Beauty Q&A: What Is a Cleansing Conditioner?

What Is a Cleansing Conditioner?

“A cleansing conditioner is a lather-less formula that uses cleansing agents in a conditioning base to help lift surface dirt off of your hair,” says Price. They have gained a lot of popularity due to their ability to cleanse without stripping your hair. They’re meant to nourish and condition, like a typical conditioner, but without the extra step. 
 
According to Price, shampoos should still be a part of your routine, just not every day. “Cleansing conditioners should be used on days when your hair needs a refresh or a reset but doesn’t need a full-on shampoo,” she says. “Sulfate-free shampoo is still needed to properly cleanse your hair and scalp.” 

Should You Use a Cleansing Conditioner?

Anyone can use a cleansing conditioner, but Price says that they often work best on curly or coily hair types. Curly and coily hair tend to be drier than other hair types and can benefit from the conditioning properties. If you have curly hair and want to try a cleansing conditioner, we recommend the Carol’s Daughter Hair Milk Cleansing Conditioner. It rinses away impurities as it deeply moisturizes, conditions from root to tip and quickly detangles curls, coils, kinks and waves. Because cleansing conditioners are very moisturizing, “I would not recommend them for oily hair as this could cause additional build up and oil,” says Price. Oily hair types benefit from clarifying products. Check out our recommendations for clarifying products here.