How Often Should You Really Use Hair Conditioner?

Best conditioners for your hair type

By Diana Nguyen Sep 02, 2015 12:38 AMTags
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Many experts will advise you against washing your hair every day—at the risk of drying out the scalp and, as a result, overproducing oil (hello, greasy strands!). But does the same ring true for conditioning?

Skimp on the hair moisturizing step, and you may be looking at dry, brittle strands. In fact, most clients who walk through celeb hairstylist Marc Mena's salon are not using nearly as much as they should.

"People are scared to use conditioner because they think it will weigh their hair down and make it oily," he said. "When in fact, the right conditioner will add shine, luster, movement and maintain a healthy mane. When you don't use conditioner, the hair often becomes dehydrated and looks lackluster and coarse."

So how often should we be conditioning? It depends on the hair, but a general rule of thumb is to condition after you shampoo.

"As long as you are using the right conditioner for your hair and applying it correctly (run a small amount from length to ends then comb through for even distribution) then the benefits of using it will be positive," the hair pro added.

For thin hair: Opt for a volumizing product, like Drybar Texas Tea Volumizing Conditioner, which will help build body while keeping strands smooth. For a more matte texture that's effortlessly buoyant, try a more lightweight iteration, like Bumble and bumble Surf Crème Rinse Conditioner. If you're really scared of limp locks, apply conditioner from mid-length down to the hair ends to avoid bogged-down roots. 

For thick hair: You may have healthy hair but chances are you use a lot of product to tame those tresses—in which case you should try a clarifying shampoo (which is also a good option for those looking to brighten up dull, blond hair) to help remove product excess, follow it up with a conditioner and let it sit for a few minutes before washing it out.

For damaged hair: It's all about hydration here. Opt for conditioners with natural oils or organic butters, like shea or olive, which moisturize dry strands while repairing hair. Acure Triple Moisture Repairing Conditioner, which includes Argan stem cells and sea buckthorn oil, is a replenishing option whether you have straight or curly hair.