Last Updated on April 9, 2023 by Verna Meachum

Dry hair is one of the most common hair complaints in the curly hair community, and it can be a real challenge to find the best conditioner for dry hair that will actually do what it’s supposed to do.

Dry hair can come from a number of factors, including weather, over-washing, and damage from heat styling.

But no matter what the cause, there are a few things that all the best conditioners have in common.

Conditioners for dry hair will hydrate and nourish your strands, without weighing them down.

With all of the different options on the market, it can be tough to know which one is right for you.

That’s why we’ve put together a list of the ten best conditioners for dry hair.

How to Know if You Have Dry Hair

One of the best ways to determine whether you have dry hair is to touch it.

If your hair feels brittle, straw-like, coarse, frizzy, or rougher than usual, it’s likely that your hair is dry.

If it has become difficult to comb, style, tangles easily, or if it’s breaking more easily than usual, those are also signs that your hair is dry.

Dryness can also cause your scalp to become irritated or flaky.

Another way to tell is by looking at the ends of your hair.

If they are split or frayed, that’s another sign that your hair is dry and in need of some extra hydration.

If you’re not sure whether your hair is dry, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and use a conditioner designed for dry hair.

What Causes Dry Hair?

Dry hair can result from:

• Excessive use of shampoo
• Using the wrong type of shampoo for your hair type or porosity level (low, normal, high)
• Overuse of heating tools such as hair dryers, flat irons, and curling wands
• Exposure to sun, wind, or other harsh weather conditions
• Not drinking enough water
• Lack of protection – not using products to help keep moisture from escaping, not wearing a hat in the sun, etc.
• Poor diet
• Genetics
• Dry scalp
• Age – As you get older, your scalp makes less oil. Hormone changes after menopause can also lead to dry hair.
• Harsh chemicals, such as bleach
• Hard water
• Health issues that may lead to hair loss, such as anorexia nervosa
• Hormonal problems

Tips for preventing dry hair

Are your strands parched? Dry hair is more prone to breakage if not treated, which can be exacerbated by heat styling, sun exposure, and the weather.

If you’re prone to this problem, don’t forget to use a targeted conditioner, which can help dry hair (as well as using a moisturizing shampoo to add extra moisture).

Look for formulas that use a combination of moisturizing and strengthening ingredients, like plant oils, and humectants.

✔️ If you’re not sure what’s causing your dry hair, it’s best to play it safe and use a conditioner designed for dry hair.

✔️ Use a moisturizing shampoo that is appropriate for your hair type.

✔️ Avoid using heated tools as much as possible. Try air drying or using a lower heat setting on your hair dryer.

✔️ If you must use heated tools, be sure to use a heat protectant spray before styling.

✔️ Limit your exposure to sun and wind. Wear a hat or scarf when you know you’ll be outside for an extended period of time.

✔️ Drink plenty of water every day to keep your body and hair hydrated.

✔️ Eat a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats.

✔️ Avoid harsh chemicals, such as bleach. If you must use them, be sure to follow up with a deep conditioning treatment and protein treatment.

✔️ If you have hard water, install a water softener to help prevent your hair from becoming dry.

✔️ If you’re experiencing hair loss, consult with your doctor to find out the cause and get appropriate treatment.

10 Best Conditioner for Dry Hair Picks

1. Bouncecurl Super Smooth Cream Conditioner. Best for protein sensitive hair.
2. Bouncecurl Ayurvedic Deep Conditioner. This is protein-free and can be used as a conditioner and deep conditioner.
3. Shea Moisture Raw Shea Butter Restorative Conditioner. Best for dry hair.
4. Briogeo Blossom & Bloom Ginseng and Biotin Volumizing Conditioner. Best for chemically treated hair.
5. As I Am Hydration Elation. Best for all extremely parched hair.
6. Giovanni 50:50 Balanced Hydrating Calming Conditioner. Best for over-processed hair.
7. Redken All Soft Mega Conditioner. Best for extremely dry hair
8. Briogeo Be Gentle, Be Kind Aloe + Oat Milk Ultra Soothing. Best for those with sensitivities to fragrance, essential oils, lactose, soy, and gluten.
9. Pattern Medium Conditioner. Best for low to normal hair porosity.
10. Briogeo Farewell Frizz™ Smoothing Conditioner. Best for dry, frizzy hair.

FAQs About Dry Hair

What is the best shampoo for dry hair?

The best shampoo for dry hair is one that is designed to hydrate and nourish your strands. Look for shampoos that contain ingredients such as emollient oils, coconut oil, glycerin, aloe vera, etc.

How can I prevent my hair from becoming dry?

You can prevent your hair from becoming dry by avoiding heated tools, chemicals, harsh ingredients, and limiting your exposure to sun and harsh winds. You should also drink plenty of water every day and eat a healthy diet.

How do you condition dry hair?

To condition dry hair, start by shampooing your strands with a moisturizing shampoo. Follow up with a deep conditioning treatment or hair mask. You can also use a leave-in conditioner or hot oil treatment to help keep your locks hydrated.

Final Thoughts on the Best Conditioner for Dry Hair

Dry hair can be a huge annoyance, but with a few simple changes you can keep it moisturized and healthy.

The best way to start is by using a deep conditioner or hair mask at least once a week. You can also try using a leave-in conditioner or oil treatment to help keep your strands moisturized.

If you have hard water, you may also want to install a water softener.

By following these tips, you can say goodbye to dry hair for good!

Thanks for reading!