10 Best Conditioners for Damaged Hair in 2022 (Dermatologist-Reviewed)
Hair can become damaged from a variety of reasons like stress, heat exposure, or color treatments. This can result in hair that is brittle, dull, thinning, or falling out. A conditioner can help remedy those issues by restoring necessary moisture, strength, and shine back to your hair. Depending on your hair type and the category of damage, you might choose a leave-in conditioner or one that will deliver deep conditioning. No matter your needs, there is a perfect conditioner to help repair your damaged hair.
We searched through a variety of products and reviews to create a list of 10 of our favorite conditioners for damaged hair. Our favorite is Artnaturals Argan Oil Leave-In Conditioner because it provides consistent moisture to dry, brittle hair throughout the day. And it is lightweight, so it works for many different types of hair. We also created a buying guide, with oversight from a dermatologist, that further details what you should look for when selecting a conditioner.
Quick List - Top Conditioners For Damaged Hair
Dr. Levy is a board certified dermatologist practicing in NYC and Westport, Connecticut. She has expertise in treating inflammatory skin conditions like acne, rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis. She has an interest in skincare and takes a personalized approach to all of her patients.
mybest US' editing team consists of experienced members who have backgrounds in writing, editing, translation, and more. We are dedicated to researching what makes a product or service the best to users in the US in order to create top-quality articles. From skincare, to kitchen appliances, and to DIY supplies, our mission is to find the best ones for you.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
- Dr. Levy's Recommended Conditioners for Damaged Hair
- Decide Between a Conditioner You Rinse or Leave In
- Tips for Repairing Damaged Hair
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What's the best way to apply hair conditioner?
- Is hair conditioner necessary?
- Get Shiny and Voluminous Hair With These Products
- Buying Guide Reviewed by Board Certified Dermatologist Dr. Lauren Levy
How to Choose Conditioners For Damaged Hair
When selecting a conditioner for damaged hair, it is important to consider the ingredients and how they will remedy your damaged hair. It is also important to understand what works best for your hair type. And, you want to pick a conditioner that fits into your hair care routine.
Look for Ingredients That Address Your Hair Concerns
If your hair is brittle or thinning, the last thing you want is for it to break even more. To prevent this, look for ingredients that will remedy your specific type of hair damage. Whether you need to hydrate your dry hair or strengthen your brittle hair, choose ingredients that will serve the purpose of reviving damaged hair.
Oils and Butters Add Moisture to Dry Hair
Our hair has naturally-occurring oils that provide moisture and protect the strands by reducing friction. Dry hair and scalp can be lacking the necessary oils, which can lead to other issues like psoriasis or eczema.
Conditioners that have oils containing saturated fats, like coconut, argan or jojoba oil, are best suited for delivering moisture deep into the hair. Coconut oil delivers moisturizing effects to the hair and scalp, and it is also protein-rich. Argan oil will provide moisture, and it is rich in vitamin E, which helps reduce the damage the sun can cause to your hair.
Another common ingredient for added moisture are plant butters, like shea butter, cocoa butter, or mango butter. They operate similarly to oils in that they help replenish moisture to the hair and scalp. But they often have longer chains of saturated fatty acids, meaning it is easier for them to enter the hair shaft. Butters might be preferable for those with extremely dry hair and scalp.
Strengthen Brittle Hair With Proteins Like Keratin
Proteins can be found in conditioners in many forms, such as hydrolyzed collagen, keratin, or amino acids. These ingredients are recommended for individuals struggling with brittle hair, split ends, or breakage, because they can help restore proteins lost when hair is damaged.
When introduced to the hair via a conditioner, proteins work to strengthen the cuticle, which helps protect the entire strand of hair while it grows. Proteins also improve the elasticity of the hair, which means it will be less prone to breakage.
Biotin, or vitamin B7, can help stimulate keratin production when used in a conditioner. It also helps strengthen the hair strand and prevent hair from thinning. Proteins can be very beneficial to damaged hair, but their use becomes less necessary as hair begins to heal. Overuse of products with proteins can cause dryness, so pay close attention to the instructions.
For those with dry or brittle hair, using a conditioner with keratin, collagen or biotin can be quite helpful. These proteins are part of the natural hair shaft and follicle and are what give hair shine and thickness. Additionally, these ingredients can prevent hair breakage as well since the hair shaft and cuticle become stronger.
Avoid Potentially Harmful and Irritating Ingredients
Ingredients like sodium lauryl sulfate and sodium laureth sulfate can aggravate the scalp and dry out your hair shaft, leading to split ends and frizzy hair. While you might have to dig through ingredient lists to figure out if a conditioner has these ingredients or not, many that are free from them will clearly state it on the labels or in their packaging.
Those with sensitive skin, eczema, or a history of dermatitis should avoid products with sulfates, parabens, and added fragrance. These additives can exacerbate these conditions but also cause a dry and irritated scalp, which can hinder hair health and growth. Less is more when looking at an ingredient list of products.
Ensure That the Formula Suits Your Hair Type
Those with oily and greasy hair should stay away from conditioners with any oils or plant butters. Too much oil on your scalp can lead to issues like seborrheic dermatitis and cause dandruff. Instead, focus on cleansing with shampoo and use conditioner with proteins to strengthen the hair.
Those with dry and brittle hair from excess heat exposure or color treatments will want a conditioner that will replenish moisture and protect the hair. Color-safe conditioners are typically rich in moisturizing ingredients like argan oil or coconut oil. They will also be free of ingredients like parabens or sulfates that can strip dye and fade color faster.
Individuals with hair that curls or spirals will want a conditioner that deeply hydrates and controls frizz. Curly hair is more prone to becoming dry, which can cause damage. Look for a conditioner with ingredients like shea butter or cocoa butter that will replenish lost moisture. They will also help to control frizz, and they are rich in vitamins to protect and strengthen the hair.
If you have thin or fine hair, look for a conditioner with biotin or proteins to help strengthen the hair and volumize. Avoid ingredients like silicone and harsh ingredients like parabens; these can weigh down the hair and make it appear thin and dull.
10 Best Conditioners For Damaged Hair Ranking
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Artnaturals Argan Oil Leave-In Conditioner | | Best for Restoring Lost Moisture | |
2 | KMS Moist Repair Conditioner | | Best for Gentle Repair | |
3 | L'Oreal Paris | | Best for Growing Long, Healthy Hair | |
4 | SheaMoisuture | | Best for Curly and Wavy Hair | |
5 | L’Oréal Paris Elvive Total Repair 5 Protein Recharge | | Best Conditioner With Repairing Proteins | |
6 | It's a 10 | | Best for Building Stronger Hair | |
7 | OUAI | | Best for Repairing Damage to Fine or Oily Hair | |
8 | Milk_Shake | | Best for Maintaining Soft Hair | |
9 | Redken | | Best for Color-Treated Hair | |
10 | Purad'or Hair Thinning Therapy Conditioner | | Best Conditioner for Thinning Hair |
ArtnaturalsArgan Oil Leave-In Conditioner
Best for Restoring Lost Moisture
- Keeps hair moisturized throughout the day
- Panthenol aids in strengthening hair
- Helps repair damage from excess heat
- Vegan
Cons:
- Some reviews point out the scent is perfumey
- Contains fragrance and alcohol
This luxurious leave-in conditioner features a wide range of botanical ingredients that work together to hydrate, strengthen, and add shine to hair. The formula also helps hair recover from damage resulting from heat or color treatments. It’s light enough for all hair types and you can add more if your hair needs it.
A couple of buyers assert the scent is too perfumey and overwhelming. On the other hand, reviewers appreciate how lightweight this product feels in their hair. They also say it leaves their hair feeling softer, and it helps to repair their split ends and brittle hair.
Best for Gentle Repair
Pros:
- Helps smooth and soften hair
- Eliminates tangles and breakage
- Fights against frizz
Cons:
- A few buyers say the scent is overpowering
- Contains fragrance and mineral oil
This salon-quality conditioner moisturizes and repairs, strengthening your hair and preventing breakage. It works extremely well as a detangler too. This conditioner is good for all hair types, from dry and textured to thin and straight. And it is free from sulfates, parabens, and alcohol, so it will be gentle on your hair and scalp.
Some reviewers claim the scent is too strong and flowery. On the other hand, buyers love how this product allows their hair to look soft and shiny. Many also comment on how the conditioner is great for eliminating their tangled hair.
Best for Growing Long, Healthy Hair
- Protein-rich formula strengthens hair
- Helps fight split ends
- Designed for those trying to grow their hair out
- Can follow up with leave-in treatment from the same line for deeper conditioning
- Some reviewers say the scent is too strong
- Contains fragrance and alcohol
This product helps nourish and seal your split ends, and less breakage means fewer trips to the salon for a haircut. That makes this conditioner perfect for those wanting to grow their hair. With castor oil and a combination of proteins, this conditioner will deliver consistent moisture while building stronger hair.
A few buyers express that the scent is too strong and noticeable. However, reviewers appreciate the conditioner for eliminating tangles and split ends. Many were able to grow their hair long while keeping it healthy.
Best for Curly and Wavy Hair
Pros:
- Reduces the amount of frizz and split ends
- Helps to restore moisture to hair
- Great for hair damaged by heat
Cons:
- Some buyers say the scent is unpleasant
- Contains fragrance and alcohol
This conditioner is versatile. The combination of moisturizers and proteins makes it perfect for curly and wavy hair, but it also works great for color-treated or heat-damaged hair. Shea butter and coconut oil lock in moisture while controlling frizz. Keratin and other proteins strengthen hair and reduce breakage.
A few reviews complain about it being hard to rinse out. On the other hand, many buyers love this shampoo because it eliminates their tangles and frizz. The moisturizing formula leaves their hair feeling softer.
L’Oréal Paris Elvive Total Repair 5 Protein Recharge
Best Conditioner With Repairing Proteins
- Ceramides help smooth and soften hair
- Protein and amino acid formula for stronger hair
- Controls breakage and frizz
- Can follow up with leave-in treatment from the same line for deeper conditioning
Cons:
- Some reviewers claim it left a residue
- Contains fragrance
This conditioner is great for dry hair or hair damaged by heat or color treatments. It consists of a blend of proteins and amino acids to strengthen hair and reduce the number of split ends. It also works to detangle hair and help eliminate further damage.
A handful of buyers assert the conditioner left a greasy residue after use. But, reviewers love how this product controls frizz and leaves their hair feeling soft. Many with damage from color treatments say the conditioner helps maintain color and healthy hair.
Best for Building Stronger Hair
Pros:
- Smooths and softens dry hair
- Protein blend strengthens hair
- Protects hair from heat damage
Cons:
- Some reviewers say the product makes oily hair more greasy
- Contains alcohol
This deep conditioner is excellent for restoring moisture and strength to dry and brittle hair. Whether the damage is from excess heat or color treatments, letting this deep conditioner work in your hair for up to seven minutes will leave it smoother and stronger. Keratin, other proteins, and amino acids help restore brittle hair.
A few buyers claim the product made their hair and scalp feel greasy; it might be too heavy for oily hair. However, positive reviews praise this conditioner for repairing damage to their hair sustained from repeated color treatments and heat exposure. It helped repair their split ends and breakage, leading to healthier-looking hair.
Best for Repairing Damage to Fine or Oily Hair
Pros:
- Lightweight formula
- Adds volume and moisture without adding weight
- Builds stronger hair
Cons:
- Some reviews say the scent is strong
- Contains fragrance and alcohol
This conditioner is perfect for fine or oily hair because it repairs, moisturizes and volumizes without weighing hair down. Biotin and keratin strengthen hair, and chia seed oil moisturizes and adds volume. And, this formula is color-safe for those with color-treated hair.
A few buyers complain about the scent being overpowering. However, reviewers love that this conditioner makes their hair feel softer and appear fuller. Those with oily hair have no issues with the conditioner adding weight, even with regular use.
Best for Maintaining Soft Hair
Pros:
- Papaya extract provides moisture and antioxidants
- Hyaluronic acid softens and hydrates
- Protein blend builds stronger hair
Cons:
- Some buyers say the product left a residue
- Contains alcohol
With hyaluronic acid and plant extracts, this product delivers intense moisture while allowing hair to stay soft and shiny. Milk proteins also strengthen hair and fight breakage, while papaya provides vitamins and antioxidants, as well as a tropical scent.
A couple of reviewers complain the conditioner left a bit of residue after use. But, buyers love how this product leaves their hair feeling soft and smooth. Many with color treatments also say it helps to preserve the color and health of their hair.
Best for Color-Treated Hair
Pros:
- Protein-rich formula builds stronger hair
- Cranberry oil adds intensity to any color
- Helps lock in color and prevent it from fading
Cons:
- Some buyers claim it made their hair greasy
- Contains fragrance and alcohol
This shampoo from Redken uses cranberry oil to keep your hair color vibrant while repairing any damage caused by color treatments. A formula with ceramides, and proteins keeps hair soft and strong, and the proper pH balance seals the hair strand and prevents color from fading.
A handful of reviewers say this conditioner left their hair feeling greasy. However, buyers appreciate that this product helps retain hair colors that are difficult to maintain, like red or purple. They also report that it keeps their hair feeling soft and reduces the number of split ends.
Purad'orHair Thinning Therapy Conditioner
Best Conditioner for Thinning Hair
- Helps repair breakage
- Stimulates hair growth at the scalp
- Adds moisture and strength to the hair
Cons:
- Some reviews say the product can take a long time to show results
- Contains alcohol
This conditioner can help reduce thinning and hair fall by strengthening, moisturizing, and volumizing. It clarifies and rinses out completely clean, so you can use it down to your scalp, allowing your follicles to absorb the stimulating ingredients like biotin and argan oil.
Some reviewers said the conditioner didn't produce good results for them, and others reported itching on their scalp. However, buyers love the pleasant scent and herbal formula. Those who used it for several months said they noticed thicker and more voluminous hair that was smooth and shiny.
Dr. Levy's Recommended Conditioners for Damaged Hair
I personally use Virtue Lab's Recovery Conditioner. This product provides hydration and keratins to promote healthy hair and growth. It is suitable for all hair types but especially for those with dry, brittle, or damaged hair. It will not weigh down the hair if used daily.
I also recommend SEEN conditioner often, especially for those with acne-prone skin. The conditioner does not clog pores on the face or back, so it's great for those that struggle with acne. It also comes in a deep conditioner formulation for drier hair, as well as a fragrance-free formulation for those with sensitive skin.
Decide Between a Conditioner You Rinse or Leave In
A standard conditioner can be used several times a week after each shampooing. It helps replace moisture lost by the cleansers in shampoo. Regular conditioner should be applied to the ends of the hair, and is generally safe to use for all hair types. Stick to a standard conditioner if you have oily or fine hair and don't want to overwhelm it with excess product.
Leave-in conditioners are created light and thin to not weigh the hair down. They can continue to moisturize, protect hair, and control frizz in between washes. Opt for leave-in conditioners if you have unmanageable hair or expose it to heat sources frequently.
Deep conditioners should be used sparingly; about once a week. They are left in the hair for about 15 to 20 minutes and then rinsed. The aim of deep conditioners is to supply intense hydration and protein to the hair. Use a deep conditioner if you struggle with dry hair, frizz, or damage from color treatments.
Dry hair often needs a thick conditioner used several times a week and benefits from leaving on the conditioner like a mask for several minutes. This allows the product to penetrate the shaft and helps with frayed or split ends and broken hairs. Those with oily or fine hair can condition less frequently to avoid products weighing down the hair.
Tips for Repairing Damaged Hair
One important way to repair damaged hair is to shampoo and condition your hair regularly. The advice in our buying guide explains how often you should wash with each product, but typically, it is a few times a week. Shampoo should fortify the health of your scalp, which will encourage the growth of healthy hair. And a conditioner will target the hair you already have, restoring moisture and strength.
It is also important to get regular haircuts. Split ends can lead to dry and brittle hair. Schedule a haircut about every four to seven weeks. This will give you time to consult a salon professional about the state of your hair and scalp. Split ends can also be kept in check with a strengthening conditioner until your next appointment.
Finally, consider how much time you spend in the sun. Excessive sun exposure can cause your hair to become dry and brittle. It can also alter the color of your hair. Protect your hair with products that shield it from the sun's harmful rays.
A healthy scalp is the key to healthy hair. Make sure when using shampoo, you target the scalp area. Conditioner does not need to be applied in great amounts on the scalp but should focus more on the length of the hair. If you don't wash your hair frequently and use lots of styling products, a scalp exfoliator is a great way to remove excess build-up.
Frequently Asked Questions
In addition to reviewing and commenting on our buying guide, Dr. Levy also took the time to answer some commonly asked questions about conditioners.
What's the best way to apply hair conditioner?
"You do not have to use a shampoo prior to using a conditioner," Dr. Levy explains. "You may just want to use a conditioner a few times a week without a shampoo. Apply most of the conditioner from the ears to the bottom of the hair with less product on the scalp. You should leave the conditioner on for at least one to two minutes.
For brittle or dry hair, you can leave the conditioner on for several minutes, and this can serve as a hair mask. Make sure you rinse out all of the product. Those with oily hair may only need to use conditioner one to three times a week, while those with dry or brittle hair can use daily."
Is hair conditioner necessary?
Dr. Levy says, "Hair conditioner should be use by everyone at least once a week. The conditioner nurtures the hair shaft and cuticle and can lead to shiny and healthier-appearing hair. Conditioning the hair shaft can also lead to hair that is more likely to grow.
So, if you are looking to increase hair length and growth, adding a conditioner to your routine is necessary. Anyone with dry hair should not skip conditioning with every hair wash."
Get Shiny and Voluminous Hair With These Products
These articles feature products that encourage beautifully healthy hair and scalp. Take a look to gather inspiration when planning your hair care routine.
Buying Guide Reviewed by Board Certified Dermatologist Dr. Lauren Levy
This expert reviewed the contents of the buying guide for accuracy and provided factual corrections when necessary, as well as extra tips and advice. They did not participate in the product selection process, nor are they affiliated with any of our choices unless explicitly stated so.
Top 5 Conditioners For Damaged Hair
No. 1: Artnaturals｜Argan Oil Leave-In Conditioner
No. 2: KMS｜Moist Repair Conditioner
No. 3: L'Oreal Paris｜
No. 4: SheaMoisuture｜
No. 5: L’Oréal Paris ｜Elvive Total Repair 5 Protein Recharge
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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