3. Wash Your Hair First
Most of us have always assumed that we just need to wet our hair and then use deep conditioner but this is actually a big no-no. Your hair needs to be clean to be deep conditioned, so clean your hair with your regular shampoo first and then apply your deep conditioner. Make sure to rinse out your shampoo thoroughly, though.
4. How Often Do You Really Need To Deep Condition?
Yes, deep conditioning your mane regularly makes it healthier, stronger and more manageable while cutting down frizz, but how often you should do it really differs from person to person. For some, once every 2 weeks is fine while for others deep conditioning every three to four days is a must. The smartest thing to do is to start with deep conditioning once a week. If your hair still feels dry and prone to breakage then increase it to twice a week. If it starts to feel limp and weak then reduce it to once every two to three weeks. And if your strands feel fabulous and healthy then stick to once a week.
5. Concentrate On The Ends
If you are wondering how a conditioner is used, know that deep conditioner (just a dollop, not too much) is applied onto your palms and rub them together before running them through your strands. Concentrate on applying it from your mid-lengths to ends. Remember your ends are the oldest and driest part of your strands so they should have the maximum amount of product to help nourish them. If you have thick hair you should apply it in sections. Spread the remaining product onto your roots. You can also use a wide-tooth comb to help distribute the deep conditioner across your hair.
6. Allow It To Set In
You have to allow it to set in and work. It will take a few minutes to penetrate your strands well, so be patient. You can put on a shower cap if you want to help keep the conditioner in place. One beneficial thing to try is to wrap a warm towel around your head like a turban. The heat helps to activate the conditioner and helps it to penetrate each strand better. You can also aim a blow dryer on your shower cap to help your strands absorb it better.
7. Don’t Apply Conditioner To Sopping-Wet Hair
Never apply conditioner to the sopping wet hair. If you will apply the deep conditioner on too wet hair, the product will side off and will not penetrate or coat the fibres. Make sure to thoroughly wring out your hair before applying the conditioner. This way your hair will get proper conditioning and will set in the strands properly.
8. Rinse It Out Well
Rinse out the product with cool water, which will help seal your hair cuticles and make your strands shiny while trapping the moisture in. Then, gently towel dry your hair before letting it air dry. It’s normal for your hair to feel softer, glossier or even a little weighed down after a deep conditioning treatment. Wait a few days before your next shampoo.
Images: Shutterstock
MUST-READ: 8 Easy (And Pretty) Hairstyles That Look FAB On Unwashed Hair!
MUST-READ: Champi?! Yes, This Is How Oiling Your Hair Can Transform It!
MUST-READ: Herbal shampoos for dry hair in india
