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Curly and curly hair tends to lean towards the dry, dull and rough ends of natural hair. That’s why you need to take good care of these coils. In other words: don’t give up on air conditioning, curly-haired guys!
Using a conditioner prevents hair from becoming too dry and fortifies the cuticle to prevent damage and hair breakage. Conditioner also provides a protective coating to the outer layers of the hair shaft to give the hair sheen and a thicker appearance. It is especially important to apply if after shampooing (when hair, like skin, is prone to dryness),
board-certified dermatologist Dr. Corey L. Hartman.
Best Conditioner for Men’s Curly Hair: Buyer’s Guide
Hair conditioning is an important step in the hair care process, but in my practice I often see that it is neglected by the clients. Although conditioners can completely change the way your hair looks. The only challenge is to find the right conditioner for your specific needs. We’ll give you some recommendations based on the words of hair care experts in popular online beauty and style publications.
To choose a conditioner, it is also important to determine the type of curls. Typically, curly hair requires heavier products because curls are more flexible and natural oils don’t penetrate the hair shaft as easily. When the curve is loose, the oil can slide down again.
Shampoo and conditioner are the building blocks of a hair care regimen, and for those with curly hair, they deserve to be chosen wisely. Regardless of your hair type, avoid anything that strips away moisture. Make sure your product is sulfate free. They open and close the strands to help clean them, but constant use can damage curly hair. Most types of curly hair conditioners are usually sulfate free.
If you choose a conditioner, look for one that is oil-enriched. Natural oils help keep your skin healthy for a long time. Also a good sign is the presence of wet material and the absence of silicone that can dry out.
Tips and Tricks
How to use conditioner
Conditioner is usually applied after shampoo. After washing the shampoo out of your hair, apply some conditioner evenly throughout your hair strands. Focus on putting more on the tips of your hair or other areas that are especially dry. Avoid applying it on your scalp unless you have dry skin as it could make that area oilier. After a few minutes, simply rinse the conditioner out completely. Some conditioners can be left in your hair to give it a full moisturizing treatment.
Conditioner for Colored Hair
Having dyed curly hair can be tough since you need to be extra careful with the products you use. If this applies to you, it is best if you look for a conditioner that does not contain any sulfate or parabens. Try to find one with mostly natural ingredients.
Sensitive Skin
If you have sensitive skin, do not get a conditioner with a powerful fragrance. The fragrance may irritate your scalp. There might even be a possibility of an allergic reaction.
What Are The Best Conditioners for Men’s Curly Hair on the Market?
We have compiled a list of Top Six Conditioners that men with curly hair can use. Here is a definitive guide that will outline the performance, pros, and cons of each of these products. This should help you find the best conditioner for you.
1. Baxter of California Daily Fortifying Conditioner for Men — Amazon’s Choice
Baxter of California Men's Daily Fortifying Conditioner for All Hair Types, Moisturizes and Detangles, Fresh Mint Scent, 16 oz
- Moisturizes and leaves hair shiny and smooth
- Invigorating Mint Sensation
- All Hair Types
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
The Baxter of California Daily Fortifying Conditioner for Men (official website) comes in a blue dispensing bottle that contains 16 fluid ounces of product. Some of the ingredients listed include wheat protein, coconut extract, vitamin E, and mint. These are all great ingredients for hair care that will smoothen your curly locks. This conditioner also has a very nice mint scent.
PERFORMANCE
This conditioner for men’s curly hair should be used right after shampooing your hair. After you leave it in for a couple of minutes and rinse it out, you may notice that your scalp has a tingly feeling. This is probably due to the mint in the conditioner which leaves a cool, fresh sensation on your scalp. It is very lightweight and does not make thick lather like other conditioners. However, this conditioner for men’s curly hair works very well for detangling hair. You might not even need to use a comb after your shower.
Pros
- Leaves hair looking shiny
- Fresh mint scent
- Detangles hair
- Easy to use in the shower
Cons
- Mint fragrance might be too strong for some people
2. Olivina Men Rinse Out | Leave In Conditioner Cream — Editor’s Choice
Barrel and Oak - Rinse Out Leave In Conditioning Cream, Conditioner for Hair, Hair Cream for Men, Restores Dry Hair, Adds Shine, Aids Healthy Hair Growth, Natural Fragrance, Vegan (Bourbon Cedar, 6.5 oz
- WHY SHOULD I USE RINSE OUT LEAVE IN CONDITIONER? With 2 methods of application, this conditioner gives you the best of both...
- START SMELLING LIKE THE MAN YOU WANT TO BE: Our multipurpose conditioner comes in Barrel and Oak's signature fragrance, bourbon...
- EFFECTIVE INGREDIENTS FOR HAIR CARE: Our hair cream is great for damaged hair. With organic olive oil to aid natural shine, barley...
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
Aside from being affordable, one of the key highlights of the Olivina Conditioner (official website) is that it is vegan. This conditioner for men’s curly hair is cruelty-free, paraben-free, as well as silicone-free. If you are vegan or this is something that is important to you, you might want to consider this conditioner for your next purchase. The Olivina Conditioner comes in a standard bottle that is available in three different sizes. The largest size is sold in a dispensing bottle. Go for the largest size if you want to have an easier time applying the conditioner.
PERFORMANCE
There are two different ways to use this conditioner for men’s curly hair. You have the option of washing it out or leaving it in after rinsing out your shampoo. If you decide to leave it in, make sure to apply it evenly throughout your hair and scalp. The results are quite nice and this conditioning cream is unlikely to leave your hair feeling greasy. It also is not too sticky and has just the right consistency. The scent is very powerful and lasts a long time, which may or may not be appealing depending on your preferences.
Pros
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Very affordable
- Does not feel greasy or sticky
- Promotes healthy growth
Cons
- Strong scent
3. Billy Jealousy Cashmere Coat Hair Strengthening Conditioner — Best Value Conditioner
Billy Jealousy Cashmere Coat Strengthening Conditioner, 8 Fl Oz
- Repairs and conditions hair and scalp; helps prevent split-ends, shines and detangles
- Active ingredients help block the formation of DHT on your hair producing cells, promoting strong, healthy hair
- Creates an excellent environment for someone special to run their fingers through your hair.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
Some of the key ingredients of the Billy Jealousy conditioner (official website) are panthenol, lemon fruit extract, Swertia herb extract, and peppermint oil. It also has a cruelty-free formula.
PERFORMANCE
It has a white lotion-like consistency that is not too thick or foamy. This conditioner for men’s curly hair is quite moisturizing for moderately dry hair. You might also feel no residue after rinsing your hair out. Overall, it works well for softening hair. However, it’s worth noting that this may not be effective for extremely brittle and damaged hair.
Pros
- Provides good value
- Affordable price
- Light scent
- Restores strength and volume
Cons
- Not for itchy and dry scalp
4. ZIRH, Men’s Thickening Daily Volumizing Conditioner — Best for Color-Treated Hair
ZIRH, Men's Thickening Daily Volumizing Conditioner, 12 fl. oz.
- A volumizing & thickening daily conditioner, formulated with Silk & Keratin Proteins to enhance body & thickness of hair.
- Helps thoroughly remove impurities & residue from hair & scalp.
- Hair appears fuller softer smoother shinier more manageable & healthier looking.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
This conditioner for men’s curly hair contains many of the typical ingredients found in hair products such as keratin proteins, biotin, and coconut oil. It comes in a medium-sized tub with a substantial amount of product.
PERFORMANCE
The ZIRH Daily Volumizing Conditioner is safe to use for color-treated hair. If you use hair dye regularly, this may be the conditioner for you. Since coconut oil is one of the main ingredients, this conditioner for men’s curly hair goes a long way in terms of moisturizing. This may help make your curls shinier, fuller, and smoother. However, it can be a bit greasy so be sure not to apply too much.
Pros
- Safe for color-treated hair
- Maintains moisture balance
- Infused with coconut oil
- Enhances thickness without the weight
Cons
- Can be a bit greasy
5. Jack Black – Nourishing Hair and Scalp Conditioner — Best All-Around Conditioner
Jack Black - Nourishing Hair and Scalp Conditioner, 10 Fl Oz
- This lightweight conditioner offers long-term conditioning benefits to improve overall strength of hair and health of scalp.
- Helps reduce itching and dryness. Thickens and promotes flake-free hair growth. Hydrates and reduces frizz.
- Massage a quarter size amount into wet hair and scalp following shampoo. Leave on remainder of shower. Rinse.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
This conditioner for men’s curly hair is on the pricier end but as an all-around conditioner, it may be worth paying extra. The Jack Black conditioner (official website) can be used for all hair types, not just curly hair.
PERFORMANCE
First of all, it has a pleasant smell that is not too overpowering. This may be a good choice for those with sensitive noses. The product goes a long way and you probably do not need to use too much product in one wash. A little bit is enough to sufficiently moisturize your hair. Another benefit is that it does not irritate the scalp like other strong conditioners. The downside of this conditioner for men’s curly hair is that it does contain sulfate, so it might not be ideal for men with dyed hair.
Pros
- Lasts for a long time
- Does not irritate the scalp
- Pleasant scent
- For all hair types
Cons
- Not sulfate-free
6. Curl Quencher Moisturizing Conditioner — Best Natural Conditioner
Ouidad Curl Quencher Moisturizing Conditioner, 8.5 Fl Oz
- And is specially formulated to be sa
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
The formula of the Curl Quencher Moisturizing Conditioner (official website) makes use of natural ingredients such as botanical oils. It comes in a white bottle with an aesthetically pleasing minimalist design. This conditioner for men’s curly hair caters mostly to men and even women who have tight curls.
PERFORMANCE
The Curl Quencher conditioner is effective in detangling and lessening the frizzy appearance of curly hair. However, it has a bit of a waxy consistency and is also not as hydrating as its counterparts. You may need to use more product in order to get softer curls.
Pros
- Works great for tight curls
- Uses botanical oils and natural ingredients
- Extra-moisturizing treatment
- Good for fragile damaged hair
Cons
- Needs a lot of product to work
We have also prepared some reviews of the best products for men’s hair
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- Best Leave In Conditioner for Men – Buyer’s Guide
- TOP-6 Men’s Shampoo for Thick Hair – Buyer’s Guide
- Best Home Hair Clippers: Our Top 5 Picks + Buying Guide
Every editorial product is independently selected, though we may be compensated or receive an affiliate commission if you buy something through our links.
