How to care for curls properly: conditioner or hair mask?
To keep your curls healthy and defined, a coordinated hair care routine is important. It consists of three steps: washing, conditioning and styling . When it comes to care, the question arises: conditioner or hair mask?
Curly hair tends to be dry because the natural scalp oils don't reach the ends as easily. That's why curls need a lot of moisture, nutrients and proteins. But what's better: a quick conditioner or an intensive hair mask? Here you can find out the differences and which treatment suits your hair type.
Conditioner: The quick solution for smooth curls
What makes a conditioner?
A conditioner provides quick, superficial care and makes it easier to detangle your hair. Its main advantages:
✔ Detangles and makes combing easier
✔ Moisturizes and softens hair
✔ Reduces frizz
A conditioner is suitable for all hair types because it does not weigh down the hair. It is also ideal if you are short on time because it only needs to be applied for a short time.
How do you choose the best conditioner for your curls?
The right conditioner depends on your hair type and needs. Here are three top products:
1. Les Secrets de Loly – Cream Conditioner
Good for fine and wavy hair.
✓ Gentle detangling without weighing down
✓ Strengthens and supports the hair fiber
✓ Makes hair light and smooth
2. Desert Essence – Nourishing Coconut Conditioner
Good for curly hair.
✓ Nourishes dry hair
✓ Detangles curly hair particularly gently
✓ Gives hair suppleness and shine
3. SheaMoisture – Coconut & Hibiscus Cur & Shine Conditioner
Good for thick curly and afro hair
✓ Intensively hydrates hair, resulting in softer and shinier curls
✓ Fights frizz and promotes defined, shiny curls
✓ Contains nourishing ingredients such as coconut oil, hibiscus and shea butter that strengthen and nourish the hair
How do you use a conditioner correctly?
- After shampooing, squeeze excess water out of your hair.
- Apply conditioner to the lengths and ends.
- Leave on for 5-10 minutes (under a hood for greater effectiveness).
- Gently detangle with a wide-toothed comb or detangling brush.
- Rinse with water.
Co-Wash: A gentle alternative to shampoo
When co-washing, you wash your hair only with conditioner instead of shampoo. This method is particularly suitable for:
- Athletes who have to wash their hair often
- People with dry scalp or sensitive hair
- Curly-headed people who don't want to shampoo their hair too often
This is how co-washing works:
- Moisten hair with plenty of water.
- Apply conditioner generously to hair and scalp.
- Clean the scalp with your fingers or a massage brush.
- Rinse well to remove all product residue.
Recommended co-wash product:
- Curly Girl Movement – Cleansing Co-Wash: Gently cleanses, removes dirt and nourishes the hair at the same time.
Hair masks: intensive care for stressed curls
Why use a hair mask?
Hair masks penetrate deeper into the hair structure than conditioners and provide long-lasting care. They should be used once a week to ensure the curls are optimally cared for.
Moisturizing masks for dry curls
Curls need moisture to stay elastic and healthy. These masks will help:
1. Les Secrets de Loly – Repair time hydrating mask
✓ Revitalizes dry and brittle curls
✓ Prepares hair for better definition
✓ Intensively nourishes and strengthens the hair structure
✓ Balanced combination of moisture and nutrients
2. Sante – 3 min moisturizing mask
✓ For all hair types
✓ Strengthens & ensures combability
✓ With anti-frizz effect
Nourishing masks against hair breakage and split ends
These masks contain valuable oils and butters to strengthen brittle curls:
1. Waam – Organic Nourishing Hair Mask
✓ Shea butter, coconut oil and aloe vera for intensive care
✓ Perfect for curls that need moisture and nutrients
2. Belle & Bio – Nourishing Hair Mask
✓ Jojoba, castor and avocado oil for shiny curls
✓ Contains herbal extracts for more elasticity
Protein masks to strengthen damaged hair
If your hair is brittle or chemically treated, you need proteins to rebuild the hair structure.
1. SheaMoisture - Jamaican black castor oil & strengthen restore Hair Masque
✓ Strengthens and repairs damaged hair
✓ Provides intensive moisture and reduces hair breakage
✓ Promotes healthy shine and elasticity
2. Gyada Cosmetics – Spirulina Hair Mask
✓ Spirulina and ginseng for strong, healthy hair
✓ Protects against environmental damage and UV rays
Conclusion: Conditioner or hair mask?
Both products have their merits:
✔ Use a conditioner when you need quick care and your hair is easy to detangle.
✔ Use a hair mask if your curls are particularly dry, damaged or stressed.
The right combination of regular moisturizing (conditioner) and weekly deep care (mask) ensures healthy, defined curls!
