Common mistakes when using conditioner and hair mask

Many people use hair masks instead of conditioner hoping to provide more nutrients to their hair, but this method can make hair strands stiff and coarse.

1I once used hair oil instead of conditioner because I saw a colleague doing it. I'm wondering if this method has any negative effects and if it's suitable for all hair types?[email protected].

Reply:

In principle, both conditioner and hair mask are used for daily hair care and nourishment. They differ only in consistency and some ingredients, but due to their different functions, their effects are also different. Conditioner is typically used after shampooing to soften and smooth hair, while hair masks are mostly used to treat damaged hair. Therefore, you should not use conditioner and hair masks interchangeably.

Conditioners contain panthenol and polymers that help make hair softer and smoother. The main components of conditioner are nourishing compounds and oils, while hair masks contain nourishing particles. The nourishing compounds in conditioner don't penetrate deeply into the hair, so conditioner needs to be used more frequently.

Conversely, damaged hair is often damaged from within its structure, so it needs a product that provides deep nourishment, something conditioner alone cannot do. Hair masks are created for this purpose and contain CLA – a substance that acts as a carrier to deliver nutrients deep into the hair structure – or MEA – a substance found in hair dyes to gently open the hair cuticle (unlike conditioner).

Therefore, if your hair is normal, conditioner alone is sufficient, but for damaged hair, conditioner won't be as effective. Conversely, hair masks are suitable for damaged hair, but using a hair mask instead of conditioner will make your hair stiff and rough. That's also why you should use conditioner after a hair mask to soften and smooth your hair.

2I don't have much time, so I only use shampoo and occasionally do a hair mask. My hair is a bit dry and frizzy, but do I need to use conditioner because I heard that regular conditioning is even better than a hair mask?[email protected].

Reply:

If your hair is normal and shows no signs of damage to your scalp, you should use conditioner regularly instead of a hair mask because conditioner provides more suitable daily hair care. Additionally, using conditioner takes less time than a hair mask. However, if your hair is slightly damaged, you can try the following method (long-term use is not recommended):

- Dampen your hair with warm (or cool) water.

- Apply a generous amount of conditioner evenly to your hair and leave it on for 10-15 minutes.

- Rinse with water and use regular shampoo.

Finally, use a small amount of conditioner for one last rinse.

This method is suitable for slightly dry and damaged hair, but not to the point of needing a deep conditioning treatment. It should be applied until the hair returns to its normal state, after which only conditioner should be used after shampooing.

According to Family.net