Do I Need To Use A Hair Conditioner?

The short answer is yes, you should use a conditioner at least 2-3 times per week.

The primary purpose of a conditioner is to replenish moisture and lock it in using a combination of emollients, humectants and occlusives.  With the right ingredients and formulation, it can also nourish hair follicles and repair hair damage.  Conditioner is crucial to both the health and appearance of your hair as it works to hydrate, strengthen, detangle, soften, reduce frizz and increase shine.

Our hair is exposed to a multitude of damaging factors such as:

  • Bleaching
  • Coloring
  • Perming/Relaxer
  • Heat styling (blow dry, straightener, curling irons)
  • Tight hairstyles 
  • Over brushing or rough towel drying (friction)
  • Hot water
  • Cold weather
  • Sun exposure

These factors affect the hair cuticle or the outer layer of protection that covers each hair strand.  The cuticle is made of a protein called keratin and it’s arranged in overlapping panels.  Damage occurs when these panels are lifted or opened resulting in breakage, frizz, dry strands and even hair loss.  Conditioner fills in these openings and restores the cuticle.

Choosing The Right Conditioner

Not all conditioners are created equal.  Our two conditioners, Cream Conditioner and Hair Detoxifier Conditioner, were developed using Plant Science Trichology – a holistic approach that integrates scientific research and Eastern plant-based medicinal philosophy.  Each of our trichologist-developed formulation aims to support the body’s natural ability to detoxify and repair for healthy hair and scalp.  Below are some of the key ingredients and their benefits.  It’s also important to note what’s not in the products.

  • Rice Bran Extract - Used for centuries in Japan as a main ingredient in scalp cleansers and skin care. Rice bran extract is the skin and germ of a rice seed that removes impurities with nourishing oils.
  • Rosemary - Keeps the scalp and hair healthy with antibacterial properties.
  • Shea Butter - Rich in fatty acids, Shea Butter contains Vitamin A, E and F which keeps the hair healthy and shiny.
  • Glycerin - Reduces buildup and dandruff. Adds moisture to the hair improving the overall hair health.
  • Coconut Oil - Prevents hair damage by strengthening the hair.
  • No Silicone - Silicone forms a waterproof coating on the hair creating the illusion of smooth hair by blocking out humidity.  However, many silicones are water insoluble, meaning it will take many washes to completely remove it.  So if you use these kinds of conditioners on a regular basis, the silicone builds up and weighs down the hair and makes it harder and harder for moisture to penetrate.  Over time, your hair becomes flat and dry.
  • No Sulfates - Sulfates strip your hair and scalp of its natural oils and it’s not color-safe.

While the core ingredients and benefits are the same for both conditioners, we offer two different formulations depending on your hair and scalp needs:

Cream Conditioner Hair Detoxifier Conditioner
Product Texture Thick cream Gel-cream
Conditioning Level Deep hydration Rich yet lightweight hydration
Hair Type All hair types,
especially dry hair
All hair types,
especially fine hair
Concerns Damage, frizz, breakage Dandruff, itchy scalp, frizz

How To Use Conditioner

Apply about the size of a quarter to wet hair after shampooing and run fingers through hair. Leave in for one minute, then rinse.

For extra shine, apply to dry hair before showering and leave in for 20 minutes. Rinse, shampoo, then condition again.

Do not apply conditioner directly to the scalp, concentrate on the hair, especially the middle and ends.

Conclusion

Conditioner is an essential part of a healthy hair protocol.  Whichever formula you choose, our trichologist-developed conditioners support healthy and beautiful hair:

  • Gently pulls out toxins and removes product build-up.
  • Hydrates, softens and repair damaged hair.
  • Detangles and smoothes hair.
  • Reduces oxidative stress and free radicals and strengthens hair follicles.
  • Anti-inflammatory properties calm and sooth itchy scalp
  • Free of sulfates, silicone
  • Vegan

To discuss and check the status of your hair please contact us for a virtual consultation.