The basic function of a conditioner is to replace the sebum that is lost from your hair. And though you get shampoos and conditioners fortified with vitamins and proteins and fruit extracts, the base line remains that none of them can replace the importance of a balanced and healthy diet. Nevertheless, it is always better to know what to use and what not to use for your hair. Different types of conditioners with varying ingredients are available in the market today. Choose what best suits your hair.
Here's everything you wanted to know about conditioners but did not know whom to ask:
Protein Conditioners
Fortified with proteins, these lubricate your hair between washes. Although the protein does not penetrate the hair shaft, it can temporarily thicken your hair.
Deep Conditioners
These usually contain most of the agents found in instant conditioners and are more concentrated. Deep conditioners are meant to remain on the hair for a longer period of time, at least for about 20 minutes. They are also available in the form of hot-oil treatments or protein packs.
The use of deep conditioners may include the application of heat, because warmth causes the small breaks holes in the hair shaft to enlarge. Deep conditioners work very well for damaged hair. Once a month is what experts recommend.
Leave-In Conditioners
These cover the gamut of blow-drying lotions, hair glazes, and hair thickeners. These are applied o shampooed, towel-dried hair and not removed until the next washing. These products increase the shine in dull hair but do nothing for split ends or frizziness.
Instant Conditioners
Meant to be used straight from the bottle as they are premixed, these are to be applied immediately after shampooing. Instant conditioners usually contain additives including herbal extracts, aloe, vitamins, balsam, and lanolin. These give sheen to the hair, but are only mildly conditioning.
source:http://www.dotcomwomen.com/beauty/hair-conditioners.shtml