{"id":1697549,"date":"2025-12-31T12:10:00","date_gmt":"2025-12-31T09:10:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1697549"},"modified":"2025-12-31T12:10:00","modified_gmt":"2025-12-31T09:10:00","slug":"why-you-should-never-skip-conditioner","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1697549","title":{"rendered":"Why You Should Never Skip Conditioner"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><main id=\"main_1-0\" class=\"comp main layout-body--continuous-scroll mntl-block\" data-tracking-container=\"true\"><\/p>\n<article id=\"beauty-article--sc_1-0\" class=\"comp beauty-article--sc beauty-article mntl-article mntl-article--three-column sc-ad-container\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div class=\"loc article-header\">\n<div id=\"article-header_1-0\" class=\"comp article-header mntl-block article-top\">\n<h1 id=\"article-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp article-heading mntl-text-block\">Why You Should Never Skip Conditioner<\/h1>\n<p id=\"article-subheading_1-0\" class=\"comp article-subheading mntl-text-block\">It does more than you think.<\/p>\n<div id=\"article-meta_1-0\" class=\"comp article-meta mntl-article-meta mntl-block\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div id=\"bylines_1-0\" class=\"comp bylines beauty-bylines mntl-bylines\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__group_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__group mntl-block mntl-bylines__group--author\">\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__item_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__item mntl-attribution__item mntl-attribution__item--has-date\"><span class=\"mntl-attribution__item-descriptor\">By<\/span><\/p>\n<div data-tooltip=\"Dani is New York-based beauty writer and editor. Her work has been featured in Allure, Elle, InStyle, Well + Good, and more.\" data-inline-tooltip=\"true\"> Dani Hardman<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip mntl-tooltip mntl-group\">\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__top \">\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__image-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" alt=\"Danielle Cohen\" class=\"lazyload mntl-author-tooltip__image mntl-image universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/byrdieimagesize-130b5be39471413aa98b61be592acaa3-4.webp\" title=\"byrdieimagesize-130b5be39471413aa98b61be592acaa3-4\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/byrdieimagesize-130b5be39471413aa98b61be592acaa3-4.webp\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-author-tooltip__image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"Danielle Cohen\" title=\"byrdieimagesize-130b5be39471413aa98b61be592acaa3-4\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip__name_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip__name mntl-attribution__item \">\nDani Hardman\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip__social-nav_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip__social-nav beauty-social-nav mntl-social-nav social-nav--tooltip\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<ul class=\"social-nav__list\">\n<li class=\"social-nav__item social-nav__item--instagram\">\n<li class=\"social-nav__item social-nav__item--linkedin\"><\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bio\">\nDani is New York-based beauty writer and editor. Her work has been featured in Allure, Elle, InStyle, Well + Good, and more.\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bottom\">\nByrdie&#8217;s Editorial Guidelines\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-attribution__item-date\">Published on December 31, 2025 07:10AM<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__group_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__group mntl-block mntl-bylines__group--beauty_wellness_reviewer\">\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__item_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__item mntl-attribution__item \"><span class=\"mntl-attribution__item-descriptor\">Reviewed by<\/span><\/p>\n<div data-tooltip='Sophia Emmanuel is an IAT-certified trichologist and licensed cosmetologist based in New York.\u00a0She owns and operates the &lt;a href=\"https:\/\/crownworthy.com\/\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"externalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\"&gt;Crown Worthy&lt;\/a&gt; beauty salon in New York City.\u00a0\u00a0' data-inline-tooltip=\"true\"> Sophia Emmanuel<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip mntl-tooltip mntl-group\">\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__top \">\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__image-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" alt=\"Sophia Emmanuel\" class=\"lazyload mntl-author-tooltip__image mntl-image universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/sophiaemmanuelbio-9c9762ff738b4d6485287f37b9f6a821-2.webp\" title=\"sophiaemmanuelbio-9c9762ff738b4d6485287f37b9f6a821-2\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/sophiaemmanuelbio-9c9762ff738b4d6485287f37b9f6a821-2.webp\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-author-tooltip__image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"Sophia Emmanuel\" title=\"sophiaemmanuelbio-9c9762ff738b4d6485287f37b9f6a821-2\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip__name_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip__name mntl-attribution__item \"><span class=\"mntl-attribution__item-descriptor\">Reviewed by<\/span><br \/>\nSophia Emmanuel\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bio\">\nSophia Emmanuel is an IAT-certified trichologist and licensed cosmetologist based in New York.\u00a0She owns and operates the Crown Worthy beauty salon in New York City.\u00a0\u00a0\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bottom\">\nAbout Byrdie&#8217;s Beauty &amp; Wellness Board\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-attribution__item-postscript\">Trichologist<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc article-left-rail\">\n<div id=\"beauty-sticky-toc_1-0\" class=\"comp beauty-sticky-toc mntl-block js-sticky-container sticky-toc__wrapper\">\n<div id=\"sticky-toc_1-0\" class=\"comp sticky-toc mntl-universal-sticky-toc mntl-sticky-toc mntl-block sticky-toc-widget\" data-desktop-bp=\"70em\">\n<div id=\"toc-wrapper_1-0\" class=\"comp toc-wrapper mntl-toc mntl-block\" data-chop-mobile=\"true\" data-offset=\"60\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__inner_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__inner mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__heading mntl-block js-toc-toggle\"><span id=\"mntl-toc__heading-text_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__heading-text mntl-text-block\">In This Article<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-toc-toggle_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc-toggle mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc-toggle__btn_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc-toggle__btn mntl-text-block js-mntl-toc-toggle text-label-300\" data-click-tracked=\"true\" data-collapsed-text=\"View All\" data-expanded-text=\"View Less\">View All<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__mobile-toggle_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__mobile-toggle mntl-block js-sticky-toggle\"><span id=\"mntl-toc__heading-text_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__heading-text mntl-text-block\">In This Article<\/span><\/div>\n<ul id=\"mntl-toc__list_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list mntl-toc__list-heading expert-content text-utility-300\">\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">What Is the Purpose of Conditioner?<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Can I Skip Conditioner?<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Who Should Never Skip Conditioner?<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Alternatives to Conditioner<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">The Final Takeaway<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_6-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_6-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc article-content\">\n<div id=\"article__broad-video-jw_1-0\" class=\"comp article__broad-video-jw mntl-jwplayer-broad mntl-block is-hidden\" data-pixel-depth=\"100\">\n<div id=\"mntl-jwplayer-broad__title_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-jwplayer-broad__title mntl-block\"><button id=\"mntl-jwplayer-broad__title-icon--close_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-jwplayer-broad__title-icon--close mntl-block text-label-100\" data-click-tracked=\"false\"><span id=\"mntl-text-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-text-block\">Close<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-block article__body right-rail\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-universal-primary-image_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-universal-primary-image primary-image\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div class=\"primary-image__media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/wet-hair-2-ad5c59d95ef445689e073deb2d116eb9-1.webp\" width=\"1138\" height=\"853\" alt=\"Closeup of long wavy hair lying against a surface\" class=\" primary-image__image mntl-primary-image--blurry\" title=\"wet-hair-2-ad5c59d95ef445689e073deb2d116eb9-1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/wet-hair-2-ad5c59d95ef445689e073deb2d116eb9-1.webp\" width=\"1138\" height=\"853\" class=\"loaded primary-img--noscript primary-image__image mntl-primary-image--blurry\" alt=\"Closeup of long wavy hair lying against a surface\" title=\"wet-hair-2-ad5c59d95ef445689e073deb2d116eb9-1\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"primary-image__figcap_1-0\" class=\"comp primary-image__figcap mntl-figure-caption figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Death to Stock<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-page_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-page mntl-block\" data-sc-sticky-offset=\"125\" data-sc-ad-label-height=\"16\" data-sc-ad-track-spacing=\"100\" data-sc-min-track-height=\"250\" data-sc-max-track-height=\"600\" data-sc-breakpoint=\"50em\" data-sc-load-immediate=\"5\" data-sc-content-positions=\"[1, 1250, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1]\" data-bind-scroll-on-start=\"true\">\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-callout--finalverdict beauty-sc-block-callout mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-finalverdict\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Key Takeaways<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<ul>\n<li>Conditioner helps maintain pH balance, reduce breakage, and protect hair cuticles, which are all crucial for a healthy scalp and strong hair.<\/li>\n<li>People with wavy, curly, coarse, or gray hair should always use conditioner after shampooing for optimal hair health.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> With hair so oily I can slick it back sans product just two days post-wash, I&#8217;ve spent my fair share of time questioning the merits of conditioner. I cringe when I see phrases like &#8220;deeply hydrating,&#8221; &#8220;moisture repairing,&#8221; and &#8220;shine inducing&#8221; on my haircare labels, and I am in an eternal search for the world&#8217;s greatest dry shampoo. If we&#8217;re being completely honest, I&#8217;ve even tried cutting conditioner <em>out<\/em> of my haircare routine a few times.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> One of those anti-conditioner moments came early in my beauty career, way back in 2018. I happened to be meeting with a particular haircare superstar and when I confessed about my current haircare routine (or lack thereof), he made me swear right then and there I&#8217;d never skip conditioner again.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_6-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> And while I&#8217;ve stuck by my promise in the years since (and my oil production has definitely improved), I still had a lot of lingering questions about the point of conditioner altogether. Luckily, a few of my favorite hair experts\u2014trichologist William Gaunitz, hairstylist Kristin Ess, and hair expert Gaby Longsworth, Ph.D.\u2014agreed to answer my many, many questions. <strong>Read on for why conditioner is a must, no matter how much you might be tempted to skip.<\/strong><\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_8-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-callout--meetourexpert beauty-sc-block-callout mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-meetourexpert\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Meet the Experts<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<ul>\n<li>William Gaunitz is a certified trichologist and the founder of Advanced Trichology.<\/li>\n<li>Kristin Ess is a celebrity hairstylist and colorist, as well as the founder of Kristin Ess Hair.<\/li>\n<li>Gaby Longsworth, Ph.D., is a scientist and hair expert. She\u2019s the owner of\u00a0Absolutely Everything Curly\u00a0and received her Hair Practitioner Certificate through the International Association of Trichologists.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_9-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> What Is the Purpose of Conditioner? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_10-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> To keep it simple, Gaunitz says the purpose of conditioner is to hydrate the hair and coat the cuticle, which helps provide moisture and shine to the keratin that makes up the hair shaft. At a glance, conditioner benefits include:\n<\/p>\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_12-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<li>Moisturizes and softens hair<\/li>\n<li>Balances scalp and hair pH<\/li>\n<li>Detangles knots and tangles<\/li>\n<li>Protects and coats the hair cuticle<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_14-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> To keep it not so simple, we need to talk about the pH of the hair and scalp to really explain the purpose of conditioner. According to Longsworth, a healthy scalp should have a pH of around 4.5 to 5.5, and a healthy hair shaft should have a pH of about 4. That&#8217;s always the goal. (The pH scale ranges from 0, the most acidic, to 14, the most basic; 7 is neutral).\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_16-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Certain products and ingredients can disrupt that preferred pH range. As she explains, every hair product you use has either an acidic, neutral, or alkaline pH, and the hair reacts to that pH by raising or tightening the cuticle layer. Shampoos are typically somewhere on the higher side of the acidic range all the way up to neutral, with pH ranges of around 6 to 7 (this does not include sulfated shampoos, which often have higher pH ranges). Conditioners are even more acidic with pH ranges between about 4 and 6, which help bring scalp and hair shaft pH levels back to that ideal range.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_18-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> And today&#8217;s conditioners do a lot more than just that, adds Ess. &#8220;With all the advances in haircare, some conditioners can add significant shine, strengthen bonds in the hair, temporarily seal split ends, protect from heat, improve dandruff, add color, stimulate the scalp\u2014the list goes on and on,&#8221; she says. &#8220;Basically if you have a hair issue right now, it&#8217;s highly likely that there&#8217;s a conditioner on the market that can help in some way.&#8221;<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_20-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Can I Skip Conditioner? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_21-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> All three experts agree: Conditioner is pretty much always a good idea. While Gaunitz notes that you can <em>theoretically<\/em> skip conditioner if you want, over time it will break down the firm layer of the cuticle and create an even more unmanageable hair situation. To sum up all three experts&#8217; opinions, he says that &#8220;for the average person, conditioner should be mandatory.&#8221;\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_23-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> &#8220;If you feel the need to skip conditioner, you might be using the wrong one,&#8221; Ess says, explaining that someone with finer hair, for example, might be tempted to skip conditioner to avoid hair feeling &#8220;too heavy.&#8221; Rather than omitting the step altogether, she suggests switching to a lighter-weight conditioner.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_25-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Who Should Never Skip Conditioner? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_26-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Depending on hair type, it can be even more critical for some people to use conditioner. Gaunitz notes that any with a wave, curl, coarseness, or gray color to their hair (even if it&#8217;s just the slightest amount) should use conditioner after every single shampooing.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_28-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> &#8220;The cuticle of the hair resembles the scales of a fish,&#8221; he explains. &#8220;When you shampoo your hair, it will dry out the edges of those scales. You must rehydrate the edges and the exterior of the cuticle to help create strength, durability, and shine.&#8221;\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_30-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> As an oily scalped human, I&#8217;ve considered skipping on conditioner more than one time\u2014I can&#8217;t possibly need to add <em>more<\/em> shine and moisture to my hair, can I? Apparently I can. While people with very oily or very healthy straight hair may be able to skip conditioner every so often, it&#8217;s still not recommended since even a small amount can help reset hair and scalp pH, says Longsworth. And, as she points out, conditioner is rinsed out anyway, so it&#8217;s not going to do all that much in terms of increasing oil production.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_32-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Alternatives to Conditioner <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_33-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> While all three experts agree conditioner is almost always a good idea, there are a few, very specific instances in which one might be able to skip conditioner, or rather swap it out for an alternative.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_35-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Folks who use a co-wash instead of shampoo can actually skip conditioner since too much moisture can be detrimental to hair. The same goes for those using a conditioning wash, says Longsworth. She also notes that you can likely skip conditioner when using a deep conditioner or conditioning hair mask, as they&#8217;re typically formulated at a similar low pH. When in doubt, check the product&#8217;s instructions.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_37-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Other than that, Gaunitz says there&#8217;s really no reason to cut out conditioner from your routine. In fact, doing so can actually contribute to damage.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_39-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> The Final Takeaway <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_40-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Ess puts it best: &#8220;It really is beneficial to the overall health of the hair to condition after you shampoo\u2014in my personal opinion, you should never skip conditioner.&#8221; Conditioning isn&#8217;t just about adding shine and moisture, it&#8217;s an imperative step in restoring hair and scalp pH as well as helping to rehydrate, strengthen, and protect the hair.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_42-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> And she makes another great point, one that bears repeating: If you feel the need to skip conditioner, consider the <em>type<\/em> of conditioner you&#8217;re using and switch to something that more closely aligns with your hair&#8217;s needs.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_44-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> As for a TLDR, it&#8217;s this simple: Use the conditioner.\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_46-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-faq--expanded beauty-sc-block-faq mntl-sc-block-faq mntl-block is-expanded\">\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-faq__title_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-faq__title mntl-text-block\">FAQ<\/div>\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block-faq__content_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-faq__content mntl-accordion \" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<li class=\"accordion__item js-accordion-item is-active\" data-ordinal=\"1\">\n<div class=\"accordion__header js-accordion-trigger\" id=\"mntl-accordion__item_1-0-section-0\"><span class=\"accordion__title\">Can you skip conditioner?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion__body\">\n<div id=\"mntl-accordion__content_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-accordion__content\">\n<div class=\"faq-accordion__item-answer\">\n<p>Anyone <em>can<\/em> skip conditioner, but that doesn&#8217;t mean they should. All three experts we talked to agree that using conditioner is almost always a good idea. So yes you <em>can<\/em> skip it, but it&#8217;s not a good idea.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"accordion__item js-accordion-item is-active\" data-ordinal=\"2\">\n<div class=\"accordion__header js-accordion-trigger\" id=\"mntl-accordion__item_2-0-section-1\"><span class=\"accordion__title\">What does skipping conditioner do?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion__body\">\n<div id=\"mntl-accordion__content_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-accordion__content\">\n<div class=\"faq-accordion__item-answer\">\n<p>Skipping conditioner robs your hair of the opportunity to rehydrate, add strength, and have extra protection. Conditioner helps to restore your hair and scalp pH and some also add shine, offer heat protection, help protect your color, and even stimulate your scalp. In most hair situations, conditioner can help.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc article-post-content\">\n<div id=\"beauty-breadcrumbs--chips_1-0\" class=\"comp beauty-breadcrumbs--chips mntl-universal-breadcrumbs--chips mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-breadcrumbs__read-more_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-breadcrumbs__read-more mntl-text-block text-title-100\">Read more:<\/div>\n<ul id=\"mntl-universal-breadcrumbs_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-universal-breadcrumbs mntl-block text-label-300 breadcrumbs\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<li id=\"mntl-breadcrumbs__item_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-breadcrumbs__item mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Hair<\/span><\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-breadcrumbs__item_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-breadcrumbs__item mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Haircare<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<div id=\"recirc_1-0\" class=\"comp recirc mntl-block\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<h2 id=\"recirc__heading_1-0\" class=\"comp recirc__heading mntl-text-block\">Related Stories<\/h2>\n<ul id=\"card-list-1_1-0\" class=\"comp card-list-1 card-list mntl-block l-container\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<li id=\"card-list__item_1-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"Shampoos being tested on different hair types\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/best-shampoos-tout-recirc-0ecb4f7e20f2478d9d67f1dec5a0e6a7-7.webp\" title=\"best-shampoos-tout-recirc-0ecb4f7e20f2478d9d67f1dec5a0e6a7-7\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" 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src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/byr-hair-growth-masks-conditioners-tout-recirc-17135a35903545afb6710bca3ee3abb3-8.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"A person before and after using the Kevin Murphy Young Again Masque\" title=\"byr-hair-growth-masks-conditioners-tout-recirc-17135a35903545afb6710bca3ee3abb3-8\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">The 12 Best Hair Growth Masks &amp; Conditioners for Your Longest, Healthiest Hair Yet<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_12-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"A person's hair before and after using the Hally Fluffy G Totally Clean Foaming Hair Gloss\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/byr-best-hair-glosses-tout-recirc-ee08d1839d264daab62d7538c4f88449-7.webp\" title=\"byr-best-hair-glosses-tout-recirc-ee08d1839d264daab62d7538c4f88449-7\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/byr-best-hair-glosses-tout-recirc-ee08d1839d264daab62d7538c4f88449-7.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"A person's hair before and after using the Hally Fluffy G Totally Clean Foaming Hair Gloss\" title=\"byr-best-hair-glosses-tout-recirc-ee08d1839d264daab62d7538c4f88449-7\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">10 Best Hair Glosses for Shiny, Healthier-Looking Hair, After 8 Weeks of Testing<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_13-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"A hand holding a pump bottle partially filled with liquid soap or shampoo against a white background\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/shampoo-1-806ff350bfaf49a5ba0c632183b7dd3a-2.webp\" title=\"shampoo-1-806ff350bfaf49a5ba0c632183b7dd3a-2\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/shampoo-1-806ff350bfaf49a5ba0c632183b7dd3a-2.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"A hand holding a pump bottle partially filled with liquid soap or shampoo against a white background\" title=\"shampoo-1-806ff350bfaf49a5ba0c632183b7dd3a-2\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">The Shampoo in Your Shower May Past Its Prime\u2014Here&#8217;s How to Tell When It&#8217;s Expired<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_14-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"Two women demonstrating root touchup products on their hair with one applying a liquid and the other using a stick application\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/byr-best-root-touch-up-products-tout-recirc-1a57c7ed81dd4ba3bb49865ba29bff32-2.webp\" title=\"byr-best-root-touch-up-products-tout-recirc-1a57c7ed81dd4ba3bb49865ba29bff32-2\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/byr-best-root-touch-up-products-tout-recirc-1a57c7ed81dd4ba3bb49865ba29bff32-2.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"Two women demonstrating root touchup products on their hair with one applying a liquid and the other using a stick application\" title=\"byr-best-root-touch-up-products-tout-recirc-1a57c7ed81dd4ba3bb49865ba29bff32-2\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">The 8 Best Root Touch-Up Products for Seamlessly Concealing Grays and Regrowth<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_15-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"A woman with curly hair touching her head\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/shea-butter-for-hair-2-a2b5c02afcc14cc9893ce7c74411e1f6-1.webp\" title=\"shea-butter-for-hair-2-a2b5c02afcc14cc9893ce7c74411e1f6-1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/shea-butter-for-hair-2-a2b5c02afcc14cc9893ce7c74411e1f6-1.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"A woman with curly hair touching her head\" title=\"shea-butter-for-hair-2-a2b5c02afcc14cc9893ce7c74411e1f6-1\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">Shea Butter Has Tons of Benefits for Your Hair\u2014And, You Can Make Your Own at Home<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_16-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"A womans before and after comparison showing hair transformation after using hair care products the second image includes her holding a bottle\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/byr-best-shampoos-and-conditioners-for-dry-hair-tout-recirc-5b2695e5564c4dafb1f2198691d68949.webp\" title=\"byr-best-shampoos-and-conditioners-for-dry-hair-tout-recirc-5b2695e5564c4dafb1f2198691d68949\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/byr-best-shampoos-and-conditioners-for-dry-hair-tout-recirc-5b2695e5564c4dafb1f2198691d68949.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"A womans before and after comparison showing hair transformation after using hair care products the second image includes her holding a bottle\" title=\"byr-best-shampoos-and-conditioners-for-dry-hair-tout-recirc-5b2695e5564c4dafb1f2198691d68949\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">The 10 Best Shampoos and Conditioners for Dry Hair, Approved by Testers and Hairstylists<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<p><\/main><\/p>\n<article id=\"beauty-article--sc_1-0\" class=\"comp beauty-article--sc beauty-article mntl-article mntl-article--three-column sc-ad-container\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div class=\"loc article-header\">\n<div id=\"article-header_1-0\" class=\"comp article-header mntl-block article-top\">\n<h1 id=\"article-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp article-heading mntl-text-block\">Why You Should Never Skip Conditioner<\/h1>\n<p id=\"article-subheading_1-0\" class=\"comp article-subheading mntl-text-block\">It does more than you think.<\/p>\n<div id=\"article-meta_1-0\" class=\"comp article-meta mntl-article-meta mntl-block\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div id=\"bylines_1-0\" class=\"comp bylines beauty-bylines mntl-bylines\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__group_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__group mntl-block mntl-bylines__group--author\">\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__item_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__item mntl-attribution__item mntl-attribution__item--has-date\"><span class=\"mntl-attribution__item-descriptor\">By<\/span><\/p>\n<div data-tooltip=\"Dani is New York-based beauty writer and editor. Her work has been featured in Allure, Elle, InStyle, Well + Good, and more.\" data-inline-tooltip=\"true\"> Dani Hardman<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip mntl-tooltip mntl-group\">\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__top \">\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__image-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" alt=\"Danielle Cohen\" class=\"lazyload mntl-author-tooltip__image mntl-image universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/byrdieimagesize-130b5be39471413aa98b61be592acaa3-4.webp\" title=\"byrdieimagesize-130b5be39471413aa98b61be592acaa3-4\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/byrdieimagesize-130b5be39471413aa98b61be592acaa3-4.webp\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-author-tooltip__image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"Danielle Cohen\" title=\"byrdieimagesize-130b5be39471413aa98b61be592acaa3-4\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip__name_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip__name mntl-attribution__item \">\nDani Hardman\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip__social-nav_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip__social-nav beauty-social-nav mntl-social-nav social-nav--tooltip\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<ul class=\"social-nav__list\">\n<li class=\"social-nav__item social-nav__item--instagram\">\n<li class=\"social-nav__item social-nav__item--linkedin\"><\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bio\">\nDani is New York-based beauty writer and editor. Her work has been featured in Allure, Elle, InStyle, Well + Good, and more.\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bottom\">\nByrdie&#8217;s Editorial Guidelines\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-attribution__item-date\">Published on December 31, 2025 07:10AM<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__group_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__group mntl-block mntl-bylines__group--beauty_wellness_reviewer\">\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__item_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__item mntl-attribution__item \"><span class=\"mntl-attribution__item-descriptor\">Reviewed by<\/span><\/p>\n<div data-tooltip='Sophia Emmanuel is an IAT-certified trichologist and licensed cosmetologist based in New York.\u00a0She owns and operates the &lt;a href=\"https:\/\/crownworthy.com\/\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"externalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\"&gt;Crown Worthy&lt;\/a&gt; beauty salon in New York City.\u00a0\u00a0' data-inline-tooltip=\"true\"> Sophia Emmanuel<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip mntl-tooltip mntl-group\">\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__top \">\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__image-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" alt=\"Sophia Emmanuel\" class=\"lazyload mntl-author-tooltip__image mntl-image universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/sophiaemmanuelbio-9c9762ff738b4d6485287f37b9f6a821-2.webp\" title=\"sophiaemmanuelbio-9c9762ff738b4d6485287f37b9f6a821-2\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/sophiaemmanuelbio-9c9762ff738b4d6485287f37b9f6a821-2.webp\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-author-tooltip__image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"Sophia Emmanuel\" title=\"sophiaemmanuelbio-9c9762ff738b4d6485287f37b9f6a821-2\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip__name_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip__name mntl-attribution__item \"><span class=\"mntl-attribution__item-descriptor\">Reviewed by<\/span><br \/>\nSophia Emmanuel\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bio\">\nSophia Emmanuel is an IAT-certified trichologist and licensed cosmetologist based in New York.\u00a0She owns and operates the Crown Worthy beauty salon in New York City.\u00a0\u00a0\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bottom\">\nAbout Byrdie&#8217;s Beauty &amp; Wellness Board\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-attribution__item-postscript\">Trichologist<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc article-left-rail\">\n<div id=\"beauty-sticky-toc_1-0\" class=\"comp beauty-sticky-toc mntl-block js-sticky-container sticky-toc__wrapper\">\n<div id=\"sticky-toc_1-0\" class=\"comp sticky-toc mntl-universal-sticky-toc mntl-sticky-toc mntl-block sticky-toc-widget\" data-desktop-bp=\"70em\">\n<div id=\"toc-wrapper_1-0\" class=\"comp toc-wrapper mntl-toc mntl-block\" data-chop-mobile=\"true\" data-offset=\"60\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__inner_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__inner mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__heading mntl-block js-toc-toggle\"><span id=\"mntl-toc__heading-text_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__heading-text mntl-text-block\">In This Article<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-toc-toggle_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc-toggle mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc-toggle__btn_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc-toggle__btn mntl-text-block js-mntl-toc-toggle text-label-300\" data-click-tracked=\"true\" data-collapsed-text=\"View All\" data-expanded-text=\"View Less\">View All<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__mobile-toggle_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__mobile-toggle mntl-block js-sticky-toggle\"><span id=\"mntl-toc__heading-text_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__heading-text mntl-text-block\">In This Article<\/span><\/div>\n<ul id=\"mntl-toc__list_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list mntl-toc__list-heading expert-content text-utility-300\">\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">What Is the Purpose of Conditioner?<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Can I Skip Conditioner?<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Who Should Never Skip Conditioner?<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Alternatives to Conditioner<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">The Final Takeaway<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_6-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_6-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc article-content\">\n<div id=\"article__broad-video-jw_1-0\" class=\"comp article__broad-video-jw mntl-jwplayer-broad mntl-block is-hidden\" data-pixel-depth=\"100\">\n<div id=\"mntl-jwplayer-broad__title_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-jwplayer-broad__title mntl-block\"><button id=\"mntl-jwplayer-broad__title-icon--close_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-jwplayer-broad__title-icon--close mntl-block text-label-100\" data-click-tracked=\"false\"><span id=\"mntl-text-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-text-block\">Close<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-block article__body right-rail\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-universal-primary-image_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-universal-primary-image primary-image\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div class=\"primary-image__media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/wet-hair-2-ad5c59d95ef445689e073deb2d116eb9-1.webp\" width=\"1138\" height=\"853\" alt=\"Closeup of long wavy hair lying against a surface\" class=\" primary-image__image mntl-primary-image--blurry\" title=\"wet-hair-2-ad5c59d95ef445689e073deb2d116eb9-1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/wet-hair-2-ad5c59d95ef445689e073deb2d116eb9-1.webp\" width=\"1138\" height=\"853\" class=\"loaded primary-img--noscript primary-image__image mntl-primary-image--blurry\" alt=\"Closeup of long wavy hair lying against a surface\" title=\"wet-hair-2-ad5c59d95ef445689e073deb2d116eb9-1\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"primary-image__figcap_1-0\" class=\"comp primary-image__figcap mntl-figure-caption figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Death to Stock<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-page_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-page mntl-block\" data-sc-sticky-offset=\"125\" data-sc-ad-label-height=\"16\" data-sc-ad-track-spacing=\"100\" data-sc-min-track-height=\"250\" data-sc-max-track-height=\"600\" data-sc-breakpoint=\"50em\" data-sc-load-immediate=\"5\" data-sc-content-positions=\"[1, 1250, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1]\" data-bind-scroll-on-start=\"true\">\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-callout--finalverdict beauty-sc-block-callout mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-finalverdict\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Key Takeaways<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<ul>\n<li>Conditioner helps maintain pH balance, reduce breakage, and protect hair cuticles, which are all crucial for a healthy scalp and strong hair.<\/li>\n<li>People with wavy, curly, coarse, or gray hair should always use conditioner after shampooing for optimal hair health.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> With hair so oily I can slick it back sans product just two days post-wash, I&#8217;ve spent my fair share of time questioning the merits of conditioner. I cringe when I see phrases like &#8220;deeply hydrating,&#8221; &#8220;moisture repairing,&#8221; and &#8220;shine inducing&#8221; on my haircare labels, and I am in an eternal search for the world&#8217;s greatest dry shampoo. If we&#8217;re being completely honest, I&#8217;ve even tried cutting conditioner <em>out<\/em> of my haircare routine a few times.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> One of those anti-conditioner moments came early in my beauty career, way back in 2018. I happened to be meeting with a particular haircare superstar and when I confessed about my current haircare routine (or lack thereof), he made me swear right then and there I&#8217;d never skip conditioner again.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_6-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> And while I&#8217;ve stuck by my promise in the years since (and my oil production has definitely improved), I still had a lot of lingering questions about the point of conditioner altogether. Luckily, a few of my favorite hair experts\u2014trichologist William Gaunitz, hairstylist Kristin Ess, and hair expert Gaby Longsworth, Ph.D.\u2014agreed to answer my many, many questions. <strong>Read on for why conditioner is a must, no matter how much you might be tempted to skip.<\/strong><\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_8-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-callout--meetourexpert beauty-sc-block-callout mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-meetourexpert\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Meet the Experts<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<ul>\n<li>William Gaunitz is a certified trichologist and the founder of Advanced Trichology.<\/li>\n<li>Kristin Ess is a celebrity hairstylist and colorist, as well as the founder of Kristin Ess Hair.<\/li>\n<li>Gaby Longsworth, Ph.D., is a scientist and hair expert. She\u2019s the owner of\u00a0Absolutely Everything Curly\u00a0and received her Hair Practitioner Certificate through the International Association of Trichologists.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_9-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> What Is the Purpose of Conditioner? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_10-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> To keep it simple, Gaunitz says the purpose of conditioner is to hydrate the hair and coat the cuticle, which helps provide moisture and shine to the keratin that makes up the hair shaft. At a glance, conditioner benefits include:\n<\/p>\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_12-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<li>Moisturizes and softens hair<\/li>\n<li>Balances scalp and hair pH<\/li>\n<li>Detangles knots and tangles<\/li>\n<li>Protects and coats the hair cuticle<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_14-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> To keep it not so simple, we need to talk about the pH of the hair and scalp to really explain the purpose of conditioner. According to Longsworth, a healthy scalp should have a pH of around 4.5 to 5.5, and a healthy hair shaft should have a pH of about 4. That&#8217;s always the goal. (The pH scale ranges from 0, the most acidic, to 14, the most basic; 7 is neutral).\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_16-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Certain products and ingredients can disrupt that preferred pH range. As she explains, every hair product you use has either an acidic, neutral, or alkaline pH, and the hair reacts to that pH by raising or tightening the cuticle layer. Shampoos are typically somewhere on the higher side of the acidic range all the way up to neutral, with pH ranges of around 6 to 7 (this does not include sulfated shampoos, which often have higher pH ranges). Conditioners are even more acidic with pH ranges between about 4 and 6, which help bring scalp and hair shaft pH levels back to that ideal range.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_18-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> And today&#8217;s conditioners do a lot more than just that, adds Ess. &#8220;With all the advances in haircare, some conditioners can add significant shine, strengthen bonds in the hair, temporarily seal split ends, protect from heat, improve dandruff, add color, stimulate the scalp\u2014the list goes on and on,&#8221; she says. &#8220;Basically if you have a hair issue right now, it&#8217;s highly likely that there&#8217;s a conditioner on the market that can help in some way.&#8221;<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_20-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Can I Skip Conditioner? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_21-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> All three experts agree: Conditioner is pretty much always a good idea. While Gaunitz notes that you can <em>theoretically<\/em> skip conditioner if you want, over time it will break down the firm layer of the cuticle and create an even more unmanageable hair situation. To sum up all three experts&#8217; opinions, he says that &#8220;for the average person, conditioner should be mandatory.&#8221;\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_23-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> &#8220;If you feel the need to skip conditioner, you might be using the wrong one,&#8221; Ess says, explaining that someone with finer hair, for example, might be tempted to skip conditioner to avoid hair feeling &#8220;too heavy.&#8221; Rather than omitting the step altogether, she suggests switching to a lighter-weight conditioner.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_25-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Who Should Never Skip Conditioner? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_26-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Depending on hair type, it can be even more critical for some people to use conditioner. Gaunitz notes that any with a wave, curl, coarseness, or gray color to their hair (even if it&#8217;s just the slightest amount) should use conditioner after every single shampooing.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_28-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> &#8220;The cuticle of the hair resembles the scales of a fish,&#8221; he explains. &#8220;When you shampoo your hair, it will dry out the edges of those scales. You must rehydrate the edges and the exterior of the cuticle to help create strength, durability, and shine.&#8221;\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_30-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> As an oily scalped human, I&#8217;ve considered skipping on conditioner more than one time\u2014I can&#8217;t possibly need to add <em>more<\/em> shine and moisture to my hair, can I? Apparently I can. While people with very oily or very healthy straight hair may be able to skip conditioner every so often, it&#8217;s still not recommended since even a small amount can help reset hair and scalp pH, says Longsworth. And, as she points out, conditioner is rinsed out anyway, so it&#8217;s not going to do all that much in terms of increasing oil production.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_32-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Alternatives to Conditioner <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_33-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> While all three experts agree conditioner is almost always a good idea, there are a few, very specific instances in which one might be able to skip conditioner, or rather swap it out for an alternative.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_35-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Folks who use a co-wash instead of shampoo can actually skip conditioner since too much moisture can be detrimental to hair. The same goes for those using a conditioning wash, says Longsworth. She also notes that you can likely skip conditioner when using a deep conditioner or conditioning hair mask, as they&#8217;re typically formulated at a similar low pH. When in doubt, check the product&#8217;s instructions.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_37-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Other than that, Gaunitz says there&#8217;s really no reason to cut out conditioner from your routine. In fact, doing so can actually contribute to damage.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_39-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> The Final Takeaway <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_40-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Ess puts it best: &#8220;It really is beneficial to the overall health of the hair to condition after you shampoo\u2014in my personal opinion, you should never skip conditioner.&#8221; Conditioning isn&#8217;t just about adding shine and moisture, it&#8217;s an imperative step in restoring hair and scalp pH as well as helping to rehydrate, strengthen, and protect the hair.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_42-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> And she makes another great point, one that bears repeating: If you feel the need to skip conditioner, consider the <em>type<\/em> of conditioner you&#8217;re using and switch to something that more closely aligns with your hair&#8217;s needs.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_44-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> As for a TLDR, it&#8217;s this simple: Use the conditioner.\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_46-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-faq--expanded beauty-sc-block-faq mntl-sc-block-faq mntl-block is-expanded\">\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-faq__title_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-faq__title mntl-text-block\">FAQ<\/div>\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block-faq__content_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-faq__content mntl-accordion \" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<li class=\"accordion__item js-accordion-item is-active\" data-ordinal=\"1\">\n<div class=\"accordion__header js-accordion-trigger\" id=\"mntl-accordion__item_1-0-section-0\"><span class=\"accordion__title\">Can you skip conditioner?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion__body\">\n<div id=\"mntl-accordion__content_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-accordion__content\">\n<div class=\"faq-accordion__item-answer\">\n<p>Anyone <em>can<\/em> skip conditioner, but that doesn&#8217;t mean they should. All three experts we talked to agree that using conditioner is almost always a good idea. So yes you <em>can<\/em> skip it, but it&#8217;s not a good idea.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"accordion__item js-accordion-item is-active\" data-ordinal=\"2\">\n<div class=\"accordion__header js-accordion-trigger\" id=\"mntl-accordion__item_2-0-section-1\"><span class=\"accordion__title\">What does skipping conditioner do?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion__body\">\n<div id=\"mntl-accordion__content_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-accordion__content\">\n<div class=\"faq-accordion__item-answer\">\n<p>Skipping conditioner robs your hair of the opportunity to rehydrate, add strength, and have extra protection. Conditioner helps to restore your hair and scalp pH and some also add shine, offer heat protection, help protect your color, and even stimulate your scalp. In most hair situations, conditioner can help.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc article-post-content\">\n<div id=\"beauty-breadcrumbs--chips_1-0\" class=\"comp beauty-breadcrumbs--chips mntl-universal-breadcrumbs--chips mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-breadcrumbs__read-more_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-breadcrumbs__read-more mntl-text-block text-title-100\">Read more:<\/div>\n<ul id=\"mntl-universal-breadcrumbs_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-universal-breadcrumbs mntl-block text-label-300 breadcrumbs\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<li id=\"mntl-breadcrumbs__item_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-breadcrumbs__item mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Hair<\/span><\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-breadcrumbs__item_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-breadcrumbs__item mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Haircare<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<div class=\"loc article-content\">\n<div id=\"article__broad-video-jw_1-0\" class=\"comp article__broad-video-jw mntl-jwplayer-broad mntl-block is-hidden\" data-pixel-depth=\"100\">\n<div id=\"mntl-jwplayer-broad__title_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-jwplayer-broad__title mntl-block\"><button id=\"mntl-jwplayer-broad__title-icon--close_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-jwplayer-broad__title-icon--close mntl-block text-label-100\" data-click-tracked=\"false\"><span id=\"mntl-text-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-text-block\">Close<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-block article__body right-rail\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-universal-primary-image_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-universal-primary-image primary-image\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div class=\"primary-image__media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/wet-hair-2-ad5c59d95ef445689e073deb2d116eb9-1.webp\" width=\"1138\" height=\"853\" alt=\"Closeup of long wavy hair lying against a surface\" class=\" primary-image__image mntl-primary-image--blurry\" title=\"wet-hair-2-ad5c59d95ef445689e073deb2d116eb9-1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/wet-hair-2-ad5c59d95ef445689e073deb2d116eb9-1.webp\" width=\"1138\" height=\"853\" class=\"loaded primary-img--noscript primary-image__image mntl-primary-image--blurry\" alt=\"Closeup of long wavy hair lying against a surface\" title=\"wet-hair-2-ad5c59d95ef445689e073deb2d116eb9-1\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"primary-image__figcap_1-0\" class=\"comp primary-image__figcap mntl-figure-caption figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Death to Stock<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-page_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-page mntl-block\" data-sc-sticky-offset=\"125\" data-sc-ad-label-height=\"16\" data-sc-ad-track-spacing=\"100\" data-sc-min-track-height=\"250\" data-sc-max-track-height=\"600\" data-sc-breakpoint=\"50em\" data-sc-load-immediate=\"5\" data-sc-content-positions=\"[1, 1250, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1]\" data-bind-scroll-on-start=\"true\">\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-callout--finalverdict beauty-sc-block-callout mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-finalverdict\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Key Takeaways<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<ul>\n<li>Conditioner helps maintain pH balance, reduce breakage, and protect hair cuticles, which are all crucial for a healthy scalp and strong hair.<\/li>\n<li>People with wavy, curly, coarse, or gray hair should always use conditioner after shampooing for optimal hair health.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> With hair so oily I can slick it back sans product just two days post-wash, I&#8217;ve spent my fair share of time questioning the merits of conditioner. I cringe when I see phrases like &#8220;deeply hydrating,&#8221; &#8220;moisture repairing,&#8221; and &#8220;shine inducing&#8221; on my haircare labels, and I am in an eternal search for the world&#8217;s greatest dry shampoo. If we&#8217;re being completely honest, I&#8217;ve even tried cutting conditioner <em>out<\/em> of my haircare routine a few times.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> One of those anti-conditioner moments came early in my beauty career, way back in 2018. I happened to be meeting with a particular haircare superstar and when I confessed about my current haircare routine (or lack thereof), he made me swear right then and there I&#8217;d never skip conditioner again.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_6-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> And while I&#8217;ve stuck by my promise in the years since (and my oil production has definitely improved), I still had a lot of lingering questions about the point of conditioner altogether. Luckily, a few of my favorite hair experts\u2014trichologist William Gaunitz, hairstylist Kristin Ess, and hair expert Gaby Longsworth, Ph.D.\u2014agreed to answer my many, many questions. <strong>Read on for why conditioner is a must, no matter how much you might be tempted to skip.<\/strong><\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_8-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-callout--meetourexpert beauty-sc-block-callout mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-meetourexpert\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Meet the Experts<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<ul>\n<li>William Gaunitz is a certified trichologist and the founder of Advanced Trichology.<\/li>\n<li>Kristin Ess is a celebrity hairstylist and colorist, as well as the founder of Kristin Ess Hair.<\/li>\n<li>Gaby Longsworth, Ph.D., is a scientist and hair expert. She\u2019s the owner of\u00a0Absolutely Everything Curly\u00a0and received her Hair Practitioner Certificate through the International Association of Trichologists.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_9-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> What Is the Purpose of Conditioner? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_10-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> To keep it simple, Gaunitz says the purpose of conditioner is to hydrate the hair and coat the cuticle, which helps provide moisture and shine to the keratin that makes up the hair shaft. At a glance, conditioner benefits include:\n<\/p>\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_12-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<li>Moisturizes and softens hair<\/li>\n<li>Balances scalp and hair pH<\/li>\n<li>Detangles knots and tangles<\/li>\n<li>Protects and coats the hair cuticle<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_14-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> To keep it not so simple, we need to talk about the pH of the hair and scalp to really explain the purpose of conditioner. According to Longsworth, a healthy scalp should have a pH of around 4.5 to 5.5, and a healthy hair shaft should have a pH of about 4. That&#8217;s always the goal. (The pH scale ranges from 0, the most acidic, to 14, the most basic; 7 is neutral).\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_16-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Certain products and ingredients can disrupt that preferred pH range. As she explains, every hair product you use has either an acidic, neutral, or alkaline pH, and the hair reacts to that pH by raising or tightening the cuticle layer. Shampoos are typically somewhere on the higher side of the acidic range all the way up to neutral, with pH ranges of around 6 to 7 (this does not include sulfated shampoos, which often have higher pH ranges). Conditioners are even more acidic with pH ranges between about 4 and 6, which help bring scalp and hair shaft pH levels back to that ideal range.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_18-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> And today&#8217;s conditioners do a lot more than just that, adds Ess. &#8220;With all the advances in haircare, some conditioners can add significant shine, strengthen bonds in the hair, temporarily seal split ends, protect from heat, improve dandruff, add color, stimulate the scalp\u2014the list goes on and on,&#8221; she says. &#8220;Basically if you have a hair issue right now, it&#8217;s highly likely that there&#8217;s a conditioner on the market that can help in some way.&#8221;<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_20-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Can I Skip Conditioner? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_21-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> All three experts agree: Conditioner is pretty much always a good idea. While Gaunitz notes that you can <em>theoretically<\/em> skip conditioner if you want, over time it will break down the firm layer of the cuticle and create an even more unmanageable hair situation. To sum up all three experts&#8217; opinions, he says that &#8220;for the average person, conditioner should be mandatory.&#8221;\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_23-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> &#8220;If you feel the need to skip conditioner, you might be using the wrong one,&#8221; Ess says, explaining that someone with finer hair, for example, might be tempted to skip conditioner to avoid hair feeling &#8220;too heavy.&#8221; Rather than omitting the step altogether, she suggests switching to a lighter-weight conditioner.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_25-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Who Should Never Skip Conditioner? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_26-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Depending on hair type, it can be even more critical for some people to use conditioner. Gaunitz notes that any with a wave, curl, coarseness, or gray color to their hair (even if it&#8217;s just the slightest amount) should use conditioner after every single shampooing.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_28-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> &#8220;The cuticle of the hair resembles the scales of a fish,&#8221; he explains. &#8220;When you shampoo your hair, it will dry out the edges of those scales. You must rehydrate the edges and the exterior of the cuticle to help create strength, durability, and shine.&#8221;\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_30-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> As an oily scalped human, I&#8217;ve considered skipping on conditioner more than one time\u2014I can&#8217;t possibly need to add <em>more<\/em> shine and moisture to my hair, can I? Apparently I can. While people with very oily or very healthy straight hair may be able to skip conditioner every so often, it&#8217;s still not recommended since even a small amount can help reset hair and scalp pH, says Longsworth. And, as she points out, conditioner is rinsed out anyway, so it&#8217;s not going to do all that much in terms of increasing oil production.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_32-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Alternatives to Conditioner <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_33-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> While all three experts agree conditioner is almost always a good idea, there are a few, very specific instances in which one might be able to skip conditioner, or rather swap it out for an alternative.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_35-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Folks who use a co-wash instead of shampoo can actually skip conditioner since too much moisture can be detrimental to hair. The same goes for those using a conditioning wash, says Longsworth. She also notes that you can likely skip conditioner when using a deep conditioner or conditioning hair mask, as they&#8217;re typically formulated at a similar low pH. When in doubt, check the product&#8217;s instructions.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_37-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Other than that, Gaunitz says there&#8217;s really no reason to cut out conditioner from your routine. In fact, doing so can actually contribute to damage.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_39-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> The Final Takeaway <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_40-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Ess puts it best: &#8220;It really is beneficial to the overall health of the hair to condition after you shampoo\u2014in my personal opinion, you should never skip conditioner.&#8221; Conditioning isn&#8217;t just about adding shine and moisture, it&#8217;s an imperative step in restoring hair and scalp pH as well as helping to rehydrate, strengthen, and protect the hair.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_42-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> And she makes another great point, one that bears repeating: If you feel the need to skip conditioner, consider the <em>type<\/em> of conditioner you&#8217;re using and switch to something that more closely aligns with your hair&#8217;s needs.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_44-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> As for a TLDR, it&#8217;s this simple: Use the conditioner.\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_46-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-faq--expanded beauty-sc-block-faq mntl-sc-block-faq mntl-block is-expanded\">\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-faq__title_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-faq__title mntl-text-block\">FAQ<\/div>\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block-faq__content_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-faq__content mntl-accordion \" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<li class=\"accordion__item js-accordion-item is-active\" data-ordinal=\"1\">\n<div class=\"accordion__header js-accordion-trigger\" id=\"mntl-accordion__item_1-0-section-0\"><span class=\"accordion__title\">Can you skip conditioner?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion__body\">\n<div id=\"mntl-accordion__content_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-accordion__content\">\n<div class=\"faq-accordion__item-answer\">\n<p>Anyone <em>can<\/em> skip conditioner, but that doesn&#8217;t mean they should. All three experts we talked to agree that using conditioner is almost always a good idea. So yes you <em>can<\/em> skip it, but it&#8217;s not a good idea.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"accordion__item js-accordion-item is-active\" data-ordinal=\"2\">\n<div class=\"accordion__header js-accordion-trigger\" id=\"mntl-accordion__item_2-0-section-1\"><span class=\"accordion__title\">What does skipping conditioner do?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion__body\">\n<div id=\"mntl-accordion__content_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-accordion__content\">\n<div class=\"faq-accordion__item-answer\">\n<p>Skipping conditioner robs your hair of the opportunity to rehydrate, add strength, and have extra protection. Conditioner helps to restore your hair and scalp pH and some also add shine, offer heat protection, help protect your color, and even stimulate your scalp. In most hair situations, conditioner can help.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-page_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-page mntl-block\" data-sc-sticky-offset=\"125\" data-sc-ad-label-height=\"16\" data-sc-ad-track-spacing=\"100\" data-sc-min-track-height=\"250\" data-sc-max-track-height=\"600\" data-sc-breakpoint=\"50em\" data-sc-load-immediate=\"5\" data-sc-content-positions=\"[1, 1250, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1]\" data-bind-scroll-on-start=\"true\">\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-callout--finalverdict beauty-sc-block-callout mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-finalverdict\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Key Takeaways<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<ul>\n<li>Conditioner helps maintain pH balance, reduce breakage, and protect hair cuticles, which are all crucial for a healthy scalp and strong hair.<\/li>\n<li>People with wavy, curly, coarse, or gray hair should always use conditioner after shampooing for optimal hair health.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> With hair so oily I can slick it back sans product just two days post-wash, I&#8217;ve spent my fair share of time questioning the merits of conditioner. I cringe when I see phrases like &#8220;deeply hydrating,&#8221; &#8220;moisture repairing,&#8221; and &#8220;shine inducing&#8221; on my haircare labels, and I am in an eternal search for the world&#8217;s greatest dry shampoo. If we&#8217;re being completely honest, I&#8217;ve even tried cutting conditioner <em>out<\/em> of my haircare routine a few times.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> One of those anti-conditioner moments came early in my beauty career, way back in 2018. I happened to be meeting with a particular haircare superstar and when I confessed about my current haircare routine (or lack thereof), he made me swear right then and there I&#8217;d never skip conditioner again.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_6-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> And while I&#8217;ve stuck by my promise in the years since (and my oil production has definitely improved), I still had a lot of lingering questions about the point of conditioner altogether. Luckily, a few of my favorite hair experts\u2014trichologist William Gaunitz, hairstylist Kristin Ess, and hair expert Gaby Longsworth, Ph.D.\u2014agreed to answer my many, many questions. <strong>Read on for why conditioner is a must, no matter how much you might be tempted to skip.<\/strong><\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_8-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-callout--meetourexpert beauty-sc-block-callout mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-meetourexpert\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Meet the Experts<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<ul>\n<li>William Gaunitz is a certified trichologist and the founder of Advanced Trichology.<\/li>\n<li>Kristin Ess is a celebrity hairstylist and colorist, as well as the founder of Kristin Ess Hair.<\/li>\n<li>Gaby Longsworth, Ph.D., is a scientist and hair expert. She\u2019s the owner of\u00a0Absolutely Everything Curly\u00a0and received her Hair Practitioner Certificate through the International Association of Trichologists.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_9-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> What Is the Purpose of Conditioner? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_10-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> To keep it simple, Gaunitz says the purpose of conditioner is to hydrate the hair and coat the cuticle, which helps provide moisture and shine to the keratin that makes up the hair shaft. At a glance, conditioner benefits include:\n<\/p>\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_12-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<li>Moisturizes and softens hair<\/li>\n<li>Balances scalp and hair pH<\/li>\n<li>Detangles knots and tangles<\/li>\n<li>Protects and coats the hair cuticle<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_14-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> To keep it not so simple, we need to talk about the pH of the hair and scalp to really explain the purpose of conditioner. According to Longsworth, a healthy scalp should have a pH of around 4.5 to 5.5, and a healthy hair shaft should have a pH of about 4. That&#8217;s always the goal. (The pH scale ranges from 0, the most acidic, to 14, the most basic; 7 is neutral).\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_16-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Certain products and ingredients can disrupt that preferred pH range. As she explains, every hair product you use has either an acidic, neutral, or alkaline pH, and the hair reacts to that pH by raising or tightening the cuticle layer. Shampoos are typically somewhere on the higher side of the acidic range all the way up to neutral, with pH ranges of around 6 to 7 (this does not include sulfated shampoos, which often have higher pH ranges). Conditioners are even more acidic with pH ranges between about 4 and 6, which help bring scalp and hair shaft pH levels back to that ideal range.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_18-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> And today&#8217;s conditioners do a lot more than just that, adds Ess. &#8220;With all the advances in haircare, some conditioners can add significant shine, strengthen bonds in the hair, temporarily seal split ends, protect from heat, improve dandruff, add color, stimulate the scalp\u2014the list goes on and on,&#8221; she says. &#8220;Basically if you have a hair issue right now, it&#8217;s highly likely that there&#8217;s a conditioner on the market that can help in some way.&#8221;<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_20-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Can I Skip Conditioner? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_21-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> All three experts agree: Conditioner is pretty much always a good idea. While Gaunitz notes that you can <em>theoretically<\/em> skip conditioner if you want, over time it will break down the firm layer of the cuticle and create an even more unmanageable hair situation. To sum up all three experts&#8217; opinions, he says that &#8220;for the average person, conditioner should be mandatory.&#8221;\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_23-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> &#8220;If you feel the need to skip conditioner, you might be using the wrong one,&#8221; Ess says, explaining that someone with finer hair, for example, might be tempted to skip conditioner to avoid hair feeling &#8220;too heavy.&#8221; Rather than omitting the step altogether, she suggests switching to a lighter-weight conditioner.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_25-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Who Should Never Skip Conditioner? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_26-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Depending on hair type, it can be even more critical for some people to use conditioner. Gaunitz notes that any with a wave, curl, coarseness, or gray color to their hair (even if it&#8217;s just the slightest amount) should use conditioner after every single shampooing.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_28-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> &#8220;The cuticle of the hair resembles the scales of a fish,&#8221; he explains. &#8220;When you shampoo your hair, it will dry out the edges of those scales. You must rehydrate the edges and the exterior of the cuticle to help create strength, durability, and shine.&#8221;\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_30-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> As an oily scalped human, I&#8217;ve considered skipping on conditioner more than one time\u2014I can&#8217;t possibly need to add <em>more<\/em> shine and moisture to my hair, can I? Apparently I can. While people with very oily or very healthy straight hair may be able to skip conditioner every so often, it&#8217;s still not recommended since even a small amount can help reset hair and scalp pH, says Longsworth. And, as she points out, conditioner is rinsed out anyway, so it&#8217;s not going to do all that much in terms of increasing oil production.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_32-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Alternatives to Conditioner <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_33-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> While all three experts agree conditioner is almost always a good idea, there are a few, very specific instances in which one might be able to skip conditioner, or rather swap it out for an alternative.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_35-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Folks who use a co-wash instead of shampoo can actually skip conditioner since too much moisture can be detrimental to hair. The same goes for those using a conditioning wash, says Longsworth. She also notes that you can likely skip conditioner when using a deep conditioner or conditioning hair mask, as they&#8217;re typically formulated at a similar low pH. When in doubt, check the product&#8217;s instructions.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_37-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Other than that, Gaunitz says there&#8217;s really no reason to cut out conditioner from your routine. In fact, doing so can actually contribute to damage.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_39-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> The Final Takeaway <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_40-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Ess puts it best: &#8220;It really is beneficial to the overall health of the hair to condition after you shampoo\u2014in my personal opinion, you should never skip conditioner.&#8221; Conditioning isn&#8217;t just about adding shine and moisture, it&#8217;s an imperative step in restoring hair and scalp pH as well as helping to rehydrate, strengthen, and protect the hair.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_42-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> And she makes another great point, one that bears repeating: If you feel the need to skip conditioner, consider the <em>type<\/em> of conditioner you&#8217;re using and switch to something that more closely aligns with your hair&#8217;s needs.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_44-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> As for a TLDR, it&#8217;s this simple: Use the conditioner.\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_46-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-faq--expanded beauty-sc-block-faq mntl-sc-block-faq mntl-block is-expanded\">\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-faq__title_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-faq__title mntl-text-block\">FAQ<\/div>\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block-faq__content_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-faq__content mntl-accordion \" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<li class=\"accordion__item js-accordion-item is-active\" data-ordinal=\"1\">\n<div class=\"accordion__header js-accordion-trigger\" id=\"mntl-accordion__item_1-0-section-0\"><span class=\"accordion__title\">Can you skip conditioner?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion__body\">\n<div id=\"mntl-accordion__content_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-accordion__content\">\n<div class=\"faq-accordion__item-answer\">\n<p>Anyone <em>can<\/em> skip conditioner, but that doesn&#8217;t mean they should. All three experts we talked to agree that using conditioner is almost always a good idea. So yes you <em>can<\/em> skip it, but it&#8217;s not a good idea.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"accordion__item js-accordion-item is-active\" data-ordinal=\"2\">\n<div class=\"accordion__header js-accordion-trigger\" id=\"mntl-accordion__item_2-0-section-1\"><span class=\"accordion__title\">What does skipping conditioner do?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion__body\">\n<div id=\"mntl-accordion__content_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-accordion__content\">\n<div class=\"faq-accordion__item-answer\">\n<p>Skipping conditioner robs your hair of the opportunity to rehydrate, add strength, and have extra protection. Conditioner helps to restore your hair and scalp pH and some also add shine, offer heat protection, help protect your color, and even stimulate your scalp. In most hair situations, conditioner can help.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p> Source URL: https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/can-i-skip-conditioner-11876814<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Why You Should Never Skip Conditioner It does more than you think. By Dani Hardman Dani Hardman Dani is New York-based beauty writer and editor. Her work has been featured in Allure, Elle, InStyle, Well + Good, and more. Byrdie&#8217;s Editorial Guidelines Published on December 31, 2025 07:10AM Reviewed by Sophia Emmanuel Reviewed by Sophia [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1697552,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[83,226],"class_list":["post-1697549","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-politics","tag-byrdie-com","tag-crawlmanager"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1697549","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1697549"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1697549\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/1697552"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1697549"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1697549"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1697549"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}