CONDITIONER 101
Do you ever wonder if you are using the best conditioner for your hair? While everyone knows just how important shampoo is for keeping our locks looking their best, things can get quite confusing when it comes to conditioner. Should it be used daily? Can it weigh your hair down? What does it actually do? With so many different options on the market, and all the myths surrounding conditioners, choosing the right one can be a real challenge. Here’s a breakdown of everything you need to know about shampoo’s best friend…
WHY YOU NEED CONDITIONER
Probably the most important stage in the hair washing process, proper conditioning is a must if you want to make sure your hair stays moisturized, shiny and frizz-free. Typically used right after shampooing, conditioner smooths the cuticle of your hair, evens out its pH, and replaces the moisture lost during shampooing, leaving your hair more manageable and shiny. Although conditioner is important for all hair types, there are many myths surrounding this tricky styling product. These are a few facts you most likely didn’t know about:
EVERYONE NEEDS IT. Yep, that’s right. No matter what your hair type, conditioner is an absolute must! Even if you have oily or fine hair, conditioner is essential to keep your hair looking and feeling healthy and good. The key is finding one that works for your hair without weighing it down.
-
IT WORKS INSTANTLY. Leaving your conditioner on for ages doesn’t make it work better. Thanks to all the advances in technology, the benefits of your conditioner are pretty much instant.
-
THE SAME TYPE OF SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER WORK BEST. Shampoo-conditioner duos are specifically designed to work together and balance the power of the other, which is why it’s important to use a pair.
-
IT PREVENTS TOWEL DAMAGE. Wet hair is most susceptible to damage and can easily break, but by using conditioner you can effectively protect your cuticles from damage caused by towel drying.
-
NEVER, EVER APPLY IT TO YOUR ROOTS. Always avoid applying conditioner directly to the scalp, especially if your hair tends to look greasy quickly. This will only cause the conditioner to build up and block your pores. Instead, start from the ends and work your way up to the mid-lengths of your hair. While the hair at your roots is freshly grown and usually not damaged, your ends need the extra moisture to look healthy and stay manageable.
-
NOT ALL CONDITIONERS ARE GOOD FOR YOUR HAIR. Many conditioners are based on silicones - unnatural ingredients, similar to rubber or plastic, that create the temporary illusion of healthy hair, but have extremely damaging effects in the long run. Unfortunately, silicones aren’t the only no-go ingredients you need to be on the lookout for. Parabens, which are used as preservatives, can cause dry, dull and brittle hair and even tear apart the cuticle covering the hair shaft. To avoid stripping your hair of its natural nutrients, buy products that are free of silicones, parabens and other toxic ingredients.
-
HAIR DOESN’T GET ‘USED TO’ CONDITIONER. A very popular hair myth is that you need to change your conditioner brand regularly to avoid getting used to it. However, the truth is that absolutely nothing suggests your hair gets used to your products - you just need to find a brand free of ingredients that do more harm than good in the long run.
-
YOU DON’T NEED TO SHAMPOO TO CONDITION. Shampooing daily can quickly dry your hair out and lead to split ends. If you feel your hair is extremely dry, try skipping your shampoo routine every other day and just condition your hair to give your locks some extra strength and keep them moisturized.
WHAT SHOULD YOU LOOK FOR IN A CONDITIONER?
Introducing the moisture back into your locks can be accomplished by selecting the right conditioner, but it’s essential to make sure you aren’t loading your locks down with harmful synthetic ingredients that aren’t doing your hair any favors. Choosing a conditioner free from sulfates, parabens, silicones and other harmful toxic ingredients that cause damage and build-up is an important step if you are looking to significantly improve your overall hair health.
Deeply moisturizing and reparative with organic coconut oil, argan oil, jojoba oil, and neem oil, ViTA’s nutrient-rich conditioner nourishes deep into the hair shaft without weighing your hair down or causing it to appear greasy. Vitamin B-5 adds immediate strength and elasticity, reducing breakage, while hydrolyzed rice protein adds volume and bounce, leaving your hair moisturized with a natural, healthy shine and protected from damage. Designed for all hair types, ViTA’s conditioner is ideal for everyday use. Since ViTA knows there’s absolutely no need to compromise your health or the Planet’s health for gorgeous hair, all of ViTA’s formulas are certified toxin-free by the Environmental Working Group - what more could you ask for?!