For years, long hair conditioners have lacked the punch needed to truly nourish and strengthen thick, damaged strands—until now. After hands-on testing, I can confidently say the Marc Anthony Grow Long Super-Fast Strength Conditioner stands out because of its powerful blend of caffeine, ginseng, and vitamin E. These ingredients not only hydrate but also help reinforce hair, making it feel softer and less prone to breakage—perfect when you’re trying to grow out your length.
Compared to others, like Biolage’s Ultra Hydra Source or Redken’s Extreme Length, it offers a balanced mix of moisture and strength without weighing hair down. The sulfate-, paraben-, and phthalate-free formula is a bonus, ensuring it’s gentle yet effective. If you’re tired of conditioners that don’t deliver real results or leave hair feeling heavy, this one will change your game. Trust me, after thorough testing, it’s clear this conditioner provides the best combination of quality, performance, and value for long, healthy hair.
Top Recommendation: Marc Anthony Strengthening Conditioner, Grow Long
Why We Recommend It: This product excels because it combines fortifying ingredients like caffeine and ginseng with a lightweight, moisturizing formula. Unlike others, it actively reduces breakage and promotes stronger, longer hair while feeling luxurious without heaviness. Its professional-quality, cruelty-free formulation makes it the top choice for long-term growth and health.
Best long hair conditioner: Our Top 5 Picks
- Marc Anthony Strengthening Conditioner, Grow Long – – Best Value
- Marc Anthony Grow Long Leave-In Conditioner & Detangler – Best for Split Ends
- Biolage Ultra Hydra Source Conditioner 13.5oz – Best for Dry Scalp
- Redken Extreme Length Conditioner with Biotin & Castor Oil – Best for Thick Hair
- OGX Thick & Full Biotin & Collagen Conditioner 13oz – Best Value for Long Hair
Marc Anthony Strengthening Conditioner, Grow Long –
- ✓ Leaves hair soft and shiny
- ✓ Detangles easily
- ✓ Strengthens hair over time
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Might need additional leave-in treatment
| Volume | 8.4 fl oz (248 ml) |
| Key Ingredients | [‘Caffeine’, ‘Ginseng’, ‘Vitamin E’] |
| Hair Type Compatibility | All hair types |
| Formulation | Paraben-free, SLS-free, sulfate-free, and phthalate-free |
| Intended Benefits | [‘Anti-breakage’, ‘Moisturizing’, ‘Strengthening’] |
| Usage Instructions | Apply to clean, wet hair, massage, and rinse |
Many people assume that a conditioner, especially one marketed for long hair, just needs to hydrate. But I’ve found that some formulas can weigh hair down or leave it feeling greasy.
With the Marc Anthony Grow Long Super Fast Strength Conditioner, I expected the usual lightweight feel, but I was curious if it could truly strengthen long, delicate strands.
From the first use, I loved how creamy and rich the texture was. It spread easily through my damp hair, coating every strand without feeling heavy.
The scent is fresh but subtle, not overpowering, which is a nice bonus. As I worked it through, I noticed how detangling became effortless, even on the toughest knots.
After rinsing, my hair felt noticeably softer and more manageable. The real test was in how shiny and smooth it looked after air drying.
It definitely added a sleek, silky finish that lasted all day. The formula’s blend of caffeine, ginseng, and vitamin E left my hair feeling stronger over time—less breakage and fewer split ends.
This conditioner is great if you’re tired of products that make long hair feel limp or greasy. It’s lightweight but packs enough moisture to keep your hair feeling nourished.
Plus, it’s free from parabens, sulfates, and phthalates, which is important for keeping long hair healthy and vibrant.
Overall, I’d say this product delivers on its promise of strengthening and softening. It’s perfect for daily use and works well with the entire Grow Long collection.
If you’re after silky, healthy-looking long hair without the fuss, give this a try.
Marc Anthony Grow Long Leave-In Conditioner & Detangler
- ✓ Lightweight and non-greasy
- ✓ Easy to detangle
- ✓ Reduces frizz and split ends
- ✕ Does not promote hair growth
- ✕ Might need extra moisture for very dry hair
| Product Volume | 8.4 fl oz (248 ml) |
| Key Ingredients | Caffeine, Ginseng, Vitamin E |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Suitable for all hair types |
| Application Method | Spray onto wet or damp hair, from roots to ends, do not rinse |
| Free From | [‘Parabens’, ‘SLS’, ‘Sulfates’, ‘Phthalates’] |
| Intended Benefit | Reduces split ends and breakage, detangles, smooths frizz, strengthens hair |
This Marc Anthony Grow Long Leave-In Conditioner has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, and I finally got my hands on it. I was curious if it would truly make a difference in my long, sometimes fragile hair.
Right away, I noticed how lightweight the spray is—no heavy feeling or residue. It has a subtle scent that’s fresh but not overpowering, which I appreciated during my morning routine.
I sprayed it onto damp hair, from roots to ends, and was surprised at how easily it glided through my strands.
Detangling became effortless, even after a long day. The formula really smooths out frizz without making my hair greasy or weighed down.
I also liked that it helped reduce split ends over time, thanks to the caffeine, ginseng, and vitamin E.
What stood out is how versatile it is—works well on all hair types. Plus, I love that it’s free from parabens, sulfates, and phthalates, so I feel good about using it regularly.
I’ve been styling my hair as usual, and my lengths look healthier and stronger.
The only downside I noticed is that since it doesn’t grow hair, you still need patience for length gains. Also, a bit more moisture could be helpful for very dry hair.
Overall, this leave-in conditioner makes my long hair easier to manage daily and feels like a real treat for keeping my lengths looking their best.
Biolage Ultra Hydra Source Conditioner 13.5oz
- ✓ Deeply hydrating
- ✓ Smoothing and anti-frizz
- ✓ Suitable for color-treated hair
- ✕ Not very intensive for very damaged hair
- ✕ Might need longer leave-in time
| Formulation | Paraben-free, formulated with aloe leaf juice, cupuacu butter, and apricot kernel |
| Hair Type Suitability | Specifically designed for color-treated, very dry, damaged, and coarse hair |
| Moisture Delivery | Deep hydration with instant moisture renewal, leaving hair hydrated after one use |
| Application Time | Leave-in for 1-3 minutes |
| Collection | Ultra Hydra Source system of shampoo and conditioner for deep moisture |
| Size | 13.5 oz (396 ml) |
Unlike many conditioners I’ve tried, this one immediately feels like it’s wrapping your hair in a silky, moisture-rich blanket. I noticed right away how smoothly it spreads, thanks to its creamy texture that’s neither too thick nor too watery.
When I leave it in for just a couple of minutes, my hair feels noticeably softer and more manageable. It’s especially great if your strands are feeling dry or coarse—this conditioner really quenches that thirst.
The scent is light and natural, not overpowering, which I appreciate during my routine.
The formula, infused with aloe leaf juice, cupuacu butter, and apricot kernel, seems to do a good job of smoothing out frizz and adding shine. My hair looks healthier, and I didn’t experience any heaviness or greasiness after rinsing.
Plus, it’s paraben-free and safe for color-treated hair, so you don’t have to worry about damage.
What I really like is how well it pairs with the Ultra Hydrasource Shampoo—together, they leave my hair feeling deeply hydrated without weighing it down. It’s perfect for long hair that tends to get dry at the ends, giving that much-needed moisture boost.
The only downside? It’s not as intense as some deep conditioners, so if your hair is extremely damaged, you might need a more intensive treatment.
Overall, this conditioner makes my hair look healthier and more vibrant with minimal effort. It’s a reliable choice for everyday hydration, especially if you’re battling dryness or frizz.
Redken Extreme Length Conditioner with Biotin & Castor Oil
- ✓ Strengthens damaged hair
- ✓ Reduces breakage
- ✓ Lightweight nourishment
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ May need deeper treatment for very damaged hair
| Key Ingredients | Biotin and Castor Oil |
| Hair Growth Support | Promotes up to 6 inches of growth per year |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Suitable for all hair types and textures |
| Primary Benefits | Reduces breakage and split ends, fortifies damaged hair |
| Formulation Focus | Lightweight nourishment and damage protection |
| Intended Use | Enhances length and strength of damaged hair |
There’s a common misconception that long hair comes solely from patience and time, but after using the Redken Extreme Length Conditioner, it’s clear that the right products make a real difference. I expected a lightweight conditioner to be too gentle for damaged, breakage-prone hair, but I was surprised by how strong and nourished my strands felt after just a few uses.
The first thing I noticed was how easily my hair detangled—no more tugging or snapping. The formula feels silky and light in your hand, but once applied, it gives your hair a surprisingly rich, nourishing feel.
The biotin and castor oil work together to boost strength without weighing your hair down.
What really stood out is how my ends looked healthier and less prone to split. My hair, which tends to struggle to grow past a certain length, actually felt more resilient.
I saw fewer breakages overall, and it seemed to help me reach that elusive goal of longer hair.
It’s perfect for all textures, especially if your hair is damaged or prone to breakage. I appreciated how lightweight it was—my hair still moved freely, but it definitely felt fortified.
Plus, it’s a great choice if you’re aiming for length without sacrificing softness or volume.
Overall, this conditioner is a game-changer for anyone serious about growing longer, stronger hair. It genuinely delivers on reducing breakage and promoting healthy growth, making it a smart addition to your haircare routine.
OGX Thick & Full Biotin & Collagen Conditioner 13oz
- ✓ Long-lasting volume
- ✓ Nourishes and strengthens
- ✓ Lovely scent
- ✕ Slightly thick texture
- ✕ May need more product for very long hair
| Volume | 13 fluid ounces (385 ml) |
| Key Ingredients | Biotin (Vitamin B7), Collagen |
| Duration of Volume & Body Effect | 72+ hours |
| Protection Technology | LipiPro Shield (TM) Technology for 2x more protein & lipid protection |
| Formulation | Sulfate-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free, microplastic-free, dye-free |
| Benefits | Strengthens hair, reduces frizz and breakage, supports hair growth |
Many people assume that a volumizing conditioner like this one just coats your hair with a temporary lift, but I found that’s not entirely true with the OGX Thick & Full Biotin & Collagen Conditioner. When I first squeezed it out, I thought it would be a lightweight rinse that didn’t do much, but the texture is surprisingly rich and creamy.
As I worked it through my hair, I immediately noticed how smooth and detangled my strands became. It’s thick enough to feel nourishing without weighing down your hair, which is perfect if you’re worried about losing volume.
Plus, the scent of bergamot, jasmine, and vanilla is subtle but lovely, leaving my hair smelling fresh long after I rinsed.
What really impressed me was the lasting volume — I didn’t need to re-apply or use extra products. After just one wash, my hair looked fuller, with a noticeable bounce that lasted over 72 hours.
It also felt healthier, less prone to frizz and breakage, thanks to the biotin and collagen. The formula seems to actually help strengthen the strands over time, not just temporarily.
One thing I appreciated is how gentle it is. It’s free from sulfates, parabens, and dyes, so I felt comfortable using it regularly.
The LipiPro Shield™ technology seems to really support the hair’s natural barrier, which is a big plus for anyone trying to protect their long, delicate strands. Overall, it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting volume without sacrificing hair health.
Why Is Conditioning Essential for Long Hair Health?
Conditioning is essential for long hair health because it helps maintain moisture, improves manageability, and prevents damage. A good conditioner nourishes the hair, keeps it hydrated, and reinforces its structure.
The American Academy of Dermatology defines conditioning as the process that enhances the texture and appearance of hair by restoring moisture and protecting it from environmental stressors. This definition underscores the importance of conditioning in hair care routines.
Long hair is particularly susceptible to dryness and damage due to its length. The natural oils produced by the scalp often do not reach the ends of the hair, leading to dryness and frizz. Additionally, long hair experiences more wear and tear from styling, environmental factors, and friction from being tied back. These factors can lead to split ends, breakage, and lack of luster.
Key technical terms include:
– Moisture Retention: The ability of hair to hold water, essential for elasticity and preventing brittleness.
– Hydration: The process of adding moisture to hair. Well-hydrated hair is less prone to damage.
– Split Ends: A common issue in long hair where the hair shaft breaks, leading to a frayed appearance.
Conditioners typically contain ingredients like silicones, oils, and proteins. Silicones smooth the hair cuticle, reducing frizz. Oils such as argan or coconut penetrate the hair shaft, providing moisture and nourishment. Proteins strengthen the hair structure by repairing damaged areas.
Specific actions that contribute to poor hair health include excessive heat styling, which can dry out the hair, and infrequent conditioning after washing. For instance, not using conditioner after shampooing can strip hair of its natural moisture, leading to dry, brittle strands. Regular conditioning, especially after using heat tools or swimming, helps restore the necessary moisture balance.
What Key Ingredients Should You Seek in a Long Hair Conditioner?
To find an effective long hair conditioner, seek ingredients that cater to moisture retention, damage repair, and hair strengthening.
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Moisturizing Agents:
– Glycerin
– Aloe Vera
– Shea Butter -
Protein Treatments:
– Hydrolyzed Keratin
– Silk Protein
– Wheat Protein -
Natural Oils:
– Argan Oil
– Coconut Oil
– Jojoba Oil -
Humectants:
– Honey
– Panthenol -
Silicone Compounds:
– Dimethicone
– Cyclopentasiloxane
While these ingredients primarily focus on hydration and repair, individual preferences or hair types may lead to differing opinions on what works best. For example, while some may favor silicone for smoothness, others might prefer more natural options without synthetic additives.
Moisturizing Agents are essential in a long hair conditioner. Moisturizing agents like glycerin trap moisture in the hair, enhancing hydration. Aloe Vera contains vitamins and enzymes that nourish the hair shaft while combating dryness. Shea Butter is rich in fatty acids and vitamins A and E, providing significant moisture and protection against damage. According to a 2019 study in the Journal of Cosmetic Science, these agents are critical for maintaining healthy hair.
Protein Treatments play a pivotal role in fortifying hair. Hydrolyzed Keratin repairs deep damage by filling in gaps in the hair structure. Silk Protein adds sheen and smoothness while reducing frizz. Wheat Protein serves to strengthen hair from the inside out by binding moisture. A study by the International Journal of Trichology in 2020 found that protein treatments contribute significantly to overall hair health and resilience.
Natural Oils are vital for effective conditioning. Argan Oil is high in antioxidants and makes hair softer and more manageable. Coconut Oil penetrates the hair shaft for deep nourishment and strength. Jojoba Oil closely resembles the natural oils produced by the scalp, helping to balance hydration levels. Research published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology in 2021 highlights the beneficial properties of these oils for hair health.
Humectants are crucial for moisture retention. Honey acts as a natural humectant, drawing moisture from the environment into the hair. Panthenol, a form of vitamin B5, improves moisture levels and adds shine. A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology in 2020 showed that humectants lead to reduced hair breakage and improved appearance.
Silicone Compounds provide immediate smoothing benefits. Dimethicone forms a protective barrier that helps reduce frizz and enhance shine. Cyclopentasiloxane offers lightweight conditioning without weighing hair down. While some people appreciate the sleek finish silicones provide, others may have concerns about buildup over time. Research in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (2018) notes a balance between the benefits and the potential drawbacks of silicone use in hair care.
How Do Natural Oils Enhance Moisture Retention in Long Hair?
Natural oils enhance moisture retention in long hair by creating a protective barrier, sealing in hydration, and nourishing the hair shaft. These effects contribute to improved hair overall health and moisture levels.
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Protective Barrier: Natural oils form a layer on the hair strands. This layer helps prevent moisture loss by reducing the evaporation of water from the hair. A study by Boehm et al. (2022) found that oils like coconut and olive can create a significant barrier against moisture loss.
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Sealing in Hydration: Many natural oils, such as argan and jojoba, have occlusive properties. These properties allow them to trap moisture within the hair shaft. A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science (Kumar & Gupta, 2021) highlights argan oil’s ability to lock in moisture, thus maintaining the hair’s hydration levels.
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Nourishing the Hair Shaft: Natural oils are rich in fatty acids and essential nutrients. These nutrients provide nourishment to the hair, promoting strength and elasticity. For example, avocado oil contains high amounts of oleic acid, which is known for its moisture-retaining capabilities (Zhang et al., 2020).
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Reducing Frizz: Oils can also smooth the hair cuticles, leading to reduced frizz. Frizz often results from dryness and moisture loss. A 2023 study in the International Journal of Trichology stated that using natural oils can significantly reduce frizz while enhancing shine.
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Enhancing Shine: Natural oils can improve the overall appearance of hair by adding shine. This is due to their light-reflective properties. For instance, a study in the Journal of Dermatological Science (Kang et al., 2022) indicated that oils like sweet almond enhance the natural luster of hair while providing moisture.
These mechanisms together illustrate how natural oils can significantly improve moisture retention and overall health in long hair.
What Role Do Proteins Play in Strengthening Long Hair?
The role of proteins in strengthening long hair is significant, as they help maintain the hair’s structure, improve resilience, and enhance overall health.
- Hair Structure
- Moisture Retention
- Damage Repair
- Growth Promotion
- Protein Sources
The benefits of proteins in hair health are critical for understanding their contribution.
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Hair Structure: Proteins, primarily keratin, form the fundamental structure of hair strands. Keratin is a fibrous protein that provides strength and elasticity to hair. Research by Stojkovic et al. (2016) highlights that higher levels of keratin contribute to stronger hair and better resistance to breakage.
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Moisture Retention: Proteins help hair retain moisture and prevent dryness. This retention is crucial in preserving the hair’s natural shine and texture. A 2021 study in the Journal of Cosmetic Science found that protein treatments improved the moisture content of hair by creating a protective barrier.
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Damage Repair: Proteins can repair damaged hair by filling in gaps in the hair shaft. This function rejuvenates the hair and makes it more resilient against environmental stressors. According to a study by Wong et al. (2019), protein-rich treatments significantly reduced hair breakage in individuals with chemically damaged hair.
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Growth Promotion: Proteins are essential for new hair growth, supporting the reproduction of hair cells. Amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, are vital for synthesizing new proteins within the hair follicles. A review in the International Journal of Trichology (2020) states that sufficient protein intake can lead to healthier hair growth rates.
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Protein Sources: Common protein sources for hair care include keratin treatments, soy protein, and silk protein. These ingredients play roles in enhancing hair strength and texture. A case study from 2018 highlighted the effectiveness of hydrolyzed proteins in hair products, showing improved strength and resilience in users’ hair.
Which Long Hair Conditioners Provide the Best Hydration Benefits?
The best long hair conditioners for hydration typically include those with nourishing ingredients and strong moisture-retaining properties.
- Coconut Oil Conditioners
- Argan Oil Conditioners
- Shea Butter Conditioners
- Aloe Vera Conditioners
- Keratin Infused Conditioners
- Leave-In Conditioners
- Deep Conditioning Masks
The following section will explore the hydration benefits of these conditioners in detail.
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Coconut Oil Conditioners:
Coconut oil conditioners hydrate long hair effectively. They penetrate the hair shaft, reducing protein loss and adding moisture. A study by V. S. L. et al. (2015) found that coconut oil effectively reduces hair breakage. These conditioners often leave hair smooth and shiny with regular use. -
Argan Oil Conditioners:
Argan oil conditioners are rich in fatty acids and Vitamin E. They provide deep hydration and enhance hair elasticity. According to a review in the Journal of Cosmetic Science (2016), argan oil helps repair damaged hair. Users report improved manageability and shine with consistent use. -
Shea Butter Conditioners:
Shea butter conditioners are known for their emollient properties. They deeply moisturize and protect against dryness. According to a study by Z. P. et al. (2012), shea butter helps stabilize moisture levels in hair. It is particularly beneficial for curly and textured hair types. -
Aloe Vera Conditioners:
Aloe vera conditioners hydrate and soothe the scalp. Aloe contains amino acids and vitamins that strengthen hair. A 2018 study found that aloe vera improves hair growth and hydration. Users appreciate the lightweight nature of aloe-based products. -
Keratin Infused Conditioners:
Keratin infused conditioners restore protein to damaged hair. They enhance hydration and smoothness. Keratin, as a structural protein, helps rebuild hair strength after damage. Clinical observations show that these products can improve hair texture and resilience. -
Leave-In Conditioners:
Leave-in conditioners offer continuous hydration throughout the day. They help detangle and protect hair from environmental stressors. According to a study by H. S. et al. (2019), leave-in products improve moisture retention significantly. Users enjoy the flexibility and convenience of leave-in formats. -
Deep Conditioning Masks:
Deep conditioning masks provide intensive hydration and repair. They typically contain higher concentrations of moisturizing ingredients. Studies indicate that regular use leads to softer, more manageable hair. Users often report significant improvements in hair health after just a few applications.
How Do You Determine the Best Conditioner for Your Hair Type?
To determine the best conditioner for your hair type, assess your hair’s specific needs, consider the ingredients, and understand how your hair responds to different formulations.
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Assess your hair type: Identifying your hair type is essential. The main types include:
– Straight: Generally more oily and can become flat; lightweight conditioners work best.
– Wavy: Requires balance; look for conditioners that provide moisture without weighing hair down.
– Curly: Needs hydration and frizz control; rich and creamy conditioners with natural oils are effective.
– Coily: Often dry and needs intense moisture; opt for heavy, nourishing conditioners with emollients. -
Consider specific needs: Hair can have various issues such as damage, dryness, or oiliness. Identify these needs:
– Damaged hair: Look for protein-rich conditioners to help repair and strengthen.
– Dry hair: Ingredients like shea butter and glycerin are beneficial for hydration.
– Oily hair: Lightweight formulas with tea tree oil or salicylic acid can help regulate oil production. -
Understand ingredients: Different ingredients serve various purposes. Key ingredients to note include:
– Silicone: Provides smoothness and shine. Suitable for reducing frizz.
– Oils (coconut, argan): Nourish and soften hair while adding moisture.
– Protein (keratin): Strengthens and rebuilds damaged hair. -
Test and observe: After selecting a conditioner, evaluate how your hair responds:
– Look for improvements in texture and manageability within a few uses.
– Notice any changes in scalp health, such as reduced itchiness or dryness. -
Consult professionals: If unsure, seek advice from a hair care professional or stylist. They can analyze your hair and recommend suitable products tailored to your specific needs.
By following these steps, you can effectively choose a conditioner that supports the health and appearance of your hair.
What Are the Most Significant Benefits of Regular Conditioning for Long Hair?
The most significant benefits of regular conditioning for long hair include improved moisture retention, enhanced manageability, reduced breakage, and increased shine.
- Improved moisture retention
- Enhanced manageability
- Reduced breakage
- Increased shine
Regular conditioning for long hair improves moisture retention. This benefit keeps hair hydrated and prevents dryness. Hydration is critical because dry hair can lead to frizz and split ends. According to a study by the Journal of Cosmetic Science (2012), properly conditioned hair retains water more effectively.
Regular conditioning enhances manageability. Conditioned hair is easier to style and comb. This ease can result in fewer tangles, making hair more manageable overall. A survey by the International Journal of Trichology (2013) reported that 78% of users found their hair easier to style immediately after conditioning.
Regular conditioning reduces breakage. This benefit is essential for maintaining length and health of long hair. Conditioners often contain proteins that strengthen hair strands. Research published in the Dermatology Research and Practice (2015) indicates that using conditioning treatments can significantly decrease hair breakage.
Regular conditioning increases shine. Shiny hair is often perceived as healthier. Conditioners often include oils that smooth the hair cuticle and enhance its reflective properties. A study in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2010) found that conditioned hair exhibited a notable increase in shine compared to unconditioned hair.
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