Whatever your hair type, one thing we can all benefit from is deep conditioning. High heat tools, chemical products and other elements can be so harsh on our tresses. It becomes so important to restore the moisture and nutrients in your hair. Here are five simple deep conditioning tips to guide you on your next wash day:
Find the right hair treatment: The first step is to find the right treatment for your hair. This may take some experimentation. Your hair may have different protein needs, or favor certain oils. If you listen to your hair, it will let you know what’s working. A great treatment to try is the Richee Rich Moisturizing Conditioner because it contains sunflower seed oil. A great benefit from this oil is prevention of dryness and frizziness on your tresses. - Apply the treatment: Apply your treatment to freshly cleansed hair that has been wrung out. Start at the ends (these are the driest bits) and work your way back to the scalp making sure to get all of your strands.
- Warm it up: The next thing you want to do to really supercharge that treatment is add heat. No, I’m not talking about high-temperature heat that can be damaging to your hair. What you want is gentle heat. This can be achieved with a hooded hair dryer on a low setting or a hair steamer. If you wish to move freely while performing your treatment, the Hot Head Deep Conditioning Heat Cap is a perfect solution. Heat enables the hair cuticle to open during your treatment, which allows the product to penetrate the hair shaft to a much greater degree. Treatments with heat result in strands that are more thoroughly moisturized and nourished, leading to longer, healthier hair.
- Relax and let it work: Generally speaking, the ideal time for most heated treatments is 20-30 minutes for maximum benefits. So, sit and watch your favorite show or shop online while you give your hair a special treat. I should note that everyone is different, and your hair may not need a full 30 minute treatment. Listen to your hair and adjust the time based on your hair needs.
- Seal it in: Once your treatment has concluded, rinse your hair with cold water to seal the cuticle. This will help trap in all the goodness — retaining that moisture you just spent 20 minutes to provide to your hair. Afterwards, style as desired!
A good starting point is to perform a moisturizing deep conditioning treatment every one to two weeks. Once you adjust your hair treatment regimen, try to include a monthly protein treatment, following the same steps as you would this deep conditioning treatment.
Like most things in life though, there is not ONE right way to deep condition your hair. You may opt to deep condition monthly with a hot oil treatment during the month, saving the deep condition for your BIG WASH DAY (clarifying cleanser, moisturizing cleanser, deep conditioner). It is so important to adjust all advice to what works for you. So don’t be afraid to mix it up and see what works best for your hair!
How often do you deep condition? Do you use heat? What products do you use and why? Let us know in the comments below!
Sandra Snell is a professional hairstylist and founder of Thermal Hair Care Inc.
