What Does Leave-in Conditioner Do For Your Hair? {Smooth Out…}

Some people use a leave-in conditioner after their regular hair washing routine, but many people are still unaware of the benefits of using a this type of product. When those people realize just what a leave-in can do for their hair, they often wonder how they went this long without it.

What Does a Leave-in Conditioner Actually Do?

There are a few benefits to using a leave-in conditioner that even a regular washable conditioner cannot boast, according to the experts at Nicehair.org, though it is not the repairing miracle that some would claim. Its uses are more to help the way a hair looks and feels. There are many leave-in brands that contain moisturizing vitamins that can reduce split ends and relieve you of the dryness that plagues many people, especially those with curly or natural hair.

Not only do they make your hair look great, but leave-ins also help to smooth out your hair, ridding it of troublesome tangles. This can not only help it to look great but can also help when you begin to style it since your hair will be easier to manage. Some shampoos and conditioners can add to the buildup from styling products and oils in your hair. Since a leave-in is only meant to be added to the ends of your hair, it will not contribute to that scalp buildup and can be used instead of regular conditioner to reduce the issue.

Another benefit of a leave-in is that many of them are made from organic products so instead of adding a bunch of chemicals to your hair that can damage it further, you can use natural botanicals and oils to keep it looking fresh.

What Are the Different Types of Leave-in Conditioners?

There are a few different types of leave-in conditioners. Since most contain similar ingredients, including proteins, moisturizers, silicones, and strengthening agents, which to choose is best decided by your specific hair type, says Lade at Rehairducation. Leave-ins usually come in three types, including creams, lotions, and sprays. Though similar in make, these are not interchangeable for everybody. Those with thicker hair should stick with the creamy leave-in because it will be able to penetrate the hair, smoothing out any coarseness and softening up your curls.

People with fine hair will find the lotions or sprays more suitable. Because fine hair is usually oilier, these two will not weigh it down further and should only be applied at the ends, so they don’t add buildup to the oiliest area of the scalp. Leave-in conditioners can also be protein or moisture-rich. Though most people will need both of them at some point, they have specific purposes and should be used accordingly. Protein-rich leave-ins should be used by those with weaker hair to repair any damage it may have suffered from repeated use of ponytails, heat styling, or even environmental issues. Moisturizing conditioners are best for people with rougher or drier hair to smooth it out and leave it feeling soft and looking great.

What’s the Best Way to Use a Leave-In Conditioner?

Using a leave-in is quite simple and will only add a few minutes to your normal hair care routine. If you are short on time and your hair can take it, you can even leave out your regular conditioner and just use the leave-in before you style. The first step is to wash your hair, as usual, says Lade. When it is clean, towel it dry, squeezing out as much as the water as you can. If it is too wet, the conditioner will wash away as the water drips from your hair.

Part your hair into a few sections and then apply the leave-in, starting at the ends. This is because the ends are usually the driest and require the most conditioning. Then work your way up the hair. It is not necessary to use it on the scalp. Be sure to use this conditioner sparingly, so it does not add additional weight to your hair. If you find you need a bit more later in the day, add it then rather than loading up your hair just once or you will need to wash it out again and start all over. When the leave-in is applied to your satisfaction, style your hair as usual.

Are Natural Conditioners Effective?

There are a number of natural products that are used in leave-in conditioners that can help to moisturize and condition your hair without relying on harsher chemicals that may cause further damage.

According to the experts at Innovateus, products found in the home such as olive oil can be used as a natural conditioner to moisturize and hydrate your hair. There are many store-bought leave-in conditioners that contain natural oils and botanicals as well including lavender, guava, marigold, and mango. These organic products are excellent for adding shine as well as protecting your hair.

Of course, you don’t need to purchase an expensive leave-in, no matter what the ingredients are. If you have a regular conditioner that you adore, you can make your own leave-in, as demonstrated in this video.

What Does Leave-in Conditioner Do Final Thoughts

Natural or regular, store-bought or DIY, it is up to you to determine the best leave-in conditioner for your hair. After your first use, we’re sure you’ll see the benefits of a leave-in conditioner, and your hair will thank you for the extra care. If you are looking for more hair care articles check out our blog and our hair care buyer’s guides.