Hair can become dry and damaged because of styling tools, chemical treatments or environmental exposure. Some hair types, such as naturally curly hair, are especially prone to dryness and damage. Choosing the right deep conditioners is critical to avoid further damage, reduce breakage and improve the hair's overall appearance.
Significance
Hair conditioners restore the moisture stripped by daily life, shampooing, chemical treatments and styling processes. Adequate conditioning is especially important for very dry, damaged hair. Daily conditioners are typically used after shampooing or may be used in lieu of shampoo, according to Naturally Curly, a comprehensive website offering information on care for curly, typically dry hair. If your hair is damaged, avoid daily shampooing to allow the natural oils to remain in your hair. Deep conditioning treatments should be used at least once a week if your hair is damaged.
Function
After shampooing, work conditioner into the length of your hair. Consider combing through your hair to detangle it while you are using the conditioner. Leave conditioner in place for one minute, then rinse well. Follow with a cool water rinse. Use conditioner when you get your hair wet, even if you're not washing it, recommends Didi Gluck of "Marie Claire" magazine. Work conditioner into your scalp and rinse well, then condition the length of your hair normally. Commercial deep-conditioning treatments can be applied to damp hair, combed through and left in place for three to five minutes before being rinsed away.
Types
Conditioning hair treatments typically contain three key ingredients. Emollients, including oils and butters, add moisture to the hair. Proteins, such as silk and soy protein, help to support the hair and reduce breakage. Humectants encourage the hair to absorb moisture. Choose daily and deep conditioners with protein to temporarily repair the hair shaft and moisture to deal with dryness. If you have naturally curly hair, humectants are essential, according to Naturally Curly.
Considerations
Treat your hair to occasional oil treatments. Use a purchased hot oil treatment or work olive or coconut oil through your hair. Apply the oil to damp hair, then wrap in plastic wrap or a plastic shower cap. Use a hair dryer or hot towel to add heat, and leave the oil in place for at least 15 minutes or as long as overnight. Wash out and condition normally, recommends Daily Glow, a website devoted to skin care, hygiene and hair care.
Features
Deep protein treatments are another option for very damaged hair. These treatments temporarily reconstruct the shaft of the hair. Gentle protein treatments can be used weekly, bi-weekly or monthly, but deeper ones may not need to be repeated as frequently, according to the hairstyling website Hair Finder. In some cases, protein treatments may be drying. Follow protein masks with deep moisturizing conditioners and consult your stylist if you are concerned.
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