How to Apply Conditioner

     Some of our blog readers have wondered how they should apply conditioner. Many people believe it's the same as shampoo. They start at the roots and work to the ends. This is actually the wrong way to do it. The ends are where the most damage occurs, so they're the most important place to apply conditioner. The roots do not need conditioner because the scalp produces natural oils that condition the first few inches of hair. Conditioning the roots can weigh hair down and make it look greasy. No one wants that!
     The first step to conditioning is picking the right one for your hair type. If you have fine or thin hair, pick a light conditioner such as spray-on. This is the same for oily hair, and if your hair is oily do not apply conditioner every time you shampoo. For chemically damaged or dry hair, you will need a deep conditioner. If you just had your hair colored, use a conditioner for color treated hair along with a weekly deep conditioning treatment.
     The most common type of conditioner is the kind that washes out. This kind of conditioner is recommended for all hair types and keeps hair healthy by protecting from environmental damage. It comes in  many different types from moisturizing, smoothing, to kinds used for normal hair. Choose one based on what your hair needs. If you have little to no damage, choose one that says "normal hair." If your hair feels dry, choose one that says "moisturizing." Usually you will want to choose the same kind of conditioner as the shampoo you use.
     After shampooing, squeeze extra water from your hair. Place the right amount of conditioner on the palm of hand. This amount will depend on hair thickness and length. Rub both hands together to distribute. Work through hair the opposite way you would with shampoo. Begin at ends and work upward almost to roots, but do not rub onto scalp. Massage through hair to penetrate hair shafts. Some conditioners need to be left in for a certain amount of time while others you can rinse out right away.
     Just follow the instructions for time on your bottle of conditioner. Rinse hair with lukewarm or cool water. This will seal the cuticle and create shine. Using hot water leaves the cuticle open and causes frizz.
     You may prefer a leave-in conditioner instead. This kind of conditioner adds manageability and shine. It's convenient because you do not have to rinse it out. If leave-in conditioner is right for you, follow these steps. First, begin with towel dried hair. Using leave-in conditioner on wet hair will cause it to drip out, while using it on all the way dry hair will not allow it to absorb the conditioner. If you want conditioning on dry hair, use a small amount of shine serum. Remember that a small amount goes a long way!
     As with regular conditioner, avoid using on the scalp. Place a small amount of leave-in conditioner in palm of hand. The shorter your hair, the less you will need. Most products recommend a pea sized amount for medium hair with average thickness. You can always apply more, so begin with less than you think you'll need. If you apply too much, your hair will turn out greasy and flat. The correct amount of leave-in conditioner will leave your hair smooth and shiny!
     Spread conditioner across both hands by rubbing together to distribute. Gather hair in hands at the nape of neck similar to making a ponytail. Run both hands down the length of hair from ears to ends. Use fingertips to spread conditioner through sections of hair. Comb through hair with a wide toothed comb to further disperse the conditioner. Style as usual.
     Another kind of conditioner is spray-on. This kind of conditioner is best for fine or thin hair, or oily hair that has some dry spots. The benefit of this kind of conditioner is it can be applied as necessary throughout the day and on specific areas of dryness or tangled hair. It can be applied to dry or damp hair.
     To apply, hold bottle 7 to 10 inches from hair. Squirt a few sprays all around hair or on a specific area. Comb through hair to disperse conditioner.
     A deep conditioner is great for dry or damaged hair, and it can benefit healthy hair as well. It shouldn't be used every time you shampoo, but rather once a week. This kind of conditioner deeply penetrates the hair shafts to create healthier, stronger hair and helps to heal damage.
     Deep conditioner should be used prior to your normal hair washing routine. First, dampen hair for optimum absorbtion. Coat hair with the conditioner starting at ends and working up. Some deep conditioners work best if heated, others say to leave in for 5 to 10 minutes. If yours says to heat, cover hair with a shower cap or plastic wrap and blow dry for 15 minutes. Unwrap and rinse, then shampoo and condition as usual.
     I hope this answered your questions about how to apply conditioner. If you have any further questions, stop by The Style Lounge. You can also make and appointment for your next haircut or color while you're here and we sell some great products that will help you have amazing hair. Have a wonderful day!
~Katie White