Learning how to use leave-in conditioner can be confusing, so allow us to break it down for you. If you’ve never used the best leave-in conditioners, you’re missing out on a host of benefits. There are a few things that need to be factored into your choice of a leave-in conditioner and how you use it. But with the right product and routine, you’ll be on your way to boosting hair health.
“Leave-in conditioner hydrates and softens hair, making it easier to detangle and style while reducing breakage,” says hairstylist Jennifer Korab. “It helps control frizz, adds shine, protects against heat and UV damage, and keeps color-treated hair looking vibrant.”
A common misconception is that leave-in conditioner works only for curly and textured hair, but that’s simply not true. “Yes, all hair types can benefit from leave-in conditioners,” says Korab. “It’s just about choosing the right formula.”
Ahead, our complete guide on how to use leave-in conditioner, including how to choose the right formula for your hair type, how to apply leave-in conditioner, product recommendations, and more.
Best leave-in conditioners, at a glance
- Best Overall: K18 Leave-In Molecular Repair Hair Mask, $75
- Best for Dry Hair: Kérastase Nutritive Nectar Thermique Heat Protecting Leave-In Cream , $48
- Best for Fine Hair: Olaplex No.5 Moisturize & Mend Leave-In Conditioner, $32
- Best for Curly Hair: Briogeo Curl Charisma Leave-In Defining Creme, $24
- Best for Low Porosity Hair: Ouidad Moisture Lock Leave-In Conditioner, $26
How to use leave-in conditioner, step by step
You’ll want to start by finding the right leave-in conditioner for your hair type. This step is crucial if you want to reap the benefits, as the wrong formula can leave hair feeling weighed down or greasy.
According to hairstylist Michelle Cleveland, the general rule of thumb is: “Lightweight sprays for fine hair and richer creams for thick, curly, or coily textures.”
Generally, you’ll want to start with clean, damp hair, which Cleveland says is best for even distribution. Leave-in conditioners can sometimes be used on dry hair depending on the formula, so make sure to check your specific product instructions. “Some leave-ins can be used on dry hair for touch-ups or frizz control, but not all,” says Cleveland.
Below is Cleveland’s step-by-step guide on how to use leave-in conditioner by hair type.
- Wash and towel-dry your hair gently.
- Use a lightweight spray or lotion formula. Avoid heavy or oil-based products to prevent weighing hair down.
- Spray a light mist of leave-in conditioner, avoiding roots.
- Comb through with a wide-tooth comb or your fingers.
- Style as usual, air-dry or blow-dry.
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- After washing, gently pat hair dry with a microfiber towel.
- Use a creamy but lightweight formula.
- Apply a small amount of cream leave-in from midlengths to ends.
- Scrunch for definition or comb through for smoother styles.
- Let air-dry or diffuse for volume
- Courtesy of brand
- Original photo from Glamour reviewer Carolyn Todd testing Kerastase Nutritive Nectar Thermique Heat Protecting Leave-In Cream
- Original photo from Carolyn Todd testing Kerastase Nutritive Nectar Thermique Heat Protecting Leave-In Cream
- Original photo from Carolyn Todd testing Kerastase Nutritive Nectar Thermique Heat Protecting Leave-In Cream
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- After shampooing, towel-dry hair.
- Use a rich, creamy leave-in for extra hydration.
- Start with a nickel- to quarter-size amount (add more only if needed).
- Distribute evenly, section by section, focusing on ends.
- Comb through and style.
- Apply after washing, when hair is still damp but not dripping.
- Look for thicker, buttery formulas with intense moisture.
- Section hair into four or more parts.
- Apply a generous amount of leave-in to each section.
- Detangle with fingers or a wide-tooth comb.
- Follow with curl cream or gel if needed.
- You can use the LOC or LCO method (leave-in, oil, cream) for longer moisture retention.
- Courtesy of brand
- Original photo from Glamour reviewer Heather Mack testing Ouidad Moisture Lock Leave-In Conditioner
- Original photo from Heather Mack testing Ouidad Moisture Lock Leave-In Conditioner
- Original photo from Heather Mack testing Ouidad Moisture Lock Leave-In Conditioner
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Should I wash out leave-in conditioner?
Nope! Once you've applied your leave-in conditioner, all your work is done. Easy, right?
“Leave-in conditioner is meant to stay in your hair,” says Korab. “It continues to hydrate, protect, and smooth throughout the day without rinsing.”
How often should you use leave-in conditioner?
The answer depends on your hair type and routine. According to Cleveland, fine hair can benefit from one to three treatments per week after washing. For curly and coily hair, it can be used daily or every other day.
If you heat-style your hair, you can also apply leave-in conditioner before blow-drying or straightening to help protect strands and keep them healthy.
“You can use it as often as needed,” says Cleveland. “Daily for dry, curly, or damaged hair, and a few times a week for fine or oily hair to avoid buildup. If buildup occurs, clarify hair every one to two weeks.”
