Conditioners vs Deep Conditioning Masks - What's The Difference?

A regular hair conditioner is a staple in most people's hair care routines. 

It's a product designed to be used after shampooing to restore moisture, soften the hair, and make it more manageable. 

Here's how it works:

1. Moisture Restoration: Conditioners contain ingredients like glycerin and oil extracts that fuel your hair with moisture. This helps prevent dryness and frizz.

2. Detangling: They also contain conditioning agents  that provide manageability and allow for easy detangling. Hence why we also advocate detangling when your hair is saturated in conditioner. This reduces breakages and damage. 

3. Sealing the Cuticles: Conditioners often work by sealing the hair cuticles, which can get raised during shampooing. Creating a smoother and shinier appearance.

On the other hand, a deep conditioning mask (sometimes referred to as a hair mask or treatment) is a more intensive and targeted product. 

It's not meant for everyday use but should be used periodically for a deep dose of nourishment. 

Here's how it differs:

1. Intensive Nourishment: Deep conditioning masks contain higher concentrations of conditioning agents, vitamins, and proteins. They penetrate deeper into the hair shaft to repair damage and provide intense hydration.

2. Repair and Strengthen: These masks are especially useful for repairing damaged hair caused by factors like heat styling, chemical treatments, or environmental stressors. Ingredients like hydrolysed wheat protein helps retain that moisture, giving your hair a thicker appearance. 

3. Occasional Use: Unlike regular conditioners, deep conditioning masks are not meant for daily use. Using them once a week or as needed is typically sufficient to maintain healthy hair.

The primary difference between a hair conditioner and a deep conditioning mask lies in their intensity and purpose. Conditioners are for daily use, while deep conditioning masks provide a more potent treatment. 

Same as using a daily face moisturiser alongside a bi-weekly face mask. You'd only use the face mask when your skin is crying out for a hydration hit. 

Both are essential to healthy hair. If you have relatively healthy hair and want to maintain its condition, a regular conditioner is likely enough. However, if your hair is damaged, dry, or prone to frizz, a deep conditioning mask will provide your hair with the moisture is's craving. 

When hair is well-hydrated and in good health, it establishes a more robust base for shielding against breakage and harm. This is advantageous for every individual's hair.

For all hair types, discover more about Merwave's Deep Conditioning Mask here.

If you have grey, silver or blonde hair, then a Purple Deep Conditioning Mask is for you. Find out more here.

If you simply need a conditioner, then find out more about Merwave's Conditioner here