Deep conditioning is an often neglected step in hair care routines. It involves applying a thick conditioner, specially formulated for this purpose, to the hair. Deep conditioning takes advantage of hydrating and restorative ingredients that work their magic in transforming your hair into subtly soft tresses. But for those with curly, coily, or wavy hair, it is essential to really give your curls the hydration they need. There are various types of conditioners on the market, and it can be confusing to know which one is right for your hair. The following guide will outline what a deep conditioner is, how often to use it, and the benefits it offers across all curl types and textures.
Table of Contents:
- What is Deep Conditioner?
- The Benefits of Using Deep Conditioner
- How to Use Deep Conditioner
- Are Deep Conditioners and Hair Masks the Same?
- How Often to Use Deep Conditioner
- Conclusion
What is Deep Conditioner?
A deep conditioner is an intensive hair treatment formulated to provide targeted benefits such as intense moisture, protein, or a combination of both. Unlike regular conditioner which is rinsed out after a few minutes, deep conditioners are designed to remain on the hair for a longer duration, typically 10-30 minutes. This extended time period allows the conditioning treatment to penetrate the hair shaft.
Deep conditioners are usually thicker in texture, giving that richer feel making them ideal for coating and saturating the hair. They can offer various benefits, some deliver strength and moisture and others are deeply nourishing for those dry and thirsty hair types. Regardless of your hair type or texture you will find a deep conditioning treatment to meet your needs.
The Benefits of Using Deep Conditioner
Curly hair tends to lack moisture compared to straight hair. This is because the structure of curls makes it harder for the hair’s natural oils to move down the hair shaft. This can lead to dry hair. Dry hair is far more prone to damage and this is why it’s so important to spend dedicated time moisturizing it. Without the correct nourishment it’s impossible to keep hair healthy looking and curls frizz free and defined. Hydrating the hair with a deep conditioner not only reduces breakage but it can add shine and vibrancy back to dull hair. When our hair is at its best it is also easier to manage! Whether you’re looking for detangled waves, bouncy curls or frizz free coils, a deep conditioner can revitalise your curls and confidence.
Deep conditioners include nourishing ingredients such as avocado oil, and aloe vera, which are friends for curly hair as well as Hyaluronic Acid known as a moisturizing miracle in the skincare world. These ingredients provide moisture, shine, and hydration which can help achieve so much more when left in the hair for longer. This is where deep conditioners differ from normal conditioners!
How to Use Deep Conditioner
Deep conditioning your hair isn’t necessary every wash day, once a week is generally the recommended guideline. While your overall wash routine doesn’t change dramatically when you include a deep conditioning treatment, you will need to allow extra time for the conditioner to penetrate more deeply than a regular conditioner. Let’s explore the steps of how to use a deep conditioner.
1. Shampoo Hair First
Start your wash day routine by shampooing your curls, this can be with a regular, or clarifying shampoo. Massage your scalp vigorously for a thorough cleanse and then rinse and repeat the process (shampoo twice). When rinsing, opt for warm water rather than extremely hot or cold for the best cleansing experience. Some wonder whether they need to apply a regular conditioner before deep conditioning. This step isn’t necessary as long as you choose the right deep conditioner to meet your hair’s needs.
2. Apply the Deep Conditioning Treatment Based on Your Hair Needs
Now you’re ready to apply your deep conditioner. For precise application section your hair into either two or four parts depending on your density. Start with a small dollop of conditioner, work it between your palms, and apply it to your mid-lengths and ends using the raking method to ensure even distribution. Avoid applying conditioner directly to your roots, during the detangling process, the conditioner will naturally move up the strands. Applying directly to the roots can leave them feeling weighed down.
Follow by detangling with a wide tooth comb, your fingers, or a detangling brush suitable for curly hair.
Overall, the amount of product needed depends on both length and density. Shorter hair typically requires less than longer hair, and high-density hair (meaning more strands) will generally need more product than low density (meaning fewer strands).
3. Leave Treatment On for the Instructed Length of Time
For a quick boost, we recommend leaving deep conditioner on the hair for 10-15 minutes. However, if you have the time, you should leave for 30 minutes for a deep moisturising hair treatment. The longer you leave this conditioner on your hair, the longer it has to penetrate the hair and take its full rejuvenating effects. If you don’t have the time to dedicate to hydration right now, try a leave-in conditioner in the meantime.
4. Rinse with Cool Water
When rinsing your deep conditioner, using lukewarm to cool water is recommended. Cooler temperatures help the cuticle lie flatter, which helps enhance shine, reduces frizz and helps your strands retain more effectively.
5. Style as Usual
Once your deep conditioner is fully rinsed from your hair, gently dry your curls or wrap your hair in a microfibre towel. Continue with your usual wash day routine by applying your leave-in conditioner, this adds slip for further detangling, helps lock in moisture, and prepares your hair for your preferred styler. Your chosen styler will help enhance definition and reduce frizz for lasting style.
Are Deep Conditioners and Hair Masks the Same?
This is a common question, and the short answer is no, they aren’t the same, although they are similar. The key difference is that deep conditioners primarily work on the outer layer of the hair, helping to improve softness, smoothness and overall manageability. Hair masks, on the other hand, focus on penetrating deeper into the hair shaft to repair, restore and nourish hair that is dry, damaged, or weakened.
How Often to Use Deep Conditioner
The general guideline for deep conditioning is once a week, particularly for curly hair because natural oils produced at the scalp struggle to travel down the strands due to the kinks. Therefore, deep conditioning weekly helps maintain healthy nourished curls. Those with straight healthy hair can often stretch deep conditioning to once a month.
Always choose a deep conditioner that is suitable for your hair type and meets your needs. If your hair is craving moisture, the Double Deep Cream Quencher provides rich hydration without weighing down your strands. If you're looking to maintain strength while still keeping your hair soft and moisturised, the Multi-tasking Conditioner offers the perfect balance of protein and moisture so no need to worry about protein overload.
Conclusion
Including a deep conditioner in your routine can make all the difference in the overall health look and feel of your hair. By now, you should now have a clear understanding of the benefits of deep conditioning, how to use it effectively, and how often to incorporate it into your routine. You're now fully equipped to give your hair exactly what it needs, whether that’s moisture, strength or balance of both.
So what next? Why not take the next step in your wash day journey by exploring our blog on how to choose the best leave in conditioner for your hair type.
