8 Best Deep Conditioners For Transitioning Hair (2024), As Per An Expert
It is time to give your darling tresses the hydration and nourishment they deserve.
Lindsay Loo is a cosmetologist who has spent 10 years behind the chair in a storied salon in Chelsea. She is a certified Wella Master Color Expert and also has experience backstage at New York Fashion Week. She has a private studio and loves to make her clients feel amazing and welcomed.
Read full bio of Lindsay Loo
Experience: 3 yearsKirtana has a postgraduate degree in mass communication and journalism from St. Joseph’s College, Bengaluru, and 3 years of professional experience. She developed a deep passion for writing after reading the brilliant works of Enid Blyton and Roald Dahl and has chosen a career that is driven by creativity.
Read full bio of Kirtana Divakar
Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Experience: 3 yearsSwathi has a postgraduate degree in English literature from The English And Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and over three years of experience in writing on beauty, health, and lifestyle. She also has a diploma in English journalism from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Kottayam, and is a certified skincare coach.
Read full bio of Swathi E
Image: Shutterstock
If your hair is transitioning back to its curly self after a chemical hair process like a perm or smoothening, these deep conditioners will hydrate and nourish the hair. They will also help to prevent further damage caused due to the extreme heat that leaves hair in splits and full of frizz. They also encourage healthy hair growth and improve the texture of your newly forming curly hair as well. If you’re unsure about what conditioner to bring home, don’t fret, as you’re in luck. Simply dive into our list of the 8 best deep conditioners for transitioning hair and find a perfect one to help shower your tresses with love. All these products have garnered high reviews on various forums. Some of them are also free of animal testing, helping you get an ethical option. We’re sure you’ll be flaunting gorgeous, thick coils that are on everyone’s wish list in no time.
In This Article
Our Top Picks Of 2024: 8 Best Deep Conditioners For Transitioning Hair
1. Best Paraben-Free: tgin Honey Miracle Hair Mask
Truly a blessing from the hair Gods, this honey miracle hair mask will help you transition smoothly into your beautiful curls. Enriched with nourishing ingredients including raw honey, olive oil, and jojoba oil, it provides moisture to your tresses while locking in shine and gloss. It contains vitamins A, D, and E, all of which help heal and repair hair strands from root to tip and prevent breakage. With no harmful additives like parabens, sulfates, petroleum, or artificial colors, it penetrates deep into the hair shaft and hydrates your hair, leaving it soft, silky, and manageable. Check out this video to explore a reviewer’s experience with the product for better insight.
Pros
- Enriched with raw honey, olive oil, and jojoba oil
- Contains vitamins A, D, and E
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Petroleum-free
- Cruelty-free
- No artificial colors
- Suitable for a dry, itchy scalp
- Suitable for colored hair
Cons
- May not reduce frizz
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product is so liked by shoppers that it has gained over 1,074 great reviews on Amazon.
2. Best For All Hair Types: Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair Deep Conditioning Hair Mask
The Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair Deep Conditioning Hair Mask fortifies damaged hair and helps prevent further damage. It is crafted with clinically proven repair technology that makes the hair stronger and healthier. This product’s unique combination of rosehip oil and vitamins repairs hair damaged by heat styling and other chemicals. It also restores the hair’s natural luster and suppleness while making them appear and feel healthier than ever before. It is scientifically proven to decrease hair breakage after two uses. It has algae extracts that provide nutrients, amino acids, antioxidants, and vitamins to nourish and strengthen hair while protecting your hair from free radical damage. The rosehip oil delivers vital fatty acids that are necessary for maintaining hair moisture and taming frizz.
Pros
- Sulfate-free
- Silicone-free
- Phthalates-free
- Paraben-free
DEA-free - Dye-free
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Gluten-free
- Suitable for all hair types
Cons
- None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has received 3,141 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.
Did You Know?3. Best For Dry And Damaged Hair: Creme Of Nature Argan Oil Intensive Conditioning Treatment
If your hair needs extra care, you can count on this conditioner. The active ingredient in this conditioner is Morrocan argan oil which contains Omega 9. It helps repair damaged hair follicles and works great for those with transitioning hair. This deep conditioning treatment also contains honey, aloe vera, and olive fruit oil, which remove frizz and ensure that your hair is left smooth and soft. This conditioner is well-suited for dry and damaged hair and is your solution to revitalize hair and provide moisture instantly. 100% free of sulfates and parabens, it is safe for colored hair. Watch this video for a thorough understanding of the product.
Pros
- Enriched with Morrocan argan oil and wheat protein
- Smoothens hair with honey, aloe vera, and olive fruit oil
- Offers frizz control
- Suitable for dry and damaged hair
- Suitable for colored hair
- Free of sulfates
- Free of parabens
Cons
- It has be left on for 10-15 minutes.
"This deep conditioner is great for dealing with dryness or coarseness. It softens and detangles my hair. It absorbs without leaving a greasy residue."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
There are more than 2,879 Amazon reviews attesting to the quality of the product and endorsing its value.
tgin Honey Miracle Hair Mask Best Paraben-Free | Briogeo Don't Despair Best For All Hair Types | Repair Deep Conditioning Hair Mask Best For Dry And Damaged Hair | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hair Type | Dry Hair,Curly Hair | All, Dry, Damaged | Dry-&-Damaged |
| Dimensions | 3.5 x 3.5 x 2.8 inches | 3 x 3 x 3 inches | 1 x 2 x 3 inches |
| Weight | 12.8 Ounces | 1.76 Ounces | 12.52 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 1,074 | 3,141 | 2,879 |
| Price | $10.79 | $124.0 | $4.88 |
4. Best Deep Conditioning: Aussie 3 Minute Miracle Moist Deep Conditioner
A miracle in a bottle, this praised formula will help you achieve soft, luscious curls in just 3 minutes while helping in hair loss prevention. Fortified with Australian sea kelp, aloe vera, and jojoba oil, getting a boost of hydration is no longer a struggle. It provides deep conditioning from root to tip and prevents breakage, and reduces frizz even in humid environments. With no traces of sulfates and parabens, this rich, creamy formula is suitable for dry and damaged hair. An added benefit is its luxurious fragrance derived from California orange, grapefruit, and lime. Check out this video detailing a tester’s experience of using this hair product.
Pros
- Fortified with aloe vera, seaweed extract, and jojoba oil
- Provides deep conditioning
- No sulfates
- No parabens
- Suitable for dry and damaged hair
- Luxurious scent
Cons
- May not suit people with oily hair and scalp
"This conditioner leaves my hair feeling soft and doesn't weigh it down. It has a decent smell that does not overwhelm me. I like that it glides smoothly and covers my entire hair."
5. Best Pre-Shampoo Conditioning: Camille Rose Algae Renew Deep Conditioner
If natural ingredients take priority on your list, you should consider this one. Made with shea butter, hemp, grapeseed, green tea, honey and more, this deep conditioner is all things nourishing and moisturizing. Packed with vitamin E, it provides a nurturing base for hair growth by shielding the lipid layer of the scalp. Thinning hair? No problem. This conditioner also contains algae as an active ingredient, which is rich in proteins and amino acids and fortifies hair, preventing it from thinning and breakage. The mango butter in this product ensures your hair never lacks hydration by locking in moisture with every wash. Another convenient benefit is that it can also be used as a pre-shampoo conditioning treatment.
Pros
- Enriched with shea butter, hemp, grapeseed, and more
- Packed with vitamin E
- Prevents hair thinning
- Mango butter provides moisture
- Can be used as a pre-shampoo conditioning treatment.
Cons
- Contains sulfates
6. Best For Natural Hair And Colored: SheaMoisture Deep Treatment Masque
It’s no secret that shea butter is a phenomenal ingredient that moisturizes and conditions dry and damaged hair. It is formulated with raw shea butter that has proven efficacy in preserving the scalp’s lipid layer and transforming dry, damaged, and dull hair into healthy, luscious locks. Other botanical ingredients like castor seed oil and olive oil moisturize the hair and repair the damage caused due to straightening, braiding, curling, etc. Free from harsh chemicals like parabens, sulfates, silicones, phthalates, mineral oils, and petroleum, it is safe for natural hair, colored, and transitioning hair.
Pros
- Formulated with raw shea butter
- Paraben-free
- Silicone-free
- Phthalate-free
- Free of mineral oils
- Petroleum-free
- Cruelty-free
- Ethically traded, sustainably produced ingredients
- Suitable for dry hair
Cons
- May not work for certain types of thick and curly hair like 3A curls
- May not provide enough moisture for thick and overly damaged hair
7. Best All-Natural: Alikay Naturals Deep Conditioner
Pamper your hair with botanical extracts of honey and sage. This nutrient rich conditioner penetrates deep into the scalp and nourishes the cuticles. While honey promotes hair growth and binds in the moisture, the sage powder reduces thinning by fortifying the hair roots. The powerful combination of aloe vera juice, olive oil, silk amino acids, rice bran oil, and eucalyptus leaf oil ensure that hair is left looking more healthier, youthful and radiant. 100% natural and 90% organic, it is suitable for all hair types.
Pros
- 100% natural ingredients
- 90% organic ingredients
- Reduces thinning
- Paraben-free
- Silicone-free
- Phthalate-free
- Formaldehyde-free
Cons
- The scent maybe overpowering
StyleCraze Says8. Best Moisturizing: EDEN BodyWorks Coconut Shea Hair Masque Treatment
Last on our list is the hair masque treatment from EDEN BodyWorks. With an unbeatable combination of nourishing ingredients like shea butter and coconut oil, it moisturizes the hair and prevents breakage. Enriched with aloe vera leaf juice, a natural conditioner, leaves the hair looking shiner with a silky gloss. Considered as one of the best deep conditioners for transitioning hair, it contains ingredients like cetrimonium chloride which improves hair texture, strengthens the tresses, helps in moisture retention, and reduces frizz. A great addition to your hair care regime, this will have you flaunting your glossy hair with a sleek finish in no time!
Pros
- Provides moisture and prevents breakage
- Reduces frizz
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
Cons
- The formula may be slippery
"This deep conditioner rejuvenates my thick and curly hair. It defines twist-outs and keeps my hair soft without stiffness. It has a heavy consistency but it absorbs without any greasiness."
Now that you’ve taken a look at the eight best deep conditioners for transitioning hair, learn more on how to pick up the right kind of deep conditioner to include in your hair care regimen, with the help of our buying guide.
How To Select A Deep Conditioner For Transitioning Hair?
There are many things one must consider when buying a conditioner for transitioning hair. Here are a few tips you should keep in mind to improve your hair elasticity and overall hair health:
- Ingredients
While picking out a good-quality deep conditioner for your transitioning hair, it is crucial to look at the ingredient list. While harmful chemicals such as sulfates, parabens, and petroleum are a big no-no, natural, moisturizing ingredients are great for reviving damaged, transitioning hair. Key ingredients like raw shea butter tackle dried and damaged transitioning hair, whereas argan oil contains Omega-3 repairs damaged hair follicles. So look for these to help soften, nourish, and add curl definition to your transitioning hair.
- Sebum production
Sebum is a natural oil that is produced by your glands. If there is excess sebum production, it can lead to hair looking oily and greasy. You need to pick a conditioner that compliments and works with your hair. If your hair tends to be more oily and greasy due to the constant use of conditioners, masks, oils, and hair butter, we recommend you clarify your hair. Clarifying is a process where you use a purifying shampoo and conditioner to remove extra product buildup with either and invest in a conditioner with hydrolyzed protein. On the other hand, if your hair requires less hydration and tends to be dry, use a deep conditioning mask or conditioner to help your hair get the moisture it needs.
- Need for protein
Hair usually falls into 2 categories – protein-rich and protein deficit. If your hair is in the former category, it is likely to feel spongy and soft, without definition. Over-processed tresses will lead you to this type of hair, and we suggest you go for a protein treatment like a protein-rich conditioner. This conditioner contains hydrolyzed soy protein, hydrolyzed wheat protein, silk amino acids, collagen, and keratin, all of which work towards rebalancing the moisture content in your hair. If you fall in the former category, i.e., protein-deficit, your hair is likely to be dry, brittle, and damaged because you might be protein-sensitive. This type of hair means that too much protein isn’t good for you, and you need to steer away from strengthening conditioners and move towards one that provides ample moisture and hydration. In such a case, you can choose a protein-free deep conditioner. Lindsay Loo, a cosmetologist, says, “Too much of protein can cause breakage and result in dull lifeless hair.”
How often should you deep condition transitioning hair?
The frequency of deep conditioning is different from person to person, and their specific hair conditions and concerns. If you have thick, coarse hair dry and lacks moisture, you should stick to it once a week for healthy hair. Otherwise, most people use a relaxed hair deep conditioner 2-4 times a month.
Chemically-treated or bleached hair transitioning back to its natural state requires extra attention and care. Shackled by hair concerns such as split ends, dry and brittle hair, an excellent deep conditioner is the only escape. Deep conditioners are breakthrough formulas that help revive your hair and aid this transformation without losing out on natural hair’s texture or vibrancy. Used effectively, they can lock the moisture in and provide the hydration your hair needs and deserves. Not only this, but they also have a significant impact on natural curl patterns and make sure the newly growing curls are nourished from the roots to the tips, so that you can have luscious curls and stronger hair after every wash.
The Bottom Line
Transitioning is a chemical process, just like hair smoothing. This chemical procedure can damage your hair and cause split ends unless done with utmost care. The deep conditioner penetrates deep into the hair follicles to keep the hair healthy, hydrated, and prevent them from further damage. They help in improving the hair growth and texture of your hair. For instance, the tgin Honey Miracle Hair Mask provides deep hydration making it manageable whereas the Aussie 3 Minute Miracle Moist Deep Conditioner prevents breakage and frizzy hair,, and the SheaMoisture Deep Treatment Masque uses natural ingredients to nourish and repair damaged hair. These conditioners are paraben-free, cruelty-free, and are free of mineral oils. However, some products might not suit all hair types. Consider your scalp’s sebum production levels, need for protein, and the active ingredients infused in the formula before investing in a deep conditioner. You may side with expert-recommended formulations to prevent the risk of allergies and get the best benefit. Always test the product you choose on a section of your hair to check for its suitability before incorporating it into your routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you shampoo after deep conditioning transitioning hair?
No. Just rinse out the hair without shampooing. If you have an oily scalp and hair that tends to get greasy, you may have to use mild shampoo to wash off the deep conditioner.
Is a hair mask the same as a deep conditioner for transitioning hair?
No, hair masks offer much more nourishment and hydration than deep conditioners.
How do you condition transitioning hair?
Shampoo your hair and divide it into sections, then apply conditioner to each of these sections and comb through for equal distribution through the strands. Wash it off using water after a while.
How do you moisturize transitioning hair?
Wash your hair less if it is transitioning. This helps prevent dehydration of the strands. Use a nourishing shampoo and conditioner each wash day. Deep condition once a week for the best results. You can also use leave-in products that moisturize the strands.
How do you stop your hair from breaking when transitioning?
Deep condition your hair and use protein formulas once in a while. Avoid styling your hair too much to prevent hair breakage.
What products should I use on my transitioning hair?
Include a nourishing shampoo and conditioner, a detangling gel or cream, a deep conditioner, a leave-in product, and strengthening hair masks in your transitioning hair care routine.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Kirtana Divakar, the author of this article, is a haircare enthusiast. She likes to stay updated when it comes to haircare solutions. To help her readers purchase the best deep conditioners for transitioning hair, she conducted thorough research and curated a comprehensive list of the best-rated products. These products are safe for the hair and helps prevent damage.
Read full bio of Lindsay Loo
Read full bio of Kirtana Divakar
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Read full bio of Swathi E
Community Experiences
Join the conversation and become a part of our empowering community! Share your stories, experiences, and insights to connect with other beauty, lifestyle, and health enthusiasts.