15 BEST DEEP CONDITIONERS FOR CURLY HAIR, ACCORDING TO HAIRSTYLISTS AND EDITORS

Want to give your curly hair some extra TLC?  Deep conditioners are a curly girl’s best friend, adding moisture, definition, and shine to your locks. But with so many products on the market, it can be tough to choose which one is right for you. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of the 15 best deep conditioners for curly hair, according to hairstylists and editors. Whether you have fine, thick, or color-treated hair, there’s a deep conditioner on this list that will help you achieve your best curls yet! 

OUR TOP PICKS 

SPOILEDCHILD M26 DAMAGE REVERSER

SpoiledChild M26 Damage Reverser is a hair mask designed to repair and revitalize damaged hair in just 10 minutes. It targets breakage, restores strength, and aims to fortify hair to prevent future damage. The key ingredients are Argan oil and Keratin, both known for their hair repair properties. This product is ideal for those with dry, dull, or frizzy hair caused by heat styling, chemical treatments, or coloring. Users report that the mask leaves hair shinier, softer, and more manageable.

BREAD BEAUTY HAIR-MASK DEEP CONDITIONER

Bread Beauty’s Hair-Mask Deep Conditioner is a popular choice for its ability to both strengthen and soften hair. It contains unique ingredients like Australian Kakadu Plum Seed Oil, which is lightweight and effective at keeping hair moisturized and supple. Customers love that this mask hydrates and detangles hair, leaving it feeling soft, luxurious, and quenched.  This deep conditioner comes in two sizes, a 3.3 oz and a 12 oz dispenser, to fit your hair care needs.

SHEA MOISTURE INTENSIVE HYDRATION HAIR MASK

SheaMoisture’s Intensive Hydration Hair Mask, also known as the Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Intensive Hydration Masque, is a deep conditioning treatment designed specifically for dry, damaged hair, particularly curly hair. It promises to intensely hydrate and nourish hair with a blend of key ingredients. Certified organic Shea Butter, Manuka Honey, and Mafura and Baobab Oils work together to restore and lock in moisture. This rich formula also contains African Rock Fig, an antioxidant that helps strengthen hair follicles and promote frizz-free hair. Overall, the SheaMoisture Intensive Hydration Hair Mask aims to revitalize dry, damaged hair, leaving it smoother, stronger, and healthier.

MIZANI 25 MIRACLE MILK LEAVE-IN CONDITIONER

Mizani’s leave-in conditioner is a versatile hair product praised by hairstylist Ryan Babbitt for its multiple benefits. This sulfate-free formula is rich and nourishing, yet lightweight, making it ideal for various hair types.  Babbitt uses it for shine enhancement, detangling, as a cutting lotion during trims, and even as a daily leave-in conditioner for curly hair. It also boasts a “fresh and honest” scent, although some might find it strong.

BRIOGEO DON’T DESPAIR, REPAIR! DEEP CONDITIONING MASK

Briogeo’s Don’t Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Mask is a hair treatment designed to restore and revitalize dry, damaged, or chemically treated hair.  This intensive weekly treatment uses natural ingredients to deliver essential hydration and enhance hair’s resilience to protect against future damage.

The mask is formulated with Briogeo’s NOVA Complex, a blend of transformative nutrients including B-vitamins, rosehip oil, argan oil, algae extract, and biotin. These ingredients work together to replenish damaged hair, leaving it shiny, healthy-looking, and manageable. Briogeo’s Don’t Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Mask is free of sulfates, silicones, phthalates, parabens, DEA, and artificial dyes, making it a good choice for those with sensitive scalps or color-treated hair. 

COLOR WOW MONEY MASK DEEP HYDRATING & STRENGTHENING HAIR TREATMENT

Designed by celebrity stylist Chris Appleton, COLOR WOW’s Money Mask Deep Hydrating & Strengthening Hair Treatment is a luxurious hair mask aimed at achieving salon-quality shine and health at home.  This weightless formula penetrates deep into the hair to deliver a powerful dose of moisture and fortify strands with marine-derived ingredients.  Key components include Blue Sea Kale, which strengthens hair, and a Mediterranean Sea Kelp and Algae Blend that provides deep hydration.  Suitable for all hair types, the Money Mask is touted for leaving hair glossy, supple, and manageable with continued use. You can use it weekly or as often as every three shampoos for an extra boost of hydration and heat protection.

DAVINES LOVE CURL CURLY HAIR MASK

Davines Love Curl Hair Mask is a deep conditioning treatment designed specifically for wavy or curly hair. It promises to tame and nourish even thick, unruly strands. This mask focuses on improving manageability and curl definition. The formula contains ingredients like Noto almond, rich in proteins and vitamins, to boost elasticity and volume in your curls.  It also contains panthenol for added shine and vitamin E to combat frizz.  The Davines Love Curl Hair Mask is described as having a pleasant citrus scent and is designed to leave your curls soft, bouncy, and easier to manage.

DESIGN ESSENTIALS ALMOND & AVOCADO WASH DAY DEEP MOISTURE MASQUE

Designed specifically for dry hair, Design Essentials’ Almond & Avocado Wash Day Deep Moisture Masque is a concentrated treatment that promises intense hydration. This rich mask is formulated with the nourishing properties of Almond and Avocado oils, aiming to strengthen hair while locking in moisture. It goes beyond just hydration though, targeting  increased elasticity and shine for your hair.  This paraben, phthalate, silicone and gluten free formula is also said to improve detangling and manageability, making wash day a breeze.

BUMBLE AND BUMBLE THICKENING PLUMPING MASK

Bumble and Bumble Thickening Plumping Mask is a lightweight hair mask designed to add volume and body to fine or thin hair.  This product is formulated with their Strand-Plumping Technology, which is designed to plump up each hair strand from root to tip for a thicker overall look.  It also contains Hydrolyzed Rice Protein, which adds volume and bounce, and Kukui Seed Oil and Coconut Oil to condition and smooth hair.

Bumble and Bumble Thickening Plumping Mask is free of parabens, formaldehydes, phthalates, and mineral oil, and is also cruelty-free.  It is ideal for those with fine to medium hair who are looking for a lightweight hair mask that will add volume and hydration without weighing hair down.

L’ANZA TRAUMA TREATMENT

L’Anza Healing ColorCare Trauma Treatment is a hair product designed to repair and revitalize color-treated hair that has been damaged by chemical processing, heat styling, or environmental factors.  This restorative conditioner contains a blend of amino acids and ceramides to strengthen hair and improve color longevity. It  also offers triple UV and heat protection to help prevent future damage. Users report that L’Anza Trauma Treatment leaves hair feeling shinier, softer, and more manageable.  This product is available in two sizes, a 5.1 fl oz bottle and a 1 liter container.

ADWOA BEAUTY BAOMINT DEEP CONDITIONING TREATMENT

Adwoa Beauty’s Baomint Deep Conditioning Treatment is designed to detangle and invigorate your scalp with a cool and refreshing experience.  This treatment, particularly suited for kinky, coily and curly hair,  focuses on deep moisture to support length retention and healthy hair growth.  The key ingredients are Baobab Oil, known for its moisturizing properties, and a blend of Mint Oils for their scalp-stimulating and possibly hair growth supporting effects.  This product is advertised to be particularly effective for medium to thick hair.  Users can expect softer, more manageable curls with continued use.

LIVING PROOF NO FRIZZ INTENSE MOISTURE HAIR MASK

Living Proof’s No Frizz Intense Moisture Hair Mask is designed to combat frizz and bring intense moisture to coarse, thick hair. It promises to  deliver smooth, manageable hair without any greasy weighdown often associated with heavy conditioners. This silicone-free formula utilizes a unique technology to target frizz while still providing deep hydration. Shea butter is included in the ingredient list to further nourish hair and potentially extend the time between washes.  Living Proof’s No Frizz Intense Moisture Hair Mask is ideal for those struggling with frizzy, thick hair who are looking for a lightweight mask that delivers both moisture and frizz control.

SHU UEMURA ULTIMATE RESET HAIR MASK FOR VERY DAMAGED HAIR

Designed for very damaged hair, Shu Uemura’s Ultimate Reset Hair Mask is an intensive repair treatment that specifically targets hair weakened by chemical processes like bleaching, coloring, and frequent heat styling.  This rich mask is formulated with Japanese-sourced rice extract, which is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These ingredients work together to nourish hair from within, fortifying hair fibers and repairing damage. The result? Hair that is stronger, less prone to breakage, and visibly smoother and shinier.  This mask is suitable for all hair types, though those with very damaged hair will benefit most.

ORIBE MOISTURE & CONTROL DEEP TREATMENT HAIR MASK

Oribe’s Moisture & Control Deep Treatment Hair Mask is a luxurious hair mask designed to deliver intense hydration and manageability to all hair types, particularly curly hair.  This silicone-free formula features coconut and almond oils to quench dry strands, prevent breakage, and repair damage. It also works to seal the hair cuticle, further promoting moisture retention and adding shine.  Users can expect smoother, softer, and more manageable hair with continued use.

VIRTUE FLOURISH THICKENING & HYDRATING MASK FOR THINNING HAIR

Virtue Flourish Thickening & Hydrating Mask for Thinning Hair is a targeted treatment designed to address concerns of thinning hair. This whipped, creamy yet weightless mask promises multiple benefits. It aims to strengthen hair strands and support healthy hair growth, all while delivering intense hydration. This two-pronged approach can leave hair feeling stronger, shinier, and silkier, with the potential to help prevent breakage often associated with thinning hair. The key to Flourish Mask lies in its use of Alpha Keratin 60ku CLINICAL, a patented protein that Virtue Labs claims is clinically proven to be effective. This protein is said to thicken, strengthen, and repair hair while also balancing the scalp to create an optimal environment for growth.

WHAT IS DEEP CONDITIONING + WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?

According to Larry Sims, a hairstylist and co-founder of Flawless by Gabrielle Union, deep conditioning is like giving your hair a super boost of care. It’s especially important for people with curly hair because it helps keep their curls healthy and strong, even if they use heat or chemicals on their hair.

When you’re picking a deep conditioner for curly hair, look for ones with ingredients like argan oil, coconut oil, and shea butter. Avoid ones with alcohol or sulfates because they can dry out your hair.

Using a deep conditioner is easy. After you shampoo your hair, put the deep conditioner on your damp hair, making sure every strand is covered. You can use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to help spread it evenly.

You can leave the deep conditioner on for 5 to 10 minutes for a quick treatment, or you can cover your hair with a shower cap and sit under a hooded dryer for a more intense treatment. Then rinse it out with cool water before styling your hair as usual.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A DEEP CONDITIONER

When choosing a deep conditioner, there are a few key factors to consider to target your specific hair needs:

Hair type and condition: Are your curls in need of definition or moisture? Is your hair fine and limp or thick and coarse? Dry, damaged hair will benefit from intense moisture, while fine hair might need a lightweight formula to avoid weighing it down.

Ingredients: Look for ingredients that address your concerns. For moisture, seek out emollients like butters and oils, and humectants like glycerin and aloe vera. Protein is great for strengthening damaged hair, but too much can be drying.

Desired benefits: Do you want frizz control, manageability, or heat protectant qualities? Some deep conditioners offer multiple benefits, while others specialize in a particular area.

Here’s a quick breakdown of some common deep conditioner benefits and their corresponding ingredients:

  • Moisture: shea butter, coconut oil, jojoba oil, glycerin, aloe vera
  • Strength: keratin, hydrolyzed proteins, amino acids
  • Shine: silicones (optional), fatty alcohols
  • Frizz control: shea butter, coconut oil, Abyssinian oil

Keep in mind that some deep conditioners are designed for specific hair types, such as curly hair or color-treated hair.  Reading the label and understanding your hair’s needs will help you pick the best deep conditioner for you.

CONCLUSION

Whether you have wavy, curly, or coily locks, finding the right deep conditioner can transform your hair care routine. By considering your curl type, hair condition, and desired results, you can choose a product that provides the moisture, strength, and control your curls need. With so many great deep conditioners on the market and the right combination of products like hair masks for curly hair or a scalp massager, we believe you will have beautiful, healthy hair from deep within. Happy conditioning!

HOW TO SHRINK PORES, ACCORDING TO DERMATOLOGIST

Are the tiny imperfections on your nose and cheeks lingering like unwelcome guests? If you find yourself grappling with this common issue, know that you’re not alone. Large pores can be a persistent skin concern, but there’s no need to resign yourself to continually editing your selfies. It’s time to focus on how to minimize pores. Leading dermatologists possess the expertise to unlock the secrets of reducing these bothersome pores, promoting skin that is not just smoother but also clearer. In this article, we’ve gathered and shared their invaluable insights. Make sure not to overlook these tips for achieving a healthier complexion.

WHAT ARE CLOGGED PORES?

Before exploring proven methods from experts, it’s essential to grasp why pores may appear enlarged. The explanation is simple: they get clogged. Every day, our skin contends with a barrage of irritants like dirt, oil, dead skin cells, and smog. According to The Mayo Clinic, open and clogged pores are recognized as blackheads, while closed and clogged pores are known as whiteheads. The former is a prevalent factor that contributes to the existence of large, dark pores on the face. Now, let’s delve into how to make pores smaller with expert-backed strategies.

WHY DO YOUR PORES LOOK SO BIG?

Your pore size is mostly determined by genetics. Pores are tiny openings that let sweat and oil exit from glands onto your skin’s surface. If your parents have large pores, chances are, you will too.

However, there are other factors that can make pores appear bigger, as explained by Dr. Jane Wu dermatologist, MD.

Oil Production: Pores are more noticeable in the center of your face because that’s where more oil-releasing sebaceous glands are located.

Sex: People assigned male at birth (AMAB) usually have more sebaceous glands and oilier skin, leading to more visible pores.

Aging: Collagen and elastin are proteins that support pores structurally. As you age, you lose collagen and elastin, causing your pores to widen.

Sun Damage: Too much sun exposure breaks down collagen and elastin in your skin, reducing firmness and allowing pores to grow larger.

Hormonal Changes: Pores become more visible during puberty when hormonal shifts increase oil production. Those assigned female at birth (AFAB) may notice changes in pore size during their menstrual cycle, a time when acne breakouts are common.

HOW TO REDUCE SHRINK PORES

While achieving permanent shrinkage of your pores isn’t possible due to genetic factors, you can diminish their visibility by adopting effective practices on how to get rid of clogged pores. Maintaining cleanliness, preventing the accumulation of oil and debris, and boosting your skin’s collagen and elastin are key strategies. These not only reduce the appearance of pores but also serve as preventive measures against further enlargement.

In your quest for flawless skin, avoid excessive squeezing or the use of extractor tools to unclog pores. According to Dr. Wu, such practices can result in scarring and skin damage. Instead, choose products that gently clear out pores without causing additional trauma to the skin.

SKIN CARE CYCLE

Making sure to take good care of your skin every day is super important for dealing with pore size concerns. One important thing you can do is to regularly clean your face. This is a big help in making your pores look smaller.

Cleaning your face gets rid of extra oil, dirt, and stuff on your skin that can make your pores look bigger. It’s really important to pick a face wash that works well with your specific skin type for the best results. Using a gentle face wash is extra important because harsh ones can make your skin irritated and might make things worse. When you use the right face wash, you’re not only keeping your skin clean but also taking a big step in making your pores less noticeable and keeping your skin healthy.

EXFOLIATE

Exfoliation is an important additional step in your skin care routine. This process involves using products that contain specific ingredients such as salicylic acid or glycolic acid. These ingredients work to gently remove dead skin cells, preventing them from accumulating in your pores.

When you exfoliate, you’re essentially helping your skin shed old, dull cells, revealing younger-looking skin underneath so it’s easier to apply makeup products. This not only results in a smoother texture but also contributes to minimizing the appearance of pores. By preventing the buildup of dead skin cells in your pores, exfoliation plays an important role in keeping your skin looking fresh and vibrant. However, remember that it’s important not to overdo it with exfoliation – moderation is key to avoiding irritation and maintaining balance for healthy skin.

COMBINATION WITH OTHER PRODUCTS

In the pursuit of minimizing pores, combining specific products can enhance the effectiveness of your skincare routine. A comprehensive approach often involves incorporating a variety of products that target different aspects of skin health. For instance, using a gentle cleanser to keep the skin free from excess oil and debris, coupled with an exfoliating product containing ingredients like salicylic acid or glycolic acid to remove dead skin cells, forms a strong foundation. To address the structural aspect and promote skin firmness, consider combining these steps with products containing retinoids, known for stimulating collagen synthesis. 

USE SUNSCREEN

Apart from your regular skincare routine, safeguarding your skin from the sun is crucial for maintaining its health and preventing potential issues with pore size. The sun emits harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays that can have adverse effects on your skin. These rays can break down essential proteins like collagen and elastin, which play a crucial role in supporting skin structure. As a result, the skin may lose its firmness, and pores might appear larger.

To counteract the damaging effects of UV rays, it’s imperative to incorporate sun protection into your daily routine. Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30. This ensures that your skin is shielded from both UVA and UVB rays. Applying sunscreen daily helps create a protective barrier, minimizing the risk of collagen and elastin breakdown caused by sun exposure. By making sun protection a consistent part of your skincare regimen, you not only contribute to the prevention of pore enlargement but also promote overall skin health and resilience.

AVOID OIL-BASED CREAMS

Applying thick oils or oil-based creams, including natural oils like coconut and olive, might seem like a remedy for dry skin, but it can lead to clogged pores. Even if you have dry skin, these heavy oils can combine with your dead skin cells, creating a mixture that congests your pores. This, in turn, can contribute to issues such as acne and blackheads.

To prevent these potential skin problems, it’s advisable to opt for water-based products instead. Water-based moisturizers and creams are lighter in texture, providing hydration without the heavy, pore-clogging effect of certain oils. They help maintain your skin’s natural balance, preventing excess oil and dead skin cells from accumulating and causing pore blockages. Making a switch to water-based products can be especially beneficial for individuals with dry skin, offering a more suitable and effective solution for hydration without compromising on pore health.

AVOID SHIMMERY MAKEUP

When you want to treat and minimize the appearance of large pores, you should stay away from glitter makeup products. Honestly, these products are very suitable for important occasions such as makeup for the bride on her wedding day or formal parties. However, glitter or sparkles in makeup can accentuate the skin’s texture, drawing attention to pores and making them appear larger. Instead, choose matte or satin finishes in your makeup choices. These formulas give the skin a smoother appearance, help conceal visible pores, and create a more even skin tone. Choosing makeup products with a matte finish and pairing with a pore-friendly primer can be a simple yet effective step in your beauty routine to achieve smaller pores.

DO A CHEMICAL PEEL

Using a chemical peel can help make big pores look smaller. These peels can be done at home or by a skincare expert, and they often have acids like AHA or BHA. These acids are important because they remove the top layer of dead skin cells, making your skin smoother and clearing out your pores.

Some common acids in these peels are glycolic acid (which is a type of AHA) and salicylic acid (a kind of BHA). These acids are really good at dealing with concerns about big pores. The process of using these peels gets rid of extra stuff like oil and debris, making your pores seem smaller. It’s important to follow the instructions on how to use them, and talking to a skin expert can help you figure out the best way to use chemical peels in your skincare routine to get the best results for smaller-looking pores.

TRY MICRONEEDLING

Consider microneedling as a potential treatment to address and reduce the appearance of enlarged pores. Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure that involves the use of a device with tiny needles that create micro-injuries on the skin’s surface. This process stimulates the natural healing response of the skin, encouraging the production of collagen and elastin. As a result, the skin becomes firmer, more resilient, and the pores can appear smaller.

Microneedling is known for its ability to enhance overall skin texture and quality. The procedure is typically performed by a trained skincare professional, ensuring precision and safety. While individual experiences may vary, microneedling can be a valuable option for those seeking to address pore size concerns and improve the overall health and appearance of their skin. It’s advisable to consult with a dermatologist or skincare expert to determine if microneedling is suitable for your specific skin needs and goals.

TRY LASERS 

Laser therapy is a non-invasive procedure that uses focused light energy to target specific skin concerns. In the context of pore size, certain laser treatments can stimulate collagen production and improve skin elasticity, leading to a reduction in pore size.

Lasers work by delivering precise energy to the skin, promoting cellular regeneration and enhancing overall skin texture. The procedure is typically performed by a qualified dermatologist or skin care professional to ensure safety and effectiveness. While individual responses to laser treatments may vary, many individuals experience positive changes in skin tone, firmness, and a decrease in the visibility of pores.

Before opting for laser treatments, it’s crucial to consult with a dermatologist to determine the most suitable laser therapy for your specific skin type and concerns. They can provide personalized insights into the potential benefits and risks associated with laser treatments, helping you make an informed decision based on your skincare goals.

FAQ

1. Can ice shrink pores?

Ice has been found to minimize the appearance of pores and wrinkles, creating a lighter, brighter.

2. Does hot water open pores?

No. Contrary to a common belief, pores don’t open or close. But using warm water in your skincare routine can still be helpful.

3. How long does it take pores to shrink?

Typically, it takes 15 to 20 days for very small pores to naturally shrink, but proper treatment can expedite the process.

4. Does vitamin C reduce pores?

Yes. Vitamin C serum is renowned for its ability to minimize the appearance of pores, thanks to its high Vitamin C content and potent antioxidant properties.

5. Does zinc reduce pore size?

Not necessarily. While zinc doesn’t directly reduce pore size, it plays a role in regulating oil production and can contribute to overall skin health.

CONCLUSION

When it comes to taking care of your skin, dermatologists are like helpful guides. They give advice on what to do, suggest trying different things, and offer new treatments. By listening to their tips, following a good routine, and trying out new ideas, you can make your skin smoother and clearer. The advice from dermatologists acts like a guiding light, giving you the power to make smart choices and leading you to a glowing, healthy skin.