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How do I Choose the Best Moisturizing Conditioner?

B. Miller
B. Miller

To choose the best moisturizing conditioner, it is best to consider the type of hair you have, as well as if your hair is prone to becoming greasy or oily. Thick, rich conditioner, for an example, is a good choice for very dry, thick, or curly hair, whereas a lighter conditioner is a better choice for thin, very straight hair. In addition, consider whether you want moisturizing conditioner to be used every day, as a deep conditioning treatment once a week, or if you want leave-in conditioner that helps to style the hair.

There are many different types of moisturizing conditioner available, with various types of active ingredients. Moisturizing and humectant ingredients are the most important, as these are the ones that help add moisture, and repair damaged hair. Shea butter, coconut oil, panthenol, and glycerin are some of the most effective ingredients for moisturization, and some of the most common. Other ingredients added to moisturizing conditioner may include detangling ingredients, silicone to add shine, and fragrances.

A bottle of moisturizing conditioner.
A bottle of moisturizing conditioner.

If you prefer organic or all natural moisturizing conditioner, these are available as well. You may also ask your hair stylist for recommendations, or read reviews online from websites that sell beauty products. For people with fine hair, or hair lacking in volume, it may be a good idea to choose a weightless, volumizing conditioner; any conditioner will add moisture, but it is important not to add extra weight to the hair, which can make it appear flat and greasy.

On the other hand, people with long, thick hair, or curly wavy hair, often need a thicker and richer conditioner. It may not be necessary to purchase a volumizing conditioner in this case; instead, choose a conditioner designed to add a lot of extra moisture that will help to prevent frizz and dryness. Conditioner should be applied to the ends of hair every day, whether or not one shampoos the hair daily, in order to prevent damage and split ends.

Other types of moisturizing conditioner, such as leave-in conditioner and deep conditioning treatments, may be used for hair repair as well. Generally, these are only needed by people who have particularly dry or frizzy hair. Weekly deep conditioning treatments can be an excellent way to repair damaged hair, such as from coloring the hair or using heated styling tools. A daily leave-in conditioner can be a good way to style the hair while treating it at the same time.

Discussion Comments

stoneMason

I like moisturizing conditioner with oatmeal. Just like oatmeal skin moisturizer, this type of conditioner hydrates, soothes and nourishes scalp and hair.

I have a very dry scalp and dry hair.. My hair is brittle with lots of breakage and split ends. It feels coarse and looks dull. Since I started using oatmeal conditioner, there has been a huge improvement in the quality and appearance of my hair. I plan on continuing with this conditioner.

Also, I have started keeping the hair conditioner on my hair longer before rinsing. Before, I used to rinse almost immediately after applying the conditioner. Now I leave it in for about three minutes before rinsing it off.

donasmrs

@turquoise-- Have you looked at all natural conditioners? You can find them at health food stores, pharmacies and organic stores.

I use an all natural moisturizing conditioner with argan oil. It doesn't have any chemicals or unnecessary additives. Commercial shampoos and conditioner tend to have lots of chemicals to improve the texture, appearance and scent of shampoos. Natural conditioners can be less pleasing in this sense. For example, my natural conditioner is not thick and it smells a little plant-like. But if you want a natural, moisturizing conditioner then you have to make some adjustments.

turquoise

I heard that there is an ingredient in most hair conditioners called dimethicone that causes an unhealthy build-up over the long term. I have been looking for a moisturizing conditioner without this ingredient but I can't seem to find one.

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    • A bottle of moisturizing conditioner.
      By: Irina Brinza
      A bottle of moisturizing conditioner.