I was losing about 50 to 100 hairs a day because of my regular oil applications. Then, I came across some information suggesting that frequent oiling can be harmful to the scalp.
What is better for a damaged hair, a conditioner or hair oil?
Both conditioner and hair oil can benefit damaged hair, but their effectiveness depends on the type and extent of damage as well as your hair care routine. Here's a breakdown of their roles to help you decide:
Conditioner: Best for Daily Moisture and Detangling
- Purpose: Conditioner is designed to restore moisture, improve manageability, and smooth the hair cuticle after washing.
-
Benefits:
- Hydrates and softens the outer layer of the hair shaft.
- Reduces tangling, making hair easier to comb and style.
- Provides immediate smoothness and shine for a manageable look.
- Lightweight and easy to rinse, ideal for everyday use.
-
Best For:
- Mild to moderate damage from chemical treatments or heat styling.
- People looking for a quick, easy fix after shampooing.
-
Limitations:
- Doesn't penetrate deeply into the hair shaft for long-term repairing.
Hair Oil: Best for Deep Nourishment and Repair
- Purpose: Hair oils penetrate deeper into the hair shaft, providing long-lasting nourishment and repair.
-
Benefits:
- Helps repair damage on a deeper level by replenishing natural lipids and nutrients.
- Locks in moisture and prevents further dehydration.
- Protects hair from external aggressors, such as heat and UV damage.
- Adds a healthy, glossy finish and works well for extremely dry or frizzy hair.
-
Best For:
- Severely damaged, dry, or brittle hair.
- Long-term hair repair and hydration beyond just the hair surface.
-
Limitations:
- Can feel heavy or greasy if used in excess or on oily hair types.
- Requires more time to absorb compared to conditioners.
Which is Better for Damaged Hair?
- For Mild Damage: If your hair is slightly damaged and you need daily ease in styling and softness, a conditioner is likely sufficient.
- For Severe Damage: If your hair is very dry, brittle, or extensively damaged, hair oil is the better choice due to its deep-penetrating repair properties.
-
Combined Routine: Often, the best approach is to use both products:
- A conditioner for daily hydration and surface-level care.
- A weekly or bi-weekly hair oil treatment for deeper repair and strengthening.
Conclusion
Conditioners and hair oils each serve different purposes in hair care. For the best results, assess your hair's specific needs and use them in tandem to provide both immediate softness and long-term repair.
