Hair Conditioner: When, How, and Why Men Should Use It

Why You Need Hair Conditioner

Conditioner does as its name suggests: Rather than cleansing strands, it conditions the hair follicleand the effects are immediate. But why? Mens Health puts it succinctly: Each hair is covered in tiny cells which look a bit like fish scales. Damage causes these to stand out which makes the hair look dull, rough and out of condition. Conditioners work by smoothing down these scales so your hair looks smooth and shiny again.

The upshot of smoother strands is less static and fewer split endsso hair is easier to style. But its not just about looks. Whereas shampoo opens the hairs cuticle, conditioner seals it back uplocking nutrients in and pollutants out. This in turn strengthens the hair shaft, preventing breakage, split ends, and even hair loss.

How (and When) to Use It

You can use conditioner immediately after shampooing or on its own. The general recommendation is a few times per week, but you can use it daily. Common sense goes a long way: If you hair is superfine and prone to greasiness, condition less often. If your hair is thick and especially dry or damaged (like from coloring, chlorine, or the sun), it should be a more regular part of your haircare rotation.

Pro Tip: Pick one with soothing natural ingredients, like Hanz de Fuko Natural Conditioner Hanz de Fuko Natural Conditioner, and you can use it as a shave cream in a pinch.

Shampoos Better Half? Not So Fast.

The most common misconception about shampoo and conditioner is that you only need one or the other. Your hair does need bothbut youre not required to use them in tandem. If you shampoo three or four days a week, try conditioning on off days. Because of shampoos moisture-stripping tendencies, youll have to up your conditioner usage the more you lather up. We recommend weaning yourself off the latter so youll need less of the former.

And if you just you cant resist having a two-in-one product on your sink ledge, pick a hair and body washand keep the conditioner separate.

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