By Nancy Chandia Design
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Hydrolyzed Proteins – These are a premium ingredient that imparts strength, shine, and moisture to your hair strands. Popular Hydrolyzed proteins include hydrolyzed silk amino acids, hydrolyzed pea protein, hydrolyzed keratin, and hydrolyzed wheat protein. Conditioners in this category are usually aimed at damaged and chemically treated hair. Unlike other proteins, hydrolyzed proteins do not leave our hair feeling straw-like or dry. They actually help to make your hair strands feel hydrated and strong.
2. Humectants – These are Key ingredients in retaining moisture and rehydrating dry hair. There is a long list of humectants, but the most popular are Glycerin, Castor Oil, Panthenol, Sorbitol, Allantoin, Aloe Vera, Honey, and Propylene Glycol. High-end ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide, known for their superior hydrating properties, are also making their way into higher-end conditioners.
3. Conditioning Emulsifiers – Emulsifiers are ingredients that help to combine oil and water to create a lotion- or cream-like product, also referred to as emulsions. Some popular emulsifiers used in hair care products also contain conditioning properties. Popular examples are Behentrimonium Methosulfate (BTMS), Quaternium Ammonium Compound (aka Quats), Glyceryl Stearate… These ingredients have additional properties that soften your hair, reducing frizz and static.
4. Water – Water is the first ingredient in most emulsified products. The less water in your conditioner, the thicker the conditioner tends to be. Water is the key to hydrated hair.
Working in combination with other ingredients, it ensures your strands remain elastic and resistant to breakage.
5. Emollients – Emollients are simply oils or butters. Plant Oils and butters are fantastic for hair health. They create a thick and rich conditioner. Certain oils are known to penetrate the inner layers of your hair strands, imparting softness, strength, and elasticity. Coconut Oil, Almond Oil, Avocado Oil and Shea Butter are some of the most commonly used emollients in hair care…
Once you can accurately identify some of the top 5 key ingredient groups in your deep conditioners, you will soon be able to easily spot a good product from a mediocre one.