Types of Conditioner

There are many different types of conditioner depending on your hair care needs:

 

·        Moisturizers- These types of conditioners are concentrated with humectants. Humectants are compounds that attract and hold moisture and often contain botanicals and proteins.

·        Reconstructors- The main purpose of a reconstructor is to strengthen hair. It does this by infusing protein into the hair. Look for reconstructors that contain hydrolyzed human hair protein since it contains all 19 amino acids naturally found in hair. The low molecular weight of this protein allows it to better penetrate the hair’s cortex.

·        Acidifiers- Acidifiers have a pH of 2.5 to 3.5 making them as acidic as their name implies. Acidifiers act to close the cuticle of the hair creating shine and bounce. Acidifiers do not weigh hair down which makes them ideal for people with fine or limp hair.

·        Detanglers- Detanglers are essentially acidifiers since they too carry a pH of 2.5 to 3.5. Not only do they close the cuticle of the hair and reduce tangles, they also shield the hair with polymers, which are strings of like-molecules. Some detanglers works instantly and other need several minutes to process.

·        Thermal Proctectors- Thermal protectors are specially designed to protect hair from the dangers of heat styling. These are ideal for people who frequently style their hair with blow-dryers, curling irons, or hot rollers. They work by infusing heat absorbing polymers into the hair which shield the hair from the brunt of the damage.

·        Glossers- Glossers are a cosmetic product for the most part and do little to actually improve the quality of hair. They contain dimethicone or cyclomethicone which are light oils derived from silicone. These oils act to reflect light off the hair, giving the illusion of shine. They are excellent at controlling frizzy hair.

·        Oils- Oils are essential if your hair is dry or overly processed. Since chemical processes strip hair of it natural oil, or sebum, it is necessary to replace that oil. These types of conditioning oils can take dry and porous hair and transform it into soft, pliable hair.

·        Instant Conditioners- This type of conditioner offers minimal conditioning since it is generally only left on the hair 5-10 minutes.

·        Deep Conditioners- Deep conditioners offer great conditioning and should be left on the hair for 20-30 minutes before rinsing. They are usually advertised as creams and have ingredients similar to instant conditioners.

·        Leave-in Conditioners- These are applied after drying the hair and are left on until the next shampoo. They are sold in the form of hair thickeners and blow-drying lotions.

·        Sunscreen conditioners- These conditioners typical contain PABA and Benzophenones to protect hair from the damaging effects of the sun. Excessive exposure to the sun can cause dryness or color loss.