The short answer
Use conditioner every time you shampoo, but only on the mid-lengths and ends, never the scalp. Choose it for your hair type: light and protein-rich for fine or thinning hair, richer and moisturising for dry, curly or afro hair.
How to use conditioner
- Squeeze out excess water after shampooing, so the conditioner isn’t diluted.
- Apply a small amount to the mid-lengths and ends.
- Spread it evenly with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb, and detangle while it’s in.
- Leave it for a minute or two, or as directed, then rinse well.
Should you put conditioner on your scalp?
No. Conditioner is made to smooth and protect the hair shaft, not to clean skin. On the scalp it can leave residue, weigh down the roots and, for sensitive scalps, cause irritation. The only exceptions are treatments specifically designed for the scalp.
How to choose a conditioner for your hair type
| Your hair | Look for | Go easy on |
|---|---|---|
| Fine, flat or thinning | Light, volumising formulas with proteins or panthenol | Rich masks and oils at the roots |
| Dry, coarse or damaged | Moisturising conditioners with shea butter or oils | Very light rinses that don’t soften enough |
| Curly, coily or afro | Creamy, rich conditioners and a leave-in | Brushing or combing when dry |
| Weak, stretchy or breaking | Protein-enriched conditioners, used now and then | Protein every wash, which can make hair stiff |
| Sensitive scalp | Fragrance-free formulas, kept off the scalp | Heavily perfumed products |
Deep conditioning treatments are useful once or twice a month, not every wash. Leave-in oils, such as argan oil, protect the ends but can overheat hair under a hairdryer or in strong sun, so use them sparingly.
The best conditioner for thinning hair
People with thinning hair often skip conditioner, worried it will make their hair flatter. But conditioner reduces tangling and breakage, which protects the hair you have. Choose a light formula, use it on the lengths only, and rinse well. No conditioner can regrow hair; if you’re thinning, it’s worth finding out what is causing your hair loss.
Related advice
If something isn’t right with your hair or scalp, I’ll take your history, examine your hair and scalp closely and give you a written plan. You can read what happens at a consultation before you book.
Questions
How often should you use conditioner?
Every time you shampoo, on the mid-lengths and ends. Use richer deep-conditioning treatments only once or twice a month.
Should you put conditioner on your scalp?
No. Conditioner is for the hair shaft. On the scalp it can leave residue, flatten the roots and irritate sensitive skin.
What is the best conditioner for thinning hair?
A light, volumising conditioner used on the lengths only. It won’t regrow hair, but it reduces tangling and breakage.