Deep conditioning is pretty much exactly what it sounds like. It provides your hair with the extra moisture that it requires to heal and maintain great hair.
With the increasing environmental changes and pollution, it is vital to take extra care of ourselves. This includes our hair as it is in direct contact with the environment.
Let’s start at the beginning.
What are deep conditioning hair masks?
While regular conditioners contain humectants and emollients, deep conditioners contain a higher amount and a more concentrated form. In case you were wondering, humectants help add moisture to the hair by binding with water, and emollients are moisturisers that protect hair with a moisture trapping film.
How do I use a deep conditioning hair mask?
- The most effective way to deep condition is, to begin with, a clean scalp. It is, therefore, a good idea to wash your hair before this process, so your scalp and hair are clean and ready.
- When applying the product, pay attention to your hair type. Thick, dry and curly hair can use the mask closer to the scalp, while thin, straight hair requires it only from the middle section of your hair. Always concentrate on the driest part of your hair which is usually the ends.
- After the application, ensure that the product is applied equally everywhere by running your hands through your hair and taking out any knots.
- If possible, steaming the hair with the mask on can be very beneficial with absorption and efficiency. In some cases, you can provide heat through a blow dryer as well, but it is important to note that the heat should remain low.
- Keep the mask on for the amount of time given on the label. After that, it is time to rinse it off!
How do I know which deep conditioning hair mask to use?
There are two options in this case. You can make a mask at home with natural ingredients, or you can buy one. Whether making one at home or buying one, what determines the kind of mask you need is your hair type and hair goals. The ingredients in the mask are of utmost importance. Some ingredients used in homemade masks include yoghurt, eggs, avocado and olive oil. While buying store-bought products, you can search for ingredients like honey, shea butter, sunflower oil, coconut oil etc. Today you can also get customised masks specifically for your hair through a dermatologist or hairstylist.
Can I deep condition overnight?
It is not necessary to leave a deep conditioner or mask on overnight as it does its job within 30 minutes. It is recommended not to keep it on for too long as it can cause Hygral Fatigue. This happens because there is too much moisture trying to penetrate your hair shaft. So always read your product label and follow the instructions given there. And to be safe, never use a deep conditioner for more than 30 minutes.
How often should I deep condition my hair?
Deep conditioning frequency depends on the health and texture of your hair. If your hair is healthy or straight and thin and prone to oiliness, then once or twice a month can be enough. On the other hand, if your hair is dehydrated and damaged or coloured, then doing this more often is helpful. But either way, you should not do it more than once a week.
Benefits of deep conditioning
- Reduces damage caused by colouring or bleaching by adding extra moisture.
- Minimises frizz
- It helps protect against split ends
- Increases elasticity
- Enhances texture
- Hydrates and moisturises
Can deep conditioning frequently damage your hair?
Overdoing anything can have bad results. It is the same with deep conditioning. Doing it more than once a week can result in doing more harm than good. However, apart from over conditioning your hair, there aren’t any reasons for it to damage your hair. Unless the products you are using have ingredients that you might be allergic to. If you have scalp issues like psoriasis, dandruff, or other conditions, always consult your doctor before using anything new on your hair.
The silver lining
Deep conditioning your hair is the answer to all your moisture problems! Whether you have dry hair, oily hair, curly hair, thin hair, deep conditioning is always a tool at your disposal for that extra boost!
No matter what your hair type, this one is for you.
Disclaimer
The natural remedies mentioned in the blog are the widely popular ones. It is in no way a substitute for medical advice, treatment or diagnosis. Avoid using these if you have sensitive skin or are prone to allergies.
Before trying any natural remedy, always test a small quantity on your skin to check for any adverse reactions or allergy to any particular ingredient. In case of emergency or any reaction, immediately connect with a doctor who can offer the proper treatment.
FAQ’s
- Can I use a regular conditioner to deep condition my hair?
You can. However, daily conditioners don’t have all the ingredients that deep conditioners and masks do. Deep conditioners have more healing properties for the desired effect, while daily conditioners are made light and gentle for regular use.
2. Does my hair need to be wet?
Yes, we recommend using a deep conditioner after a good wash, so your hair will be wet, but you can squeeze out the excess water from it before applying the mask.
3. What happens if I don’t rinse out my conditioner?
Conditioners, especially deep conditioners, are meant to be rinsed out. If left in, they can restrict your natural oil production and create more damage like split ends and hair breakage. So definitely don’t do that. Deep conditioning masks are thicker than regular conditioners. Therefore, they are meant to be kept on just for 10 – 20 minutes.
4. What do I do after I deep condition my hair?
Rinse your hair out and enjoy that soft, beautiful glow! We highly recommend air drying your hair if possible as it avoids damage from heat products. If using a styling product or a hairdryer, make sure it is on low heat and use a hair protectant before using it.
