Like a well-cared-for house plant, hair flourishes when we take care of it and consistently provide it with beneficial nutrients. One easy way to do that is by using a deep conditioner, a hair mask that nourishes and strengthens your strands to repair breakage and prevent any future damage. After all, healthy hair is well-kept hair.
No matter the texture of your locks, everyone should regularly incorporate a conditioning treatment into their wash routine. You just have to make sure to use one uniquely suited to your hair type and specific concerns so your hair gets the proper level of moisture. “The deep conditioner that you choose should be based on the density of your hair (how thick or fine it is),” explains hairstylist Mike Martinez, who works at New York City salon Cutler. “This plays more of a role in deciding any products than the texture alone.” For those with finer hair, opt for formulas with lighter oils. If you have curly or thick hair, however, the more moisture a deep conditioner carries, the better.
Whether your hair is in need of some love or you simply want to make sure your precious locks stay as healthy as possible, check out these eight best deep conditioners that will have your mane looking its best.
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8 Deep Conditioners
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For Straight Hair
Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Mask, $36 at Sephora
This moisturizing deep conditioner from Briogeo is one of those rare formulas that works equally as well on all textures to restore vibrancy and luster to dry, dull hair in just five minutes. It’s also formulated with a unique blend of ingredients that protects your hair from any future damage.
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For Straight Hair
Eleni & Chris BoostaMin Instant Hair Treatment, $8 at Eleni & Chris
An enriching deep conditioner suitable for all hair types that revives damaged hair in an instant and leaves it looking shiny and full of life.
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For Wavy Hair
L'Oréal Paris Elvive Total Repair 5 Damage-Erasing Balm, $5.99 at Target
While no single product can completely reverse damage from coloring and styling tools, this intensive treatment gets pretty close. The impressive formula is said to repair five common signs of hair damage, from split ends to brittleness to roughness to dullness and dehydration in just one use.
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For Wavy Hair
Amika Soulfood Nourishing Mask, $28 at Sephora
Feed your dehydrated hair with this formula made with a nourishing mix of vitamins. Use it consistently to ensure your mane is in tip-top shape and luxuriously soft.
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For Curly Hair
Aussie 3 Minute Miracle Smooth Deep Conditioner, $2.97 at Target
Leave this moisture-rich and widely inexpensive cream on your hair for a mere three minutes and voilà — you’re left with luminous, nourished curls with nary a frazzled lock or dry patch in sight.
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For Curly Hair
Carol’s Daughter Almond Milk Daily Damage Repair Ultra-Nourishing Hair Mask, $9.99 at Target
This sweet-scented formula (like a delectable and inviting cookie) is as great smelling as it is excellent at reviving damaged hair. If you’ve been overdoing it on the heat styling, reach for this deep conditioner packed with rich oils to bring your mane back to life.
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For Coily Hair
Mielle Babassu & Mint Deep Conditioner, $14.99 at Mielle
Tightly coiled hair needs a lot of moisture to remain strong and healthy and this organic option from Mielle is full of it. This intense deep conditioner has a high level of fatty acids and oils to improve scalp health and quench dehydrated hair.
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For Coily Hair
The Mane Choice Ancient Egyptian Anti-Breakage & Repair Antidote Hair Mask, $16.99 at Sally Beauty
Hair looking a bit lackluster? Then add this deep conditioner to your stash, stat. It’s incredibly moisturizing and will not only have your hair feeling pillow soft, it will also look shiny and lively after one use.
