Leave-in conditioners, as the name suggests, are conditioners that are not rinsed out of the hair once applied, unlike traditional conditioners. They are great for all hair types: straight, curly, wavy and even chemically treated hair.
Let's see why you need a leave-in conditioner in your curly hair routine and how to best use it.
What is the purpose of a leave-in conditioner?
What does a leave-in conditioner do for your hair? These are some of the questions you may ask yourself if you are on a hair care journey, especially if you have curly or afro-curly hair. Simply put, leave-in conditioners are a panacea for dry, limp, dull and frizzy hair. Leave-in conditioners are formulated to provide hydration to hair and contain proteins that strengthen weak curls and waves.
A leave-in conditioner is great for:
- Moisturize : If you suffer from persistently dry hair, adding a little leave-in conditioner to your curls will make a big difference. Use little, especially if you use other styling products during the week, to avoid weighing your hair down.
- Fight frizz : Frizz can be a problem. Leave-in conditioners, especially those designed for frizzy hair, tend to smooth the hair cuticles and lock in moisture, so your hair doesn't feel dry.
- Strengthen and repair : Leave-in conditioners help strengthen and repair damaged hair.
- Moisturize : Keep your curls hydrated, especially during the week.
There's no need to apply a leave-in conditioner immediately after using a traditional conditioner, as the latter should be enough to add moisture to your curls after shampooing. Leave-in conditioners are usually rich in conditioning agents such as behentrimonium chloride, which is an excellent conditioning agent, and the cheaper version, cetrimonium chloride, which is found in less expensive products. Other great ingredients for hydrating curls are butters like shea butter, avocado oil, aloe vera juice and marshmallow root, which provide hydration and smoothness.
Which leave-in to choose for your hair?
Choose a leave-in conditioner based on your hair concerns, hair/curl type and curl density, and whether you use other styling products after leave-in. For weak or chemically treated curls and waves, Shea Moisture Yogurt and Honey Hydrate and Repair Leave-In is great for all curl types. It comes in a spray and is packed with strengthening and nourishing ingredients.
An oldie but goodie is As I Am Leave-In Conditioner , lightweight but great for hydrating dry hair. This is also a leave-in conditioner suitable for all types of curls, from 3c to 4c.
Leave-in conditioners can come in different forms depending on your preferences and the needs of your hair. Thicker leave-in conditioners, rich with lots of oils and butters tend to be more beneficial for tighter curls or afro hair like Curls Dynasty Kalahari leave in or Cantu leave in.
When to apply a leave-in conditioner?
Leave-in conditioners can be used on dry, damp or freshly washed hair. It's usually the first product you add before you start styling your hair. You should apply a leave-in conditioner if your hair feels dry during the week or if, after washing, it still feels a little rough and traditional conditioner hasn't been enough.
How often to apply a leave-in conditioner depends on the needs of your hair. If you exercise daily and therefore wash your hair very often, using a leave-in conditioner every day or every time you wash your hair is a great way to keep your hair hydrated and conditioned so it isn't susceptible to breakage from frequent washing . If you suffer from dry hair, you can apply a leave-in conditioner during the week before styling to restore the necessary moisture.
How to apply leave-in
- Start with damp or dry hair.
- Apply a small amount of leave-in conditioner to sections of your hair, making sure to distribute the product properly along the length of your hair.
- Use a wide-toothed comb , brush, or fingers to remove knots and tangles.
- Apply other styling products, such as gel or mousse, and style your hair as desired.
