What You Need To Know About Leave-In Conditioner

The Pros Believe In Them

According to Kérastase expert and owner of Fowler35 Darren Fowler, leave-in conditioners are an important step in any hair routine. “They’re time saving, because they add some extra conditioning at the same time as protecting your hair from heat If you have a leave-in conditioner prescribed to you, one personalised for your specific hair type, they can often target specific needs, too, like frizz-control, nourishment or repair.” Plus, according to celebrity hair stylist Pete Burkill, they work differently to normal conditioner. “When we rinse out standard conditioner it stops working. A leave-in one offers longer-term hydration and care – often until the next shampoo.”

There Are Different Kinds 

“Most leave-in treatments come in a cream texture, but you can find some that come as sprays.” explains Darren. “Depending on your specific hair concern, results can vary. The important thing is to use a leave-in conditioner that’s right for your hair type. Your hairdresser will be able to recommend the right one. My advice is to focus on using it on the mid lengths and ends, so the root is not overloaded with product.”

They’re Great For Curly & Coloured Hair 

“Anyone with curly or textured hair should be using a leave-in conditioner for some much-needed moisture,” says Darren. “Kérastase Curl Manifesto Crème De Jour Fondamentale is good for any curly or coily hair types. Bleached or chemically treated hair would also benefit from using a leave-in or protector in conjunction with a repairing conditioner. Also, anyone who is heat styling their hair needs to be using a protecting leave-in conditioner – Shu Uemura Art of Hair Tsuki Shape Spray is reactivated with heat, so your hair is always protected when you heat style. It’s ideal for using when you want a certain style to stay in place for longer.”

There’s A Specific Way To Apply One

Darren recommends applying a leave-in formula to your hands like a hand cream before applying it to the back of your hair – where it’s thickest – then up into the sides, the crown and finally into the top, so the product is evenly distributed. “If you’ve applied too much, use a towel to absorb any excess – in extreme cases dampen the hair slightly and again, remove using the towel,” he says. As for Pete, his top tip is to shampoo and condition hair as normal, towel dry the hair by patting, not rubbing, and then apply a leave-in conditioner before you comb or de-tangle the hair. “You’ll find it can be a great detangling aid,” he adds.

Cult Classics Do Exist

“A classic leave-in conditioner is Kérastase Resistance Ciment Thermique – it’s perfect for damaged hair as it rebuilds hair from the inside out,” says Darren. “I also use Netsu Design by Shu Uemura Art of Hair which is a great all-rounder – plus, it reduces breakage and damage for a more flawless finish. That said, always get a recommendation from your hairdresser as hair needs change quite regularly – you don’t want to overload it with the wrong ingredients.” Pete has his own personal favourite, too: “The Sachajuan Leave In Conditioner suits everyone. It uses what the brand calls ‘ocean silk technology’ which gives great body and super shine, plus it helps to keep your hair and scalp healthy. Specifically, it’s designed with thinner hair types in mind, but stylists sometimes use it ahead of cutting to give hair extra slip and shine.”

Interested? Here are some of our favourite leave-in conditioners…