Curly locks require hydration to maintain their bounce and definition, yet excessive oil can weigh them down, leaving them limp and lifeless. This makes finding the perfect conditioner that moisturizes without adding unnecessary oils absolutely essential.
This article will provide insights into the best conditioners for this hair type. Discover the key ingredients to look for, practical application tips, and top product recommendations to effectively manage your curls without the burden of greasy residue.
When it comes to selecting a conditioner for oily curly hair, it’s important to opt for formulations that strike the perfect balance between hydration and oil control. Look for ingredients such as detangling agents, hydrating agents, proteins, natural extracts, and scalp care ingredients. These components work harmoniously to nourish your curls while effectively managing excess oil production.
For a detailed explanation of each ingredient and its benefits, stay tuned as we delve deeper into our blog. Additionally, I’ve enlisted the expertise of my friend, a seasoned hair scientist and cosmetic formulator holding a PhD in Chemistry, to ensure that the information provided is well-researched and reliable. Together, we aim to equip you with the knowledge and tools needed to achieve beautifully balanced curls.
Conditioners For Oily Curly Hair: The Right Balance
No matter how oily your hair is, using conditioner is necessary. However, it’s important to choose the right type since some conditioners can be too heavy for oily hair. Oily hair results from excess sebum production by sebaceous glands, which gives hair a greasy and fatty appearance.
Sebum is a substance that naturally conditions the skin and hair by creating a waterproof layer on the surface. The chemical composition of sebum contains lipids, cholesterol, squalane, and fatty acid waxes.1-2 This is why sebum is good for skin and hair. But too much sebum can have negative effects.
When your body produces too much sebum, it can cause your hair to become greasy and weighed down, which can be a bigger problem for those with curly hair. This means you may need a different hair care routine for oily hair compared to other hair types.3
For oily hair, it is important to use products specifically designed for daily cleansing and conditioning. The conditioner needs to provide hydration and moisture without adding too much oil. It should strike a balance between the hair texture, natural sebum production, and the conditioner’s emollience.
Key Features of Conditioner Ideal for Oily Hair
A conditioner’s purpose is to make it easier to groom your hair by detangling and softening the hair fibers. A typical conditioner comprises cationic hair-detangling agents, moisturizing agents, and emollients.
Emollients are hydrophobic molecules that repel water and contain long-chain fatty backbones, providing lubrication to hair. However, when it comes to oily curly hair, choosing the right emollients is crucial due to their already high content of fatty acid waxes, large lipids, and squalane.
Adding more oils and lipids could make the hair too heavy and greasy. To avoid this, it’s important to find a balance between hydrating ingredients and emollience.
The formulation should add more hydration and counter the oiliness present on the surface of the scalp and curly hair.
To prevent a heavy build-up of waxes and minimize limp hair, it is recommended to use emollients that are lightly textured and have a low molecular weight.
To summarize, a conditioner made for oily curly hair should:
● Be rich in hydration.
● Contain a blend of cationics to detangle hair.
● Have a relatively small amount of emollients, preferably light-textured natural oils.
● Avoid large polymeric conditioning ingredients and heavy textured oils or butter.
After using conditioner on your hair, it should be easy to comb or style, and have a natural curl pattern, shape, and bounce.
Key Ingredients to Look For In A Conditioner For Oily Curly Hair
When shopping for a conditioner for your curly oily hair, you should look for products with lightweight ingredients. Below are some of the most effective ingredients to look for:
Detangling Ingredients
Curly hairs are vulnerable to knots and twists that can damage the hair shaft and cause hair breakage.
Oily curly hair, though, being lubricated with sebum, can still develop knots and tangles. The heaviness of the sebum and its tendency to make hair feel limp can result in more knots, as the hair loses some of its natural curl and bounce.
Detangling is essential to make hair easier to groom and restore curl definition. Conditioner formulas use cationic surfactants, which are the backbone of a conditioner formulation. These surfactants work by smoothing down cuticles, reducing friction, and preventing static build-up.4
Cetrimonium chloride and Behentrimonium chloride are common ingredients used for softening and detangling hair. There are many variations of these ingredients available to formulators, which differ in their positive charge density, fatty carbon chain, and molecular weight.
A relatively small carbon chain is preferred for oily hair fibers to avoid overloading oily hair with fatty carbon chains.
Our preferred cationic hair-detangling ingredients for curly oily hair are:
● Cetrimonium Chloride – a 16-Carbon chain positively charged molecule.
● Cetrimonium Methosulfate – a sister molecule of Cetrimonium chloride.
● Behentrimonium Chloride – an 18-carbon positively charged molecule.
● Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine – an amine molecule with superior hair conditioning, highly effective in controlling fly away.
Hydrating Agents
To maintain healthy hair, it’s crucial to keep it moisturized. Without enough moisture, hair can become dry, brittle, and rough. Therefore, it’s important to ensure that your hair has enough water.
Curly oily hair can suffer from dryness despite having an excess of sebum and fatty materials. To combat this, hair requires humectants that can increase the amount of water molecules in the hair shaft. These ingredients draw in water molecules from the environment and attach them to the hair strands.
Although glycerin and propylene glycol are traditional humectants, they may not be suitable for oily hair fibers due to certain drawbacks. Glycerin, in particular, can make hair sticky and give a heavy feel because of its strong attraction to water.
Beaine is a new-generation type of hydrating agent extracted from beetroot juice that is eco-friendly and sustainable. This small biomolecule has a high affinity for water molecules and does not feel heavy when applied.
Other favorite hydrating ingredients for oily curly hair are:
● Propanediol
● PCA salts with Sodium or Zinc
● Hexylene glycol
Proteins – Fiber Strengthening Agents
Oily curly hair can use proteins as they are excellent hair conditioning and strengthening ingredients. The protein molecules penetrate the cuticle layer and fill empty spaces inside the cortex, whether in a rinse-off or leave-in conditioner.
Hydrolyzed proteins work well for curly hair that tends to be oily because they dissolve easily in water and can rinse off easily during washing. These biomolecules form a coating over the shaft which is water-permeable and enhances the moisture level of the fiber.
We have selected some hydrolyzed proteins that are suitable for individuals with oily curly hair.
● Hydrolyzed Wheat Amino Acids
● Hydrolyzed keratin
● Hydrolyzed Soy Protein
● Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein
Natural Extracts and Scalp Care Ingredients
Aqueous extracts obtained from various body parts of the plants have several beneficial effects on hair and scalp quality. These hydrosols comprise flavonoids, polyphenols, vitamins, and minerals.
Due to their high polyphenolic content, they are excellent anti-oxidants that can protect the hair shaft against age or UV-induced damage to hair proteins.
These natural extracts can benefit the scalp cells by improving blood circulation and promoting faster cellular turnover. This can improve scalp health and slow down the aging process.
A wide range of natural extracts can be used in a conditioner formulation for oily curly hair. Our preferred ones are listed below:
● Green Tea Extract
● Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract
● Aloe Vera Leaf Extract, Gel, or Juice
● Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract
● Amla Extract
● Indian Gooseberry Extract
● Horsetail Extract
● Burdock Extract
Ingredients to Avoid
Oily curly hair has a greasy and heavy feel due to excessive production of sebum. They are naturally over-coated with oily and fatty materials. For this reason, you avoid using hair conditioners with a lot of natural oils or butter. Doing so could make your hair even greasier and distort its curly shape.
It is also best to avoid using ingredients that come from petroleum, like mineral oil, liquid paraffin, paraffin wax, and petrolatum. These ingredients are very resistant to water and can leave a thick coating on your hair, which is difficult to wash off.
You should also stay away from petroleum-derived esters, such as Isopropyl Myristate, Isopropyl Palmitate, Long Chain Alkyl Benzoate, and others because they are heavy and have a high molecular weight, which can make your hair feel weighed down.
Lanolin is an excellent emollient and moisturizing ingredient, however, it has a sticky and highly occlusive nature that can make hair feel heavy.
Moreover, avoid hair conditioners that contain high-molecular-weight synthetic polymers, e.g., carbomers, polyacrylates, etc. These are film-forming polymers that create a tough coating on hair that is not easy to get rid of. This can leave hair feeling stiff and hard.
Can We Still Use Oil-Based Products to Manage Oily Curly Hair?
Yes! Hair conditioners containing oils can be used; however, it’s crucial to carefully choose the type and amount of oil used in the product to prevent any negative effects.
Natural oils with a light texture, ease of spreadability, and high content of unsaturated fatty acids are preferred. These oils create a delicate and fine layer on the surface and because they have low viscosity and consistency, they do not cause stickiness or heaviness.
Some of our preferred natural oils for oily curly hair are:
● Coconut Oil
● Apricot Kernel Oil
● Avocado Oil
● Argan Oil
● Baobab Oil
● Sunflower Oil
● Refined Olive Oil
Choose hair conditioners that contain lower amounts of oils. To do this, make sure to check the ingredient list on the back of the product label.
What Causes Oily Hair?
Oily hair is primarily caused by an overproduction of sebum, a natural oil produced by the sebaceous glands in your scalp. While sebum is essential for keeping your hair healthy and shiny, too much of it can lead to oily hair, making it look greasy and unwashed. Here are some common causes of oily hair:
- Hormonal Changes: Hormones play a significant role in sebum production. Fluctuations in hormone levels, particularly during puberty, pregnancy, or menstrual cycles, can cause an increase in oil production.
- Overwashing: Washing your hair too often can strip your scalp of its natural oils. This can cause your sebaceous glands to produce more oil to compensate for the loss, leading to oily hair.
- Poor Diet: Consuming too many oily foods or foods high in fat can increase the oil production in your scalp.
- Hair Type: People with fine hair tend to have more oil glands on their scalp, which can lead to an overproduction of oil.
- Using Wrong Hair Products: Using heavy conditioners, oils, or styling products can weigh down your hair and make it oily. It’s important to use products that are suitable for your hair type.
- Stress: Stress can also cause your sebaceous glands to produce more oil.
- Not Rinsing Properly: If shampoo and conditioner aren’t fully rinsed from your hair, they can leave a residue that makes your hair appear oily.
- Genetics. It is common for hair to become oily during adolescence, and in some cases, it can be due to genetics.
Remember, it’s always best to consult with a dermatologist or a hair care professional if you’re struggling with excessively oily hair. They can help determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatments or changes in your hair care routine.
Caring for Oily Curly Hair: Tips and Tricks
Let’s start by understanding the science behind it. Oily hair is primarily caused by an overproduction of sebum, a natural oil produced by sebaceous glands on your scalp. While sebum is essential for keeping your hair healthy and shiny, too much can make the scalp.
While sebum is essential for keeping hair healthy and shiny, too much can make it look greasy and unwashed. Various factors, such as hormonal changes, diet, stress, and improper hair care, make hair look greasy and unwashed. Various factors, such as hormonal changes, diet, stress, and improper hair care, can produce excess oil.
Symptoms of Oily Hair:
- Hair that looks or feels greasy even shortly after washing
- Heavy, flat, or dull hair
- Itchy scalp or dandruff
Step-by-Step Routine
- Shampooing: Opt for a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo designed for oily hair. Shampoo every other day to avoid stripping your scalp of its natural oils, which can cause it to produce more oil in response. To properly wash your hair, massage the shampoo into your scalp and roots.
- Conditioning: Use a lightweight conditioner and apply it only to the ends of your hair, not the scalp.
- Rinsing: Rinse thoroughly to ensure no product residue is left on your scalp or hair.
- Styling: Avoid using heavy styling products like oils and serums that can weigh down your hair. Instead, use lightweight mousses or sprays.
Natural Remedies
Natural remedies offer effective solutions for managing oily hair by reducing sebum production, cleansing hair follicles, and restoring scalp pH balance. Here are some highly effective options:
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar is known for its ability to balance the pH level of your scalp, which can help control the production of oil. Dilute it with water and use it as a rinse after shampooing.
- Aloe Vera: Aloe vera has cleansing properties that can help reduce oiliness and remove impurities from your scalp and hair. You can mix aloe vera gel with your shampoo or apply it directly to your scalp.
- Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil has powerful antiseptic properties that can help cleanse the scalp, reducing oiliness and dandruff. Add a few drops to your regular shampoo for an extra oil-fighting boost.
- Lemon Juice: The citric acid in lemon juice can help balance your scalp’s pH and control oil production. Mix the juice from one lemon with a cup of water and use it as a rinse after shampooing.
- Bentonite Clay: Bentonite clay works as a natural absorbent, soaking up excess oil in your hair. You can create a hair mask by mixing the clay with water and applying it to your scalp and hair.
- Witch Hazel: Witch hazel can relieve itching, close oil-producing pores, and reduce inflammation caused by dandruff, pH imbalance, or other scalp disorders. It’s also gentle on the scalp and hair. Mix witch hazel with water and apply it to your scalp using a cotton pad.
- Rosemary Oil: Rosemary oil has been used for centuries to treat oily hair. Its antiseptic and astringent properties make it an effective natural remedy for reducing oiliness and dandruff. Simply mix it with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, and apply it to your scalp. When using natural remedies, you should always test them on a small patch of skin to check for any allergies. Additionally, it’s best to use natural remedies in moderation and not overuse them.
- Peppermint Oil: Peppermint oil has powerful antiseptic and antibacterial properties that can help reduce excess sebum production. It also helps soothe the scalp, reducing dandruff and itching. Mix peppermint oil with a carrier oil, apply it to your scalp, and let it sit for 15-20 minutes before washing it out.
Always remember to do a patch test when trying a new natural remedy to ensure you don’t have an adverse reaction. Also, these remedies should be used in conjunction with a good hair care routine for best results.
Additional Advice Remember, everyone’s hair is different. What works for one person might not work for another. Factors like genetics, environment, and lifestyle can all influence how oily your hair gets. Always listen to your hair and adjust your routine as needed.
Which Styling Products Should I Use?
Here are some top-rated styling products specifically designed to combat oiliness while providing lift and long-lasting hold:
- Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Dry Shampoo: This dry shampoo is a game-changer for oily hair. It absorbs oil, sweat, and odor, making your hair look and feel clean. Plus, it adds a nice lift at the roots.
- Bumble and Bumble Prêt-à-Powder: This powder-based product serves as a dry shampoo, style extender, and volume booster all in one. It’s perfect for absorbing excess oil and adding texture to your hair.
- Moroccanoil Root Boost: If you’re looking for volume, this is a great option. It provides a full-bodied lift to the roots, and its unique anti-oil formula helps control sebum production.
- Maple Holistics Degrease Shampoo: A balancing shampoo for oily hair that helps regulate sebum production while gently cleansing the hair and scalp.
- Aveda Pure Abundance Hair Potion: This innovative product transforms in your hands from a powder to a lightweight, absorbent lotion. It adds incredible lift and volume to your hair while absorbing excess oil.
- Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo: This shampoo is a great weekly treatment for removing residue from hair products and excess oil from your scalp.
- Innersense Natural I Create Hold Styling Gel: Offering mild control, this lightweight gel provides sleek, clean looks without the build-up that can make hair feel dirty or heavy.
- Rizos Curls Alcohol-Free Volumizing Hair Spray: This hairspray gives an impressive hold and volume without weighing your hair down or adding extra oil.
- Sea Salt Sprays: Using salt sprays on your hair can create a disheveled, wild appearance and help manage oily hair. The salt absorbs some of the excess oil, resulting in textured and refreshed-looking hair. Additionally, if you have naturally straight hair, salt can assist in holding curls and waves.
- Gels / Creams: If you prefer creams and gels, search for products labeled “lightweight” or “weightless”. Using hair products with tea tree oil may help decrease oily hair.
Remember, everyone’s hair is unique, so what works for one person may not work for another. It’s always best to experiment with different products to see what works best for your hair type and desired styling outcome.
Top 16 Conditioners
Keep in mind that everyone’s hair is unique, so it’s essential to consider your specific needs when selecting a conditioner.
For your convenience, we’ve included ingredient lists for each product mentioned in this guide. However, please note that these lists may not always be up-to-date. To ensure accuracy, we recommend referring to the information on the product bottle. Additionally, be mindful of product sizes, as they may vary across different retailers.
1. Briogeo Curl Charisma Conditioner
This conditioner is loved for its blend of natural ingredients. The tomato fruit ferment and mollis leaf extract help to “close” the hair cuticle, resulting in even curls as the hair dries. Additionally, the formula contains shea butter and sweet almond oils to soften the hair and enhance the curl without making it heavy. Quinoa extract strengthens and protects the hair.
Ingredients: Water/Aqua/Eau, Cetyl Alcohol*, Stearyl Alcohol*, Brassica Alcohol*, Glycerin*, Cetyl Esters*, Behentrimonium Methosulfate*, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride*, Isopropyl Palmitate*, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Extract*, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter*, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil*, Rice Amino Acids*, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil*, Lactobacillus/Tomato Fruit Ferment Extract*, Keratin Amino Acids*, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract*, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil*, Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Peel Oil*, Hydrolyzed Quinoa*, Rosa Canina Fruit Oil*, Tocopheryl Acetate, Panthenol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice*, Saccharina Longicruris Extract*, Acyl Coenzyme A Desaturase*, Ocimum Basilicum (Basil) Leaf Extract*, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil*, Cetrimonium Chloride*, Arginine*, Isododecane*, Acanthus Mollis Leaf Extract*, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride*, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate*, Butylene Glycol, Citric Acid*, Bambusa Vulgaris Extract*, Brassicyl Isoleucinate Esylate*, Sodium Citrate*, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Fragrance (Parfum), Dehydroacetic Acid, Benzyl Alcohol.
2. Bumble and Bumble Thickening Conditioner
This conditioner moisturizes your hair without weighing it down. It has silk powder that sticks to each hair strand and separates them for a fuller look. The conditioner uses the same volumizing silk microfiber technology found in styling products. It also contains thickeners that add more volume and bounce to fine hair. This conditioner is especially good for people with fine, thin, or limp hair. It also contains light oils, which are ideal for oily hair.
Ingredients: Water, Cetearyl Alcohol, Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Behentrimonium Chloride, Cetyl Alcohol, Isododecane, Stearyl Alcohol, Phyllanthus Emblica Fruit Extract, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Seed Protein, Hydrolyzed Yeast Protein, Hydrolyzed Corn Protein, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Extract, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Extract, Pisum Sativum (Pea) Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Extract, Ocimum Basilicum Hairy Root Culture Extract, Laurdimonium Hydroxypropyl Hydrolyzed Keratin, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Hydrogenated Ethylhexyl Olivate, Caprylyl Glycol, Cetrimonium Chloride, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Ethylhexylglycerin, Amodimethicone, Propanediol, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Polysorbate 60, Isopropyl Alcohol, Methoxy PEG/PPG-7/3 Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Panthenol, C11-15 Pareth-7, Polysilicone-15, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Hydrogenated Olive Oil Unsaponifiables, Cyperus Esculentus Root Oil, Glycerin, Trideceth-12, Octyldodecanol, Alcohol, Laureth-9, Tocopherol, Vp/Hexadecene Copolymer, Cystine Bis-PG-Propyl Silanetriol, Jojoba Esters, BHT, Citric Acid, Fragrance, Linalool, Benzyl Benzoate, Limonene, Hexyl Cinnamal, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Phytic Acid, Disodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol, Sorbic Acid, Chlorphenesin, Sodium Benzoate.
3. OGX Tea Tree Mint Conditioner
The nourishing conditioner contains a blend of ingredients, including Australian tea tree oil, milk protein, peppermint oil, and witch hazel. These ingredients combine to invigorate and nourish the scalp, remove buildup, and moisturize hair. The lightweight formula effectively moisturizes hair without causing it to become heavy or weighed down, resulting in a refreshed and revitalized look.
Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Cetearyl Alcohol, Behentrimonium Chloride, Cetyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Ceteareth-20, Fragrance (Parfum), Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Hydrolyzed Milk Protein, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil, Panthenol, Glycol Distearate, Glycol Stearate, DMDM Hydantoin, Isopropyl Alcohol, Dimethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethiconol, Tetrasodium EDTA, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone.
4. Acure Daily Workout Watermelon & Blood Orange Conditioner
This hair conditioner utilizes watermelon and blood orange as its key ingredients to hydrate and regulate oil production for oily hair. If you have to wash and condition your hair every day because you sweat a lot, live in a harsh environment, or have oily hair, this is formulated to be gentle on your hair even with daily use, especially for those heavy workout days.
Ingredients: Water (Eau), Cetearyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Behentrimonium Chloride, Glyceryl Stearate, Stearalkonium Chloride, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Sorbitan Olivate, Cetearyl Glucoside, Panthenol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Citrullus Lanatus (Watermelon) Fruit Extract, Citrus Sinensis (Orange) Fruit Extract, Rubus Fruticosus (Blackberry) Fruit Extract*, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract*, Euterpe Oleracea Fruit Extract*, Rosa Canina Fruit Extract*, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract*, Aspalathus Linearis Leaf Extract*, Punica Granatum Extract*, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Peel Oil, Eugenia Caryophyllus (Clove) Bud Oil, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil*, Arginine, Lactic Acid, Sodium Levulinate, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Cetyl Alcohol, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Hydroxide.
5. Oribe Serene Scalp Balancing Conditioner
This conditioner benefits both flaky scalps and oily hair. It contains Acacia Tree Extract to nourish and calm the scalp and improve hair moisture. Shea Butter and Panthenol deeply hydrate and condition brittle hair. The Oribe Signature Complex helps protect hair from environmental damage, oxidative stress, photoaging, and the degradation of natural keratin.
Ingredients: Aqua/Water/Eau, Behentrimonium Chloride, Butylene Glycol, Cetyl Alcohol, Cetyl Esters, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Dimethicone, Stearyl Alcohol, Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Hydrogenated Ethylhexyl Olivate, Cetrimonium Chloride, Parfum/Fragrance, Amodimethicone, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Polyurethane-39, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Panthenol, Hydrogenated Olive Oil Unsaponifiables, Trideceth-12, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Polysilicone-15, Glycerin, Quaternium-95, Caffeine, Polysorbate 20, Propanediol, Citrullus Lanatus (Watermelon) Fruit Extract, Litchi Chinensis Fruit Extract, Hydrolyzed Quinoa, Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein PG-Propyl Silanetriol, Sodium PCA, Sodium Lactate, Arginine, Leontopodium Alpinum Extract, Aspartic Acid, Polysorbate 60, PCA, Acacia Seyal Gum Extract, Ascorbic Acid, Tocopheryl Acetate, Glycine, Alanine, Serine, Valine, Disodium EDTA, Isoleucine, Proline, Threonine, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Histidine, Phenylalanine, Biotin, Niacinamide, Isopropyl Alcohol, Citric Acid, Chlorphenesin, Sodium Dehydroacetate, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Phosphate, Disodium Phosphate, Benzoic Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol, Limonene, Hexyl Cinnamal, Linalool.
6. Philip Kingsley Moisture Balancing Combination Conditioner
This conditioner works well for both oily and dry hair as it contains nourishing, strengthening, and anti-static ingredients. The Wheat Protein strengthens hair strands while silicone reduces static and adds shine. Hydrolyzed Elastin provides strength, elasticity, and body to hair. When used on oily hair, the conditioner moisturizes and nourishes the mid-lengths and ends of hair while avoiding build-up at the roots.
Ingredients: Aqua/Water/Eau, Cetearyl Alcohol, Amodimethicone, Cetrimonium Chloride, Phenoxyethanol, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Trideceth-12, Ethylhexylglycerin, Hydrolyzed Elastin, Parfum (Fragrance), Sodium Benzoate, Citric Acid.
7. Briogeo Superfoods Mango + Cherry Oil Control & Balancing Conditioner
This conditioner is inspired by smoothies and is full of nutrients that provide antioxidants for oily hair. It is ideal for people with balanced-to-oily hair types and active lifestyles. The conditioner is creamy and does not contain silicone. It helps balance the production of oil and promotes a healthy scalp and hair by incorporating vitamins and minerals.
Ingredients: Water/Aqua/Eau, Glycerin*, Isopropyl Palmitate*, Behentrimonium Chloride*, Cetearyl Alcohol*, Brassica Alcohol*, Cetyl Esters*, Brassica Oleracea Acephala Leaf Extract*, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract*, Spinacia Oleracea (Spinach) Leaf Extract*, Brassica Oleracea Italica (Broccoli) Extract*, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil*, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract*, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil*, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract*, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Fruit Extract*, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract*, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract*, Beta Vulgaris (Beet) Root Extract*, Panax Ginseng Root Extract*, Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Oil*, Chlorella Vulgaris Extract*, Brassicyl Isoleucinate Esylate*, Panthenol, Cetrimonium Chloride*, Behentrimonium Methosulfate*, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride*, Arginine*, Citric Acid*, Fragrance (Parfum), Dehydroacetic Acid, Benzyl Alcohol, Chlorophyllin-Copper Complex (CI 75810)*.
8. OGX Fine Curls Conditioner
This drugstore product uses a special combination of coconut water and citrus oils that are known for their hydrating properties. It helps to enhance the beauty of your curls gently and without making them heavy.
Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol, Behentrimonium Chloride, Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed Oil, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Water, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract, PPG-3 Benzyl Ether Myristate, Glycerin, Dimethicone, Polyquaternium-47, Steareth-20, Propylene Glycol, Disodium EDTA, Isopropyl Alcohol, Citric Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Benzoate, Fragrance (Parfum).
9. Sukin Oil Balancing Conditioner
This conditioner contains jojoba oil, which provides light hydration to balance oily hair and dry ends. Wheat protein and moringa extract nourish oily hair, whereas Vitamin E and Aloe Vera moisturize it, leaving it refreshed and soft. A blend of citrus and spearmint is added for a refreshing fragrance.
Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Cetyl Alcohol, Cetrimonium Chloride, Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Oil, Glycerin, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Moringa Oleifera Leaf Extract, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Peel Oil, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Peel Oil, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil, Citrus Tangerina (Tangerine) Peel Oil, Mentha Viridis (Spearmint) Leaf Oil, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Isopropyl Alcohol, Citric Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Benzyl Alcohol, Limonene. Natural component of essential oils.
10. Ouai Fine Hair Conditioner
This conditioner is designed for fine hair and has three benefits: it adds volume, softness, and strength. The ingredients include Biotin, which helps with hair growth and inflammation, Chia Seed Oil, which is high in fatty acids that make hair softer and more moisturized, and Hydrolyzed keratin, which strengthens hair, improves elasticity, and prevents breakage and split ends.
Ingredients: Water/Aqua/Eau, Cetearyl Alcohol, Behentrimonium Chloride (Anti-Static Agent/Agent Antistatique), Fragrance / Parfum, Cetrimonium Chloride (Anti-Static Agent/Agent Antistatique), Panthenol, Glycerin, Hydrolyzed Keratin, Salvia Hispanica Seed Oil, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Polyquaternium-37, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Lauryl Glucoside, Propoxytetramethyl Piperidinyl Dimethicone, Trideceth-6, C11-15 Pareth-7, Acetic Acid, Sodium Acetate, Sodium Hydroxide, Tocopherol, Sodium Chloride, Biotin, Citric Acid, Isopropyl Alcohol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sorbitan Oleate, Potassium Sorbate, Phenoxyethanol, Benzyl Salicylate, Limonene, Hexyl Cinnamal.
11. Desert Essence Tea Tree & Lemon Conditioner
This conditioner contains Jojoba Oil and Lemon Tea Tree Oil that provide lightweight and non-greasy moisture to the hair. Infused with a refreshing Lemon scent, it also contains Organic Australian Tea Tree Oil and Lemon Peel Extract that help to balance the natural pH of the scalp. Additionally, it has Organic Aloe which nourishes and soothes the hair. The conditioner leaves the hair soft, bouncy, and easy to manage.
Ingredients: Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Extract*, Cetearyl Alcohol, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Glycerin (Plant), Hydrolyzed Jojoba Esters, Leptospermum Petersonii Oil (Lemon Tea Tree), Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil*, Panthenol (Provitamin B-5), Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract*, Lepidium Meyenii Root Extract (Maca Root)*, Yucca Brevifolia Root Extract (Yucca Cactus)*, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil*, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil*, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter*, Symphytum Officinale Leaf Extract (Comfrey)*, Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Leaf Extract*, Macrocystis Pyrifera Extract (Sea Kelp)*, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil*, Cetrimonium Chloride, Benzyl Alcohol, Dehydroacetic Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Citric Acid *Certified Organic.
12. Tresemme Pro-Infusion Fluid Smooth Conditioner
This conditioner is designed to give you silky smooth hair with natural movement. It is free of silicone and infused with Niacinamide and a COCO-PROTEINIZE complex that contains natural coconut droplets and plant-based salon protein. It hydrates each strand and penetrates deep into the hair fibers to provide smooth, detangled, and high-shine hair.
By the way, this formula does not contain any silicones, parabens, dyes, or DMDM Hydantoin.
Ingredients: Ingredients/Ingredients: Water (Eau), Cetearyl Alcohol, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Behentrimonium Chloride, Niacinamide, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Dipropylene Glycol, Fragrance (Parfum), Lactic Acid, Sodium Benzoate, Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone, Citronellol, Hexyl Cinnamal, Limonene, Linalool.
13. Aveda’s Scalp Benefits Balancing Conditioner
This conditioner is specifically made to balance and soothe greasy hair and scalps. It removes excess oil and build-up while also nourishing the scalp. It can also help get rid of dryness, itchiness, and flakiness in the scalp. Using this conditioner creates a healthy foundation for healthy hair.
Ingredients: WaterAquaEau, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Hippophae Rhamnoides (Sea Buckthorn) Extract, Echinacea Purpurea (Coneflower) Extract, Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Leaf Extract, Arctium Lappa (Burdock) Root Extract, Narcissus Tazetta Bulb Extract, Hippophae Rhamnoides (Sea Buckthorn) Oil, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Limnanthes Alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil, Babassuamidopropyltrimonium Methosulfate, Behenamidopropyltrimonium Methosulfate, Dimethiconol Meadowfoamate, Glyceryl Stearate, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Isostearamidopropyl Morpholine Lactate, Fragrance (Parfum), Limonene, Eugenol, Linalool, Stearyl Alcohol, Sodium Gluconate, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone.
14. L’Oréal Paris Extraordinary Clay Conditioner
This conditioner is formulated with three refined clays to cleanse greasy roots and moisturize dry ends, resulting in well-balanced hair hydration. It is specially designed for individuals with oily roots and dry ends.
Ingredients: Aqua, Cetearyl Alcohol, Behentrimonium Chloride, Soybean Oil, Cetyl Esters, Parfum, Isopropyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Bht, Linalool, Hexyl Cinnamal, Benzyl Alcohol, Benzyl Salicylate, Chlorhexidine Dihydrochloride, Citric Acid, Citronellol, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Salicylic Acid, Kaolin, Montmorillonite, Geraniol, Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone, Sodium Hyaluronate.
Maple Holistics Pure Tea Tree Oil Conditioner
This conditioner contains pure lavender, rosemary, tea tree oil, shea butter, and silk amino acids. Tea tree oil can clarify the scalp and soften hair and skin. Shea butter is high in vitamins A and E while silk amino acids help preserve moisture and improve the appearance of hair.
Keratin is a fundamental component of hair, skin, nails, and other body parts that offers protection, durability, ease of handling, and a glowing appearance to the outermost layers. If applied to the hair, Coconut can envelop each strand, resulting in smooth and silky locks.
Ingredients: Water, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (Fractionated Coconut Oil), Glycerin, Propanediol, Gluconolactone, Behentrimonium Chloride, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil, Lavandula Officinalis (Lavender) Flower Oil, Menthol, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Quaternium-91, Cetrimonium Methosulfate, Panthenol, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Silk Amino Acids, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Powder, Hippophae Rhamnoides (Sea Buckthorn) Seed Oil, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Seed Oil, Argania Spinosa (Argan) Kernel Oil, Hibiscus Syriacus Linn. Extract, Sodium Benzoate, Calcium Gluconate.
15. Paul Mitchell Special Tea Tree Conditioner
The famous Tingle Complex contains a blend of tea tree, peppermint, and lavender that leaves a cooling, “tingling” sensation on the scalp. Its invigorating formula helps detangle, smooth, and soften hair; tea tree oil also helps reduce the production of excess sebum.
Ingredients: Aqua (Water, Eau), Cetearyl Alcohol, Isohexadecane, Isododecane, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Hedychium Coronarium (White Ginger) Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract, Algae Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract, Anthemis Nobilis Flower Extract, Simmondsia Chinensis Leaf Extract, PPG-5-Ceteth-20, Citric Acid, Tetrasodium EDTA, Magnesium Nitrate, Bisamino PEG/PPG-41/3 Aminoethyl PG-Propyl Dimethicone, PEG-12 Dimethicone, Sodium Glycolate, Methylisothiazolinone, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Magnesium Chloride, Sodium Hydroxide, Parfum (Fragrance), Limonene.
References
1. Green, S. C.; Stewart, M. E.; Downing, D. T., Variation in sebum fatty acid composition among adult humans. J. Invest. Dermatol. 1984, 83 (2), 114-117.
2. Zviak, C., The Science of Hair Care. Taylor & Francis: 2005.
3. Wertz, P. W.; Downing, D. T., Integral lipids of human hair. Lipids 1988, 23 (9), 878-881.
4. Ran, G.; Zhang, Y.; Song, Q.; Wang, Y.; Cao, D., The adsorption behavior of cationic surfactant onto human hair fibers. Colloids and Surfaces B: Biointerfaces 2009, 68 (1), 106-110.
