How often you should use conditioner depends primarily on your hair type, hair length, and the type of conditioner you use:
- Rinse-out conditioner: Generally, use rinse-out conditioner every time you shampoo your hair, which for most people is a few times per week. If you have dry, coarse, curly, or color-treated hair, conditioning daily or every other day can be beneficial. For fine or oily hair, conditioning less frequently may help avoid weighing hair down
- Leave-in conditioner: Typically applied about once a week, but if your hair is curly, dry, or damaged, you might want to use it more often to maintain moisture and repair
- Deep conditioner: Use every month or two for very dry or damaged hair, as it provides intense hydration and repair when left on for 30 minutes or more
- Cleansing conditioner: Suitable for fine or oily hair, it can replace shampoo and conditioner and be used as often as you shampoo, often daily or every other day. However, it may not be ideal for dry, coarse, or curly hair types
- Hair length consideration: If you have short hair, conditioning about five times a week may suffice; for long hair, daily conditioning is often recommended to protect the ends, which are more prone to damage
In summary, the best rule is to condition every time you wash your hair, adjusting frequency based on your hair’s moisture needs and type. You can also condition on non-shampoo days if your hair feels dry or needs extra moisture, especially if it is thick, curly, or damaged. Avoid over-conditioning if your hair is fine or oily, as it may weigh it down
