Wondering why you should consider using a leave-in conditioner or if you need both a rinse-out and leave-in conditioner? We know you want to look as good as you feel, so a conditioner is a must. This blog covers everything you need to know about conditioning your hair and beard and which type of product is right for you.
Can’t I Just Use An All-in-One Shampoo And Conditioner?
We hear you! You are busy and you like to keep your grooming routine as fast and easy as possible. So, when you hear “all-in-one” it’s tempting. Unfortunately, all-in-one shampoos focus more on cleansing and less on conditioning. Without proper conditioning, your hair will rapidly become dry and damaged. If you keep your hair super short, this may not be an issue. If your hair is an inch or longer, you will begin to see and feel the damage.
So, use an all-in-one Hair, Beard and Body Wash and a dedicated rinse-out or leave-in conditioner.
Do You Need Both A Rinse-Out And A Leave-In?
Only if you want to use both. For example, you could use a rinse-out once a week or as-needed to deep condition and use a leave-in the rest of the week. To deep condition, leave your conditioner on for 10 to 20 minutes before rinsing it out.
Leave-ins are a proactive way to keep your hair healthy and they can also be used to repair and restore dry and damaged hair. If your hair is severely dry or damaged, you may need to trim it down to the new growth. Your hairstylist will advise you on your options.
Just be sure to condition your hair at least once per week, 2 to 7 days a week if you have curly or kinky hair.
Now let’s dive into how to use a leave-in product.
#1 As A Faster Alternative to Rinse-Out Conditioner
A leave-in conditioner keeps your morning routine as simple as possible. Shampoo and thoroughly rinse, then pat your hair dry and spray in your leave-in conditioner. A little bit goes a long way. Comb it through with your fingers, brush, or comb. This will condition, moisturize, and protect your hair. It also helps to keep your hair manageable, soft, and healthy.
For straight hair—feel free to apply daily or two or three times a week, even if you haven’t shampooed your hair.
For curly, kinky, dry, or damaged hair—use daily to nourish, hydrate, and protect. If you have mid-length to long hair, you can also use a leave-in to detangle.
Layer your styling products on afterward. Just remember, a little bit goes a long way.
#2 Conditioning Your Beard
In addition to your preference or need for beard oil or beard balm, you should also condition your beard. If you prefer groomed scruff or short facial hair, you may be able to get away without conditioning—unless you have curly or kinky hair.
Washing your face and beard every morning and evening can dry out your beard hair. By using a gentle face wash and conditioner layered under your oil or balm you can keep your beard soft, healthy, and manageable. Just make sure that the products you use are designed for both your face and beard. All Uncle Jimmy products are non-comedogenic—including our all-in-one Hair, Beard and Body Wash. It won’t strip your hair or clog your pores, and it is safe for sensitive skin.
#3 Moisturize Twists and Dreadlocks
Keep your twists and locs looking their best by spraying conditioner on 2 to 4 days per week. You might alternate with oil or apply both at the same time as advised by your hairstylist.
This will keep both your exposed hair and the hair within your loc or twist healthy. It will also help to tame frizz and flyaways.
#4 Co-Washing Curly Or Kinky Hair
If you have curly or kinky hair you should only use a shampoo every 7 to 10 days. This can be problematic if you are an athlete or someone who works out regularly—so co-wash instead.
Co-washing is the process of using conditioner to cleanse your hair and scalp instead of shampoo. Use just like shampoo, applying it once or twice to “wash”, then leaving it on after you pop out of the shower.
#5 Pre And Post Swimming
Both chlorine and salt water can damage your hair. A leave-in conditioner can minimize damage. If you have curly or kinky hair and you swim often, consider wearing a swim cap so that your hair doesn’t get wet.
- Before you hop in the water, wet your hair in the shower. When your hair is already wet, it will absorb less chlorine or salt water.
- Spray and comb through a leave-in conditioner that is formulated with a natural oil, such as sweet almond oil. Or apply a natural hair oil. This will provide an added protective layer.
- After you are done swimming shampoo or co-wash your hair and follow up with leave-in conditioner.
#6 Post Specialty Shampoo
If your dermatologist has prescribed a medicated shampoo for dandruff, fungus, psoriasis, hair loss, or inflammation—use as directed and condition daily. While medicated shampoos treat your scalp and hair condition, they can rapidly dry and damage your hair. Applying a daily leave-in conditioner before you shampoo and daily even when you don’t shampoo can protect your hair.
The same is true for over-the-counter medicated shampoos, such as dandruff shampoos. They will treat your flakes, but will strip, dry, and damage your hair in the process. On that same note, if an over-the-counter product isn’t resolving your flakes, schedule an appointment with your dermatologist as it may not be dandruff.
Looking For A New Skincare Regimen?
Uncle Jimmy has carefully formulated our collection to create simple and effective products that keep your hair, beard, and skin looking their best. Our products are formulated with natural ingredients including black seed oil, avocado, honey, and sweet almond oil. They are noncomedogenic and safe for all hair textures and types.
You can purchase our products individually or as part of a pre-designed daily grooming regimen.
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