Can You Use Conditioner On Locs?

5–7 minutes

As we all know, the type of products we use on our locs can either make or break them.

Heavy oils and creams can weigh down our locs; excessive use of edge control can cause buildup, along with other similar issues.

But can we actually use conditioner on our locs, and is it even safe?

The answer is yes, but there’s a right way to go about it.

In today’s blog post we’re going to talk all about the do’s and don’ts of using conditioner on locs, facts & myths, the best conditioner for locs, and much more.

This blog post is all about using conditioner on locs!

Table Of Contents

Choose the Right Conditioner

When looking to apply conditioner to your locs, you want to make sure you are thoroughly reading the ingredients of said conditioner.

For example, you want to make sure the conditioner you choose is water-based. You will know a product is water-based because the first ingredient will read “Water (Aqua)”.

Water-based conditioners are lighter and more easily absorbed, leaving less residue, which is ideal for locs.

Conditoners that will leave residue will consist of avoid heavy oils and butters. Ingredients would read coconut oil, castor oil, olive oil, shea butter, mango butter, or cocoa butter, which will create buildup overtime.

Which One Should You Choose? | Leave-in or Rinse-out conditioner

This all depends on what benefits you’re looking for from the conditioner.

If you are looking for a lightweight daily use conditioner, you should opt for a leave-in conditioner.

Leave-in conditioners are typically water-based and ideal for daily use.

If you are looking for an intense hydrating treatment, you should opt for rinse-out conditioner.

Rinse-out conditioners are typically heavier and restores softness after stripping hair from shampooing.

Best Leave-In Conditioner For Locs

Loc It In Honey Leave-In Conditioner 8oz: $12.49

Best Rinse-Out Conditioner For Locs

Green Apple & Aloe Nutrition Leave-In Conditioner 12oz: $10.99

For our full list of product recommendations, check out our Leisure Favorites!

Conditioner on Locs: Do’s & Don’ts

Now that you’ve decided on the right conditioner for your locs, here is how you’re going to use them correctly.

DO

Use a Spray Conditioner Only: Spray conditioners distribute a fine mist of moisture evenly across your locs, which is all you need to refresh your hair and scalp.
Use Sparingly: Although it is marketed to use daily, be sure to not use an excessive amount that can overtime cause buildup. Using every other day should be good enough.
Thoroughly gently massage in: This will help the conditioner to deeply moisturize and penetrate the shaft of the locs.

DON’T

Condition Too Often: Over-conditioning can lead to buildup or over-saturation.
Skip Rinsing Thoroughly: When using rinse-out conditioner, always ensure you rinse it out thoroughly until the water runs clear.

Spray Too Close: Be sure you are 6-8 inches away from locs, to evenly distribute product.

Conditioner on Locs: Myths & Facts

There are lots myths about conditioning locs that can lead to confusion or improper care. These myths stem from misunderstandings about how locs function and how conditioning should be done for this unique hair type.

Here are some of the most common myths, along with the truth behind them:

Myth: You Should Never Condition Locs

Fact: Conditioning is essential for maintaining the health of your locs.

Although conditioners should be used carefully to avoid buildup, moisturizing and nourishing your locs is crucial for a healthy locs journey.

Myth: Conditioners Will Unravel Your Locs

Fact: Proper conditioning won’t unravel your locs, especially if they are fully formed and mature.

However, applying a heavy conditioner or not rinsing thoroughly could lead to product buildup, which may weaken the locs over time. The key is to use the right type of product and ensure thorough rinsing.

Myth: Conditioners Will Cause Buildup in Locs

Fact: While conditioners can cause buildup if they contain heavy oils, silicones, or other ingredients that are hard to rinse out, proper use of the right conditioner won’t lead to buildup.

The issue typically arises from using thick, creamy conditioners or oils that aren’t designed for locs.

Myth: You Shouldn’t Condition Your Scalp

Fact: Your scalp can benefit from conditioning, especially if it’s dry or prone to flakiness.

However, it’s important to avoid over-conditioning or using heavy products on the scalp, as this can lead to residue or clogged pores.

Moisturizing the scalp is crucial for healthy hair growth and preventing dryness or dandruff.

Myth: Conditioners Are Only for Loose Hair, Not Locs

Fact: Locs are still hair, and they need conditioning just like loose hair. The difference is that locs tend to trap moisture and products more, so you need to be more mindful of the type of conditioner you use and how you apply it.

How To Condition Locs

For a deeper condition, here is how to condition your locs correctly.

After shampooing, generously spray conditioner on to locs from root to tip evenly.
Gently massage conditioner into scalp to help stimulate blood circulation.
Apply a shower cap or plastic bag and leave conditioner in for a minimum of 30 minutes (thicker or longer hair can be left in longer) under a hooded dryer.
Rinse locs thoroughly with warm water to remove the conditioner. Then rinse with cool water to help close the hair cuticles and seal in moisture.

Adding in other products such as aloe vera gel and natural/essential oils can boost your hydration take in when doing these treatments as well.

Deep conditioning at least once or twice a month is enough to provide deep hydration to your locs.

Recommended Blog Post: Here’s What To Do For Dry Scalp

So yes—you can use conditioner on locs, with the proper care!

This post was all about using conditioner on your locs!

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