Is deep conditioning necessary? Is it worth it? We have questioned this ourselves as well as many specialists out there. There are many debates whether or not it is a myth. In order to answer that we took this myth/debate to the test. We tested few of our deep conditioners on ourselves and combined it with a bit of scientific explanation to hopefully come up with a good answer.
What is a deep conditioner?
Deep conditioner has similar benefits as regular conditioner which is:
So why invest in a deep conditioner?
If the benefits of deep conditioner and regular conditioner are similar then why invest more money into buying another usually more expensive conditioner? We had to dig a little bit into scientific explanation of how hair works to answer that question. Our hair, once properly washed, is able to penetrate small molecules into its cuticle and cortex such as water and certain oils. For this to happen the hair needs about 1-2 minutes of absorption time which is what's required for regular conditioner. We also learned, that in order for the hair to reach its maximum saturation, the hair requires to be soaked about 15 minutes which is what required for most of the deep conditioning treatments. Deep conditioners are also thicker in texture, more potent and specifically engineered for a slower and longer penetration period. They have more time to fulfill the cuticle with potent nutrients, oils and proteins in order to repair it. Also, the deep conditioner usually leaves a thin protective film around each hair to further protect it from daily and environmental stress.
What did we learn after testing deep conditioners?
After testing few of our deep conditioners we noticed great longer lasting results. The hair looks stronger, healthier, smoother, shinier and visibly repaired split ends. Something that regular conditioner was not able to achieve even after consistent use.
What's our conclusion?
We believe that deep conditioners do make a big difference than a regular conditioner and the results we have seen are quiet compelling. However, if you experience unusual hair fallout after a regular conditioner, then we do not recommend deep conditioning. I personally, have thin hair and deep conditioning has negative effect on me because I lose a lot of hair. Give it a try yourself and let us know what you think.
Who benefits from deep conditioning?
Deep conditioning is good for curly, thick, coarse, frizzy as well as color and chemically treated hair.
How often is it good to use a deep conditioner?
It is usually recommended to use a deep conditioner once a week. It also depends on your hair and how damaged is it. If you have normal hair there is no need to deep condition it often, however for those who have chemically treated, frizzy hair, or live in harsh weather environments then once a week deep conditioning is recommended.
Our favorite deep treatments/conditioners so far:
We have made a list of our favorite deep conditioners that we have tested and we know they worked on our customers and happy volunteers.
Amika The Kure Intense Bond Repair Mask is specifically designed for thick, coarse hair. It provides visible results from the first treatment. It helps to smooth, hydrate and repair hair.
Amika Soulfood Nourishing Mask is a great deep treatment for dry, normal to thin hair. Enriched with Jojoba oils to provide and restore lost moisture in dry brittle hair.
Olaplex N8 Bond Intense Moisture Mask is a great product for dry, brittle, over processed hair. It restores hairs moisture, adds a good boost of volume and incredible shine.
Olaplex N3 Hair Perfector is an amazing product for deep hair repair. Although, it is not a conditioner rather a deep treatment. Provides visible results of hair repair, strengthening, and healthier appearance. Great for all hair types.
Pureology Color Fanatic Multi-Tasking Deep Conditioning Mask is a great deep treatment mask for color treated hair. It has 21 benefits and thousands of positive reviews. It is also infused with special AntiFade Complex® which helps to protect your color from fading away. We definetely liked this one!