A Stylist Says These 13 Deep Conditioners Perform Major Witchcraft on Your Hair

best-deep-conditioners-309650-1695677152707-main

(Image credit: @amagodson_a)

The topic of deep conditioners is a favorite among the Who What Wear beauty team. Although we all have different hair types and lengths, there's nothing we love more than gushing about our new favorite formulas in our Slack channel. My own hair journey hasn't been without its challenges, but I now have a handful of conditioning formulas I absolutely swear by for thick, curly hair and will tell anyone who will listen how good they are. 

For those with a similar hair type, you're going to want to keep reading below. I'm sharing my favorites along with recommendations for all hair types from NYC hairstylist and salon owner Mahogany Grace.

What to Look for in a Deep Conditioner

best-deep-conditioners-309650-1695676905292-main

(Image credit: @anthonyholguin)

When shopping for a deep conditioner for your hair, Grace says there are some key things you need to keep in mind. Not only should you consider your hair type, but you should also know how to apply your mask to get the best results. "To make an informed choice on a deep conditioner, it’s important to pinpoint [your] specific hair concerns," she explains. "Deep conditioners are highly effective in revitalizing dry and lackluster hair, providing essential moisture to dull curls and mending damage caused by heat, coloring, and chemical treatments. Consistency is crucial for all hair types to maintain hair health. Using steam, covering the treatment with a plastic cap, and allowing the conditioner ample time to penetrate the hair cuticle ensures effective absorption into the shaft."

As for picking the right one for you, Grace says, "When selecting the right deep conditioner for your hair concerns, consider various ingredients based on your hair's needs. Damaged, textured (curly and wavy), colored, and chemically treated hair often benefit from moisture and hydration, making ingredients like butters, various oils, aloe vera, and honey highly effective. For strengthening deep conditioners, seek ingredients such as amino acids, keratin, and hydrolyzed proteins. Normal to fine hair can also benefit from maintenance or lightweight repair with deep conditioners. Concentrating on the lower portion of the hair, reducing the treatment time, and thoroughly rinsing can prevent a heavy, greasy feel. These practices will [also] help maintain your hair's best pH level."

Take a peek at Grace's deep conditioner recommendations for each hair type below.

Best Overall: Olaplex No. 3 Repair Perfector

Best Drugstore: Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Strengthening Hair Masque

Best for Fine Hair: Shu Uemura Muroto Volume Lightweight Care Treatment for Fine Hair

Best for Thick Hair: Briogeo Don't Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Hair Mask

Best for Curly and Coily Hair: Ouidad Coil Infusion Triple Threat Deep Conditioner

Best for Straight Hair: Moroccanoil Weightless Hydrating Mask

Best for Wavy Hair: Carol's Daughter Monoi Repairing Hair Mask

Best for Dry Hair: Philip Kingsley Elasticizer Deep Conditioning Treatment

Best for Damaged Hair: Oribe Signature Hair Mask

Best for Color-Treated Hair: L'Oréal Paris 

More Deep Conditioning Masks Grace Recommends

Explore More:
Associate Beauty Editor

Shawna Hudson is a beauty, wellness, lifestyle, and travel writer with over 10 years of experience. She graduated from California State University, Fullerton, with a degree in journalism and has written for other publications such as Bustle, The Zoe Report, Byrdie, Elite Daily, and more. She is currently a beauty writer at Who What Wear and hopes to continue feeding her (completely out-of-control) beauty obsession as long as she can. Stay up to date on her latest finds on Instagram @shawnasimonee.