Think about how great you feel after a spa day. Completely reinvigorated, right? Curls are the same way-they need to be treated to extra TLC every so often. A few extra minutes of pampering can work wonders for your hair's texture, helping to reset and re-define the curl pattern and counteract damage from styling or coloring. Ready to see for yourself? Here's everything you need to know about deep conditioning for softer, shinier, healthier curls.
Why do curls need deep conditioner?
You already know your curls help you stand out in a crowd. But did you know your hair is also different on a structural level?
Curly hair's corkscrew shape leaves its protective outer cuticle perpetually lifted-picture ruffled feathers. Moisture and nutrients escape through these cuticle openings, which can leave curls dry, dull, and brittle. That's why it's so important to replenish curly hair with regular treatments such as deep conditioners.
What types of treatments are best for curls?
Deep conditioners and masks fall into one of three categories, each with different benefits. To keep your curls in tip top shape, include each type of deep conditioner in your regular curl care regiment:
Protein Treatments
Try: Lightweight Protein Foam Treatment How often: 1-2 times per week What it does: Strengthens and repairs curls for added definition and elasticity. It's easy to add to your routine; just apply to wet hair in the shower, leave on for three-tfive minutes then rinse and follow with your favorite Ouidad conditioner.
Conditioning Mask Treatments
Try: Ultra-Nourishing Intense Hydrating Mask How often: 2 times per week What it does: Richer than a daily conditioner and able to penetrate more deeply thanks to its self-warming technology. This deep conditioning mask softens and moisturize curls from within. Its cushion-like coating of fatty acids helps to rebuild strands' protective outer layer to protect against future damage. Tip: For extra dry hair, deep conditioning masks can be used in place of your regular conditioner whenever you cleanse your curls.
Deep Conditioners
Try: Coil Infusion® Triple Treat Deep Conditioner How often: Anytime you cleanse your curls What it does: The tighter the curl, the more exposed the cuticle. Tightly coiled and kinky curls need more intense hydration from a deep conditioner such as this one, which is designed to infuse curls with maximum moisture-and seal it inside. Tip: Leave deep conditioner on for two-three minutes to allow conditioner to penetrate and reboot your curl pattern.
