leave in conditioner liquid

What Does Conditioner Do? Expert explains

If you have ever picked up a bottle of shampoo, you would notice the label suggests using a conditioner as well. Most people use conditioner without knowing what it actually does or how it works. 

So, what does conditioner do for your hair, and why is it an essential part of your daily routine? This comprehensive guide will unravel the mysteries of conditioner, delving into its functions, ingredients, and the transformative effects it can have on your hair. Join us on this journey to uncover the secrets of this transformative hair care product and how it can elevate your hair game to new heights.

What is conditioner?

Hair conditioner is a hair care cosmetic product used to improve the feel, texture, appearance and manageability of hair. It typically comes in a creamy or liquid form and contains a combination of ingredients, including moisturizers, oils, proteins, and vitamins. Its main purpose is to reduce friction between strands of hair to allow smoother brushing or combing, which might otherwise cause damage to the scalp.

Conditioner is usually used after the hair has been washed with shampoo. It is applied and worked into the hair and may either be rinsed out a short time later or left in.

What Does Conditioner Do? 

It moisturizes and hydrates the hair, combating dryness and leaving it softer and more flexible. By smoothing the hair’s cuticle, it reduces tangles and makes detangling easier, reducing the risk of hair breakage. 

“Conditioner helps to smooth the cuticles of your hair, which makes it look and feel softer and more manageable.” – According to Dr. Doris Day, board-certified dermatologist and author of “The Beauty Bible”. Actually, conditioner also enhances manageability, making hair easier to style while shielding it from environmental stressors like UV rays and heat styling. It can strengthen the hair shaft, add shine, reduce frizz, and even help balance the hair’s pH levels, contributing to overall hair health and appearance. Whether for daily use or occasional deep conditioning, conditioner plays a pivotal role in maintaining healthy, vibrant, and manageable hair.

How to Use Conditioner properly

To get the most out of your conditioner, you need to know how to use it properly. Here are some tips:

  • Choose the Right Conditioner: There are different types of conditioners, such as moisturizing, volumizing, and color-safe. Choose one that suits your hair type and needs.
  • Apply to Wet Hair: Use conditioner after shampooing your hair while it’s still wet. Squeeze out excess water before applying.
  • Focus on Ends: Apply conditioner mainly to the ends of your hair, which are more prone to damage and dryness.
  • Leave it On: Let the conditioner sit on your hair for at least two minutes before rinsing it off with warm water.
  • Rinse Thoroughly: Make sure to rinse off all the conditioner from your hair to avoid buildup.

The general rule of thumb is to leave conditioner in your hair for 1-3 minutes. This is enough time for the conditioner to penetrate the hair shaft and work its magic. However, if you have very dry or damaged hair, you may want to leave the conditioner in for longer, up to 5 minutes.

How to choose conditioner for different hair types

Dry Hair

Conditioners for dry hair should be luxuriously moisturizing, enriched with ingredients such as shea butter, coconut oil, or argan oil. These deeply hydrating components work in harmony to quench thirsty strands, leaving your hair irresistibly soft and incredibly manageable.

Oily Hair

For those with oily hair, opt for lightweight, non-greasy conditioners infused with ingredients like tea tree oil or witch hazel. These elements excel at banishing excess oil without the burden of heaviness, ensuring a fresh and weightless feel.

Fine Hair

 Fine hair benefits from conditioners that are both feather-light and volumizing, featuring ingredients such as keratin or biotin. These formulations provide a delightful boost of body and fullness to your delicate strands.

Thick Hair

Pamper your thick locks with moisturizing and detangling conditioners enriched with ingredients like almond oil or avocado oil. These nourishing elements effortlessly soften and untangle your lush tresses.

Curly Hair

Embrace your curls with moisturizing and detangling conditioners infused with the goodness of aloe vera or coconut oil. These ingredients offer much-needed hydration and definition to your curly locks, taming frizz and enhancing manageability.

Damaged Hair

Revive and fortify damaged hair with repairing and strengthening conditioners featuring ingredients like keratin or protein. These potent components work diligently to mend and strengthen your hair, promoting resilience and health.

Tips for smooth hair with conditioner

  • Use a Leave-in Conditioner: If you have extremely dry or damaged hair, using a leave-in conditioner can provide extra moisture and protection throughout the day.
  • Don’t Overdo it: Using too much conditioner can weigh down your hair and make it look greasy. Follow the instructions on the bottle and adjust the amount based on your hair length and thickness.
  • Experiment with Different Brands: Not all conditioners are created equal, so it’s okay to try different brands until you find one that works best for you.
  • Avoid Heat Styling: Heat styling tools such as curling irons and straighteners can damage your hair and reduce the effectiveness of your conditioner. Use them sparingly or avoid them altogether.

FAQs

  1. Can I use conditioner without shampooing first? Yes, you can use a conditioner without shampooing your hair first. However, it may not be as effective in removing dirt and oil from your hair, so it’s best to use it after shampooing.
  2. How often should I use conditioner? It depends on your hair type and needs. If you have dry or damaged hair, using conditioner every time you wash your hair can help restore moisture and prevent breakage. If you have oily hair, you may only need to use it once or twice a week.
  3. Can I leave conditioner on for too long? Leaving the conditioner on for longer than the recommended time can cause buildup and make your hair look greasy. It’s best to follow the instructions on the bottle and rinse it off after a couple of minutes.
  4. Is it okay to use conditioner on scalp? While conditioner is designed to moisturize and detangle the ends of your hair, it’s not necessary to apply it to your scalp. In fact, using too much conditioner on your scalp can cause buildup and make your hair look greasy.
  5. Can men use conditioner? Yes, men can and should use conditioner as part of their hair care routine. It can help improve the texture and appearance of their hair, making it easier to manage and style.

Final Takeaway

Conditioner is an essential hair care product that helps to restore moisture, improve manageability, and reduce breakage and frizz. By following the tips and advice in this article, you can get the most out of your conditioner and maintain healthy-looking hair. So, next time you pick up a bottle of conditioner, you will know exactly what it does and how to use it effectively.

12 STYLISH HAIR TWISTS FOR MEN IN 2024

Twists remain a popular and practical choice for men with afro-textured hair. Offering a stylish appearance while minimizing maintenance, twists are a versatile hairstyle that can be worn on both short and long hair.

This protective style falls into three main categories:

  • Dreadlock Twists: For those seeking a more textured and defined look.
  • Loose Hair Twists: Suitable for both thick and thin hair, offering a variety of styles.
  • Sponge Twists: A popular option for short hair, creating a defined and textured appearance.

TRIANGLE TWISTS

While boxes are the traditional parting system for twists and braids, triangle parts offer a distinctive and visually appealing alternative. 

The twisting technique remains the same, with the key difference being in the placement of the roots.

Triangle parts create a unique and noticeable style that sets them apart from traditional box-part twists.

SPONGE TWISTS

Twists aren’t just for those with long hair. Men with shorter hair can also achieve this stylish look using a sponge twisting technique.

The sponge, designed with multiple holes, is ideal for curling and twisting natural hair. For short hair, this is a great way to achieve a desired style. Remember to start with damp hair, apply a leave-in conditioner, and rotate the sponge throughout your hair.

Pairing short hair twists with a taper fade or shape-up can create a modern and sophisticated look.

BLEACHED TWISTS

For those seeking to make a statement, bleached twists offer a bold and attention-grabbing variation of this hairstyle.

There are several bleaching options to consider:

  • Bleaching the Ends: A subtle yet stylish way to add a touch of color.
  • Bleaching a Few Strands: A more textured look with strategically placed highlights.
  • Bleaching the Whole Head: A dramatic and eye-catching transformation.

While bleaching can be done at home, it’s highly recommended to entrust this process to a professional hairstylist. This will help prevent damage to your hair and ensure optimal results.

THICK TWISTS

To create thick twists, simply use more hair than usual when starting the twisting process. This will result in a fuller and more voluminous look.

Thick twists are a versatile style that suits a wide range of hair types and textures. They are also relatively easy to achieve, making them accessible to most people with basic braiding skills.

One of the advantages of using more hair for twists is that the braiding process is often quicker than with thinner twists.

TWO STRAND TWISTS (ON DREADLOCKS)

Two strand twists have become a staple hairstyle for men with afro-textured hair, renowned for their simplicity, protective qualities, and distinctive rope-like appearance. This style offers the convenience of lasting up to six weeks, making it a popular choice for busy individuals.

Rappers like Lil Durk and Lil Wayne have played a significant role in popularizing two strand twists, incorporating them into their signature looks.

Often used as a post-wash styling technique for dreadlocks, two strand twists involve taking two locs and wrapping them around each other, securing the ends with rubber bands. It’s important to note that this style can cause hair shrinkage, so the final length may not accurately reflect the true length of your hair.

TWIST OUT (ON DREADLOCKS)

One of the many benefits of two strand twists is the stunning twist out that results when you unravel your dreadlocks. This style is achieved by tightly twisting your hair for several weeks and then allowing it to unravel, creating a voluminous and textured look. The video above showcases a beautiful twist out achieved after a six-week period.

The twist out typically lasts for four to five days before requiring restyling. This versatile style is a favorite among men with afro-textured hair.

If your hair is long enough, you have the flexibility to wear it up or down, allowing you to customize your look to your preference.

TWO STRAND TWISTS (ON LOOSE CURLY HAIR)

While two strand twists are commonly associated with dreadlocks, they can also be a stylish option for loose curly hair. The main difference is that the hair may not appear as long as it would on dreads. However, you have the flexibility to style these twists thick or thin to suit your preference.

For optimal results, it’s recommended to consult with a hairstylist who can provide personalized guidance and ensure proper technique.

If you’re looking for a quick tutorial, follow these steps:

  1. Prepare Your Hair: Wash and condition your hair thoroughly for a smooth process.
  2. Section Your Hair: Part your hair in the middle and divide it into four equal sections. Secure the unused sections with hair pins.
  3. Damp Hair is Essential: Ensure your hair is damp before starting the twisting process.
  4. Twist Two Strands: Take two strands of hair and twist them around each other.
  5. Continue Twisting: Continue twisting all the way to the ends of your hair and secure them with a rubber band.
  6. Set with Spray: Lightly spritz your hair with a setting spray to help the twists hold.

For more detailed instructions and visual demonstrations, we recommend watching tutorials on YouTube or consulting with a professional hairstylist.

TWIST OUT ON LOOSE CURLY HAIR

After keeping your two strand twists in your loose curly hair for a period of time, you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful twist out.

To begin, gently dampen your hair before carefully unraveling the twists, starting from the ends. As you work your way up, you’ll notice your hair forming a curly pattern. This is a direct result of the twisting process. For tighter curls, unravel each coil only slightly.

To expedite the process and add volume, you can use a comb to gently lift the roots. This will enhance the definition and fullness of your curls.

HIGH-TOP TWISTS

The high-top hairstyle, characterized by its shaved sides and long top, is instantly recognizable. Adding twists to this classic style creates a truly unique and eye-catching look.

To create high-top twists, slightly dampen your hair with hairspray and use a sponge to rotate it around your hair. The level of aggression you use will determine the thickness of your twists. This technique is often used as a starting point for dreadlocks.

THIN TWISTS

In contrast to thick twists, thin twists require significantly more patience and precision. The process is time-consuming but ultimately rewarding.

While thin twists may demand more maintenance than thicker styles, they offer a visually appealing alternative that can provide a refreshing break from the bulkier look.

FLAT TWISTS

Flat twists combine the elements of two strand twists and cornrows into a single hairstyle. To achieve this look, two strands of hair are twisted together and then laid flat against the scalp, creating a rope-like braid.

Unlike traditional two strand twists, which are typically performed off the scalp, flat twists are installed directly on the scalp, hence the name. This style offers a refreshing alternative to traditional cornrows.

TWISTS WITH UNDERCUT

Similar to high-top twists, undercut twists feature a distinctive contrast between long hair on top and shorter hair on the sides and back. However, the undercut style involves a more dramatic cut, with the hair on the sides and back gradually tapering down to nothing around the ears and neck. This creates a noticeable difference between the top and sides.

The undercut haircut provides a foundation for natural, curly hair, adding length and volume. By incorporating twists into this style, you can create a completely unique and eye-catching look. Twists can be two-strand, three-strand, twist-outs, or sponge twists, allowing you to choose the style that best suits your preferences.

HOW TO TWIST HAIR

While visuals can be helpful, here’s a written guide to assist you in twisting medium or long hair:

  1. Part Your Hair: Divide your hair into four equal sections by parting it in the middle and across.
  2. Secure Sections: Secure the sections you’re not working on with hair pins.
  3. Dampen Your Hair: Lightly spritz your hair with a liquid spray to dampen it.
  4. Start Twisting: Begin twisting two strands of hair around each other in a hand-over-hand motion. Continue until each strand resembles a rope.
  5. Complete the Twists: Twist all the way down to the ends of your hair and secure them with rubber bands. Note that fine hair may unravel more easily due to its lack of grip.
  6. Set with Spray: Once you’ve completed all the twists, lightly spritz your hair with a setting spray to help them hold.

HOW TWISTS FOR MEN SHOULD BE MAINTAINED

Twists are a fantastic protective hairstyle that can last up to six weeks. To maximize their duration and ensure your hair remains healthy, it’s essential to follow a proper maintenance routine. Here are some simple tips to keep your twists looking great and minimize damage:

  • Make sure Twists aren’t too tight

If you experience pain from tight twists, consider it a warning sign from your scalp. Tight twists can lead to damage, bumps, infected follicles, and even temporary or permanent hair loss. While it’s normal for twists to feel slightly tight initially, persistent or worsening tightness is a cause for concern. If you notice this, it’s important to loosen or redo your twists to avoid potential complications.

  • Moisturize your scalp

Even with a protective hairstyle like twists, moisturizing your scalp remains essential. Proper scalp care helps maintain defined, healthy, and hydrated twists.

The market offers a wide range of natural hair products, so take the time to find one that best suits your hair’s needs. Regular moisturizing will contribute to the overall health and longevity of your twists.

  • Oil your Scalp

Regular scalp oiling offers numerous benefits, including preventing breakage, reducing growth fatigue, restoring moisture, protecting strands, and improving blood circulation. These factors contribute to a healthy scalp, which is essential for optimal hair growth.

To reap these benefits, incorporate weekly scalp massages into your hair care routine. This simple practice can stimulate the scalp and promote healthy hair growth.

  • Protect your twists while at Night

Sleeping with your hair unwrapped can expose it to friction from your pillowcase, leading to breakage and dryness. For those with afro-textured hair, using a head wrap or durag at night is a common and effective way to protect your twists and maintain their health.

  • Ensure you take your Hair out every 6 Weeks

While twists offer a protective style, it’s essential to remember that your hair still needs to breathe. Washing your twists every six weeks is a recommended practice for maintaining good hygiene.

Over time, your twists will be exposed to dirt and environmental factors, making regular cleaning necessary. This can be done at home or by a professional hairstylist.