Hey there, busy moms! If you’re like me, you know how precious every minute of your day is. You’re juggling a hundred things at once, and self-care often takes a backseat. But what if I told you that a simple, often overlooked product in your bathroom can be a game-changer in your daily routine?
In this blog post, I’m going to share with you three ways on how to use conditioner that will not only save you time but also leave your hair looking fabulous. These time-saving tips have been a game-changer for me, and I can’t wait to pass them on to you.
Picture yourself enjoying a luxurious shower and emerging with soft, manageable hair that doesn’t need hours of styling. Imagine having more time for yourself, your family, and all those other important tasks on your to-do list.
So, if you’re ready to reclaim some ‘me-time’ and simplify your daily hair routine, keep reading. I promise these conditioner hacks will make your life as a mom just a little bit easier and more enjoyable.
What is a Conditioner?
A conditioner is a hair care product that is used after shampooing to help improve the manageability, texture, and appearance of your hair. Unlike shampoos that clean your scalp and hair by removing dirt and oil, conditioners work by adding moisture and nourishment to your hair.
Types of Conditioner
There are a few types of hair conditioner you can choose depending on your hair needs or specific requirements you want. There are the types where you can choose the ingredients you prefer, for example, organic shampoo and conditioner which are kinder to the environment and work just as well as chemically ones.
But there are also the types where you can choose how to use conditioner (different application methods) and for different hair conditions that you want to counter. Here are the examples of the conditioner types:
- Leave-in Conditioner
- Thickening Conditioner
- Moisturizing Conditioner
- Protein Conditioner
- Cream Conditioner
- Instant Conditioner
- Deep Conditioner
In the next part of this blog, we will be discussing in detail how to use some of these conditioners, since they separately need their own method.
The Right Ways to Use a Conditioner
Type 1: The Regular Ol’ Conditioner
Moms! The first method is just the regular conditioner that we are all familiar with, the one that we all use in our showers. Before beginning the routine, make sure you choose the right conditioner for your hair, whether you have frizzy hair, dry hair, or even colored hair, pick the one that is right for you, and let’s get right into the steps.
How to use a conditioner with a regular conditioner:
1. Wash your hair with a shampoo!
Make sure to scrub and massage that scalp to remove any dead skin and impurities from the skin. This is what shampoo is for because later on the conditioner is not gonna clean the scalp, it will only touch the hair. If you have an oily scalp, use a natural shampoo that is gentle so it is gentle enough to be used daily. Check out natural shampoo for moms for recommendations. Plus, a conditioner is best to be applied on wet hair.
2. Apply your conditioner
Once all of your shampoo is rinsed off, wring out the water from your hair a little bit. Then pump out as much product as you need to cover your entire hair (you might need more if you have longer locks). Make sure you massage it on the ends of the hair, and thoroughly between the hairs. Try to avoid the scalps. Careful if you have oily scalps, applying conditioner on the scalp might not be ideal for you!
3. Let it do its work
See the packaging of the conditioner bottle, and see how many minutes to leave it in before rinsing it off. Usually, it should be between 3-5 minutes, but between you and me, sometimes I just don’t have the time to wait, 1-2 minutes works for me just fine. In short, it depends on your hair.
4. Rinse it all off
Once the time’s up, rinse out thoroughly. Make sure that no conditioner is left in your hair because it will make your hair feel greasy and you might not be able to style them.
Type 2: Leave-in Conditioner
A leave-in conditioner works differently than a regular conditioner which you rinse off. This is a type of product that is meant to be left in your hair, without rinsing it out.
How to use a leave-in conditioner:
1. Shampoo your hair first!
Just like before, make sure you clean your scalp thoroughly with shampoo and then gently pat dry those strands before applying the leave-in conditioner.
2. Apply on wet hair
Spray the product or pour it onto your palm, and then apply generously throughout your hair focusing on the ends first. If you use too much and feel like your hair is greasy or heavy, just wash a bit of it with water but don’t shampoo again!
3. Brush your hair
Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to distribute the product evenly throughout your hair, making sure all strands are coated.
4. Style as desired
After applying the leave-in conditioner, you can style your hair as usual. This type of conditioner is great for those who have dry and frizzy hair, but make sure not to use too much or your hair might look greasy.
Type 3: Deep Conditioner
A deep conditioner is a type of hair treatment that provides intense nourishment and moisturization to your hair. It is usually used once a week or every two weeks, depending on the condition of your hair.
How to use a deep conditioner:
1. Prep Your Hair
Before using a deep conditioner, it is important to prepare your hair. Start by shampooing your hair with a gentle cleanser and then rinse thoroughly. You may also want to use a clarifying shampoo to remove any build-up or residue from styling products that could interfere with the conditioning process. Once you have washed your hair, make sure it is completely dry before applying the deep conditioner.
2. Applying the Deep Conditioner
Once your hair is dry, apply the deep conditioner evenly throughout your entire head of hair, focusing on the ends and any particularly dry areas. Make sure that all of your hair is covered in the product and leave it on for at least 10 minutes before rinsing out thoroughly with warm water.
3. Heat Activation
For an extra boost of hydration, consider using heat activation when using a deep conditioner. This can be done with either a blow dryer or steam treatment such as a hot oil treatment or steam cap. Heat helps to open up the cuticles of the hair shaft so that the conditioning ingredients can penetrate more deeply into each strand of hair for maximum hydration and nourishment.
4. Finishing Up
Once you have completed the conditioning process, rinse out any remaining product from your hair and then apply a moisturizing leave-in conditioner or serum to help lock in moisture and protect against damage caused by heat styling tools or environmental stressors such as sun exposure or windy days.
Benefits of Using Conditioner the Right Way!
Using conditioner the right way can provide numerous benefits, especially for busy moms who are looking for effective yet time-efficient ways to care for their hair. Here are some of the key advantages:
- Improved Hair Hydration
Proper conditioning helps to hydrate your hair, making it softer, smoother, and more manageable. It prevents dryness and frizz, leaving your locks looking and feeling healthier.
- Enhanced Hair Strength
Conditioner helps strengthen hair by providing a protective barrier, reducing the risk of breakage and split ends. This is crucial for moms who often tie their hair up or use styling tools.
- Detangling Assistance
If your mornings are a rush, conditioner can be a lifesaver. It makes combing and detangling your hair a breeze, saving you time and reducing frustration.
- Enhanced Styling
Conditioners can make it easier to style your hair. Whether you prefer sleek, straight hair or bouncy curls, well-conditioned hair holds styles better and for longer.
- Time-Saving Solutions
By using conditioner in innovative ways you can save time on your hair routine, allowing you to focus on other priorities without compromising on your appearance.
What You Should Avoid
Moms, if you want to achieve those benefits mentioned previously, while you follow the steps I’ve shared, there are some things to avoid that might make conditioners not effective if ignored:
- Avoid Over-Conditioning: Using too much conditioner can weigh down your hair and leave it looking greasy or flat. Stick to the recommended amount and focus on the mid-lengths to ends of your hair, where it’s needed most.
- Don’t Skip Rinsing: Always make sure to rinse out your conditioner thoroughly. The residue left in your hair can make it appear dull and greasy.
- Avoid Applying to the Scalp: Conditioner is meant for the lengths and ends of your hair, not the scalp. Applying it to your scalp can lead to oily roots and even clog hair follicles.
- Don’t Use Hot Water: Washing your hair with scalding hot water can strip away the natural oils and moisture. Instead, use lukewarm water for shampoo and conditioner application.
- Avoid Mixing Shampoo and Conditioner: While some products claim to be a two-in-one solution, it’s generally best to use separate shampoo and conditioner. They serve different purposes, and using them together may not provide the best results.
- Avoid Frequent Use of Deep Conditioners: Deep conditioning treatments are great, but using them too frequently can lead to product buildup and make your hair appear heavy and greasy. Stick to a once-a-week schedule for deep conditioning.
- Don’t Apply Conditioner Before Shampoo: While unconventional methods can work for some, the typical order of hair care is shampoo, then conditioner. Shampoo removes impurities and opens the hair cuticle, while conditioner seals in moisture.
Summary
Conditioner is an essential hair care product for moms, but it’s crucial to use the right type and apply it correctly. Whether you opt for regular conditioner, leave-in, or deep conditioning treatments, make sure to follow the instructions and avoid common mistakes that can hinder your results. By properly using conditioner, you can achieve hydrated, strong, and healthy-looking hair in no time! So take a few extra minutes in your busy schedule to give your hair the love and care it deserves. So, keep these tips in mind next time you reach for that bottle of conditioner and enjoy the benefits of well-nourished, gorgeous locks! Happy conditioning, moms! Cheers to healthy and beautiful hair!
FAQ
Can I use my regular conditioner as a leave-in conditioner, or do I need a specific product for that?
You can use your regular conditioner as a leave-in conditioner in a pinch, but it’s better to use a product specifically designed for leave-in use. These are lighter and won’t weigh down your hair. If you choose to use your regular conditioner, use it sparingly, focusing on the ends, and avoid applying it to your roots.
I’m always in a hurry; can I skip conditioner to save time?
While it’s tempting to skip conditioner when you’re pressed for time, it’s not advisable. Conditioner plays a vital role in maintaining the health and manageability of your hair. If time is a concern, look for time-saving techniques and hacks, as I’ll share in this blog post, to ensure your hair gets the care it needs without added stress.
My hair feels greasy even after using conditioner. What am I doing wrong?
If your hair feels greasy after conditioning, you might be using too much product or applying it too close to your scalp. Remember to apply conditioner to the mid-lengths and ends of your hair, and be sure to rinse it thoroughly. Using a clarifying shampoo occasionally can also help remove any buildup.
What’s the best way to choose the right conditioner for my hair type?
Selecting the right conditioner depends on your hair type and specific needs. For fine or oily hair, opt for a lightweight, volumizing conditioner. If you have dry or damaged hair, go for a moisturizing or repairing conditioner. Experimenting with different products can help you find the one that suits your hair best.
