According to veteran celebrity hairstylist and Flawless by Gabrielle Union co-founder Larry Sims, deep conditioning offers a more intense treatment than a typical conditioner since its designed to rebuild and strengthen brittle hair that heat, chemicals, or stressors have damaged. This is especially crucial for individuals with curly hair, as its crucial to incorporate deep conditioning into wash day routines to deliver nourishment and preserve the integrity of their curls.
“Like all hair products, deep conditioners are best selected to target the specific needs of your hair type,” Sims begins. “Curly hair types thrive when ultra-moisturizing and protein-rich deep conditioners like the Flawless Repairing Deep Conditioning Masque are used within a wash day regimen.” This particular product stands out to him due to the formula’s combination of biotin, creatine, and rice oil complex that works to repair any existing damage while delivering hydration and the reduction of frizz.
When looking for a deep conditioner that would work best for curly hair patterns keep an eye out for ingredients like argan oil, coconut oil, and shea butter and avoid any containing alcohol or sulfates; as they’ll dry out your strands. Incorporating a deep conditioner in your wash day routine is quick, easy, and effective. “After using your favorite shampoo, apply your deep conditioner to damp hair. Make sure the product is fully saturated on your hair, leaving no curl behind,” says Sims. “Massage the deep conditioner into hair from root to ends using fingers, or consider using a wide-tooth comb or brush to ensure each strand is coated.”
For a quick shower routine, Sims recommends leaving the deep conditioner in the hair for 5 to 10 minutes or, for a more intense process, cover hair with a shower cap and sitting under a hooded dryer for extra saturation and nourishment to the curls. Next, rinse with cool water to seal in moisture before applying the next step in your styling routine.
Below, take a look at our picks for the best deep conditioners on the market based on our testing and thousands of glowing reviews across Sephora, Ulta, Dermstore, and more.
