The Conditioning Conundrum
Should You Use Conditioner After A Hair Mask?
When it comes to hair care, finding the right combination of products can seem like an endless quest. Using a nourishing hair mask is a great way to deeply condition damaged strands. But should you bother adding conditioner to your routine after masking?
The answer varies depending on your hair’s needs and the ingredients found in your chosen products.
The Purpose of Conditioners and Masks
Both conditioners and masks aim to moisture hair, but they go about it differently. Conditioners lightly coat the outer layer of hair strands to smooth the cuticle. This protects against friction and makes combing easier. Meanwhile, masks utilize powerful humectants that draw moisture into the hair shaft itself. The thicker texture adheres well and allows the formulas to penetrate deeply before rinsing out.
Masks tend to utilize heavier oils than everyday conditioners to achieve this intense hydration. Applying conditioner after can sometimes weigh fine or limp hair down. But those with thick, dry, or curly locks often rely on both products. Read on to find out if using both after masking is beneficial for your hair type and concerns.
When to Layer Conditioner Over a Mask
If your hair craves moisture, smoothing a conditioner over your strands post-mask seals everything in. The hair cuticle naturally opens and closes in response to temperature and chemical changes. Heat from the shower causes it to lift, allowing the mask beneath to penetrate. Adding conditioner after cooling and rinsing then locks in that moisture. Having issues with knots and tangles? A coat of conditioner also reduces friction. This helps avoid breakage when brushing out your locks.
Additionally, conditioner helps restore hair’s pH balance after the masking process. Many masks utilize acids among their ingredients to open the cuticle enough for deeper penetration. But leaving your strands too acidic can damage over time. Your favorite conditioner helps bring your locks back to a neutral pH.
What About Fine or Oil-Prone Hair ?
Those with finer hair need to take care not to weigh their locks down. Conditioners specifically made for thin, straight hair are ideal in these cases. Alternatively, an acidic rinse after masking can seal in moisture minus extra oils. For those prone to flat, lifeless locks from over-conditioning, a mask may sufficiently quench thirsty strands on its own.
Additionally, fine hair tends to look lank and greasy very easily. So when using a mask containing rich oils and butters, a secondary conditioner may risk overload. Listen to what your hair tells you as you continue your journey toward nourished, shiny strands. With some trial and error, you will find the right balance of products.
Application Tips and Tricks
Once you decide whether layering in conditioner works for your hair type, utilize these application tips:
- Always apply masks to freshly washed hair to allow even saturation down the entire strand length.
- Clip hair up loosely on top of your head after applying your mask according to instructions. This ensures even penetration and cuts down on dripping.
- Rinse with lukewarm water before following up with a wide-tooth comb for even distribution as you condition. This also nets the best results.
- When shampooing after double conditioning, focus just on the scalp area. This avoids stripping the hair ends of all the moisture you just worked so hard to achieve.
- Pay attention to Sunday as a weekly hair masking day, or mix things up with a mid-week mask for an extra hydration boost as needed.
The Takeaway
Deciding whether to use an additional conditioner after masking requires paying attention to your hair’s porosity and current texture. For thick, dry hair, layering can help seal in much-needed moisture to keep strands supple and knot-free. But those with fine locks need to beware of overloading to avoid limp, lifeless hair.
Overall, listen to what your hair tells you. With the right mask and conditioning combo, be on your way toward smooth, shiny strands.