Dry hair? Discover the best conditioner to keep your locks looking soft and smooth

Repair and protect tired tresses with hairecare that nourishes and strengthens.

best conditioner for dry hair

by Natalie Knowles |
Updated on

When it comes to getting older you might find that your hair has begun to feel a bit dryer, wiry and even lost its shine. Before you rush off to the hairdressers to get the chop, read out tried and tested guide to the best conditioner for dry hair. We can't stop the effects of ageing, but there are some fantastic products to level up beauty routines and slow down signs of maturity. As we age, hair loses its ability to retain moisture, so can becomes dry and brittle. A solution to this is to pair a deeply nourishing conditioner with the best shampoo for dry hair and you have a winning combination that deeply hydrates from root-to-tip.

Thinning hair shafts and greyness can result in hairdressers suggesting colour treatments or wearing a shorter style. But what if you're not ready to let go of your long hair? A good diet comes first, embracing the best foods for hair growth. Next, make conditioners, intensive hair masks and serums an essential part of your haircare routine.

Best conditioner for dry hair at a glance

Best argan oil conditioner

Hask Argan Oil Repairing Conditioner

Best conditioner to lock in moisture

Kerasilk Repairing Conditioner

Best probiotic conditioner

Odylique Chamomile & Coconut Conditioner

Best nourishing conditioner for brittle hair

Lavera Repair and Care Conditioner

The first step is to repair any damage, such as split-ends and breakage. Look for keratin and collagen in conditioning treatments, as these actively reverse and protect from heat styling and environmental exposure. Conditioners don't necessarily promote hair to grow, but there are specific shampoos for hair growth available. What they can do is lock in moisture and strengthen hair by providing essential vitamins, oils and proteins to make hair more resilient.

You can see and feel the benefits of a good conditioner. Most products are now sulfate-free and contain naturally-derived elements. Argan oil is great for enhancing shine, and is most definitely an ingredient to go for if your hair is feeling coarse and dry. Also, hyaluronic acid – a skincare favourite – is also found in some moisturising conditioners. It's lightweight and hydrates without weighing fine hair down. Naturally, conditioners detangle hair and when paired with a brush for thinning hair it's a positive step you can take to maintaining beautiful hair at any age.

How we tested these conditioners

Our writer Natalie Knowles sourced and tested all these conditioners on her own hair and enlisted the help of her 62-year-old mum Angela. They both tested these products over an extended period of time and reported back on factors such as; the fragrance, how it softened, hydrated and smoothed frizz, value for money and how shiny it left their hair.

All our reviews are honest and genuine and we’ve included both the positive and negative comments received from our reviewers.

Best conditioner for dry hair

Tested

Best argan oil conditioner

Hask Argan Oil Repairing ConditionerYours/Hask
Price: £11.89
Alternative retailers
Walmart$5.27View offer
Target$5.29View offer

Fortify dry or treated hair with Hask Argan Oil Repairing Conditioner. It's formulated to strengthen, repair and restore hair. Argan oil has anti-aging properties and deeply moisturises hair. If you're suffering with brittleness or split ends, Hask's range repairing haircare is a great value option that's effective too. With a blend of argan oil and shea butter, the conditioner improves elasticity and smooths hair.

Our reviewer, Commercial Content Writer Natalie Knowles, aged 40, says: "I have dry, colour-treated hair. Hask Argan Oil Repairing Conditioner was lovely and nourishing and left my hair frizz-free, moisturised and soft. All three Hask Argan Oil products are orange scented and really pleasant. Using Hask Argan Oil Repairing Shampoo resulted in clean, soft and tangle-free hair. I finished with Hask Argan Oil 5 in 1 Leave in Conditioner Spray, to condition and detangle hair. It also acts as a heat protection spray for when you're using hair stylers. In addition, it tames frizz, reduces breakage and adds shine. Plus, like all the Hask products in this range, it smells divine.

"All-in-all, I thoroughly recommend Hask's Argan Oil range for dry, damaged or treated hair. It's affordable and effective."

Pros

  • Great value for money
  • Effective: leaves hair feeling soft and nourished
  • Wonderful scent, like oranges
  • Colour-safe formula for treatment hair

Cons

  • If you have oily or fine hair, argan oil can weigh hair down
Amount per bottle:355ml
Hair types:Dry, damaged and colour-treated hair
Ingredients:Aqua, Cetyl alcohol, Behentrimonium chloride, Glycerin, Isopropyl palmitate, Argania spinosa kernel oil, Butyrospermum parkii (shea) butter, Olea europaea (olive) fruit oil, Cocos nucifera (coconut) oil, Glycine soja (soybean) protein, Hydrolyzed corn protein, Hydrolyzed soy protein, Hydrolyzed keratin, Panthenol, Stearyl alcohol, Dimethiconol, Dimethicone, Phenoxyethanol, Citric acid, Cetremonium chloride, Cyclopentasiloxane, Caprylyl glycol, Potassium sorbate, Isopropyl alcohol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium chloride, Sodium cocoyl glutamate, Sodium benzoate, Leuconostoc/radish root ferment filtrate, Cyclohexasiloxane, Cyclotetrasiloxane, Parfum, Benzyl benzoate, Limonene
  • Recyclable packaging
  • All of Hask's products are sulfate, paraben and cruelty free
  • Protects against breakage and split-ends

Tested

Best conditioner to lock in moisture

Kerasilk Repairing ConditionerYours/Kerasilk
Price: £34.00

Kerasilk Repairing Conditioner is a vegan formulation that contains Biomimetic Silk & Hyaloveil®, to moisturise and protect hair. It claims to reduce breakage and nourish brittle hair, so strands are fortified, root-to-tip.

Our reviewer, Commercial Content Writer Natalie Knowles, aged 40, says: "My hair is dry and I've recently started having it coloured to hide my grey. This repairing conditioner is just want I need in order to soften, revitalise and strengthen my colour treated hair.

"It has a lovely subtle scent and luxuriantly absorbs into hair. Upon rinsing, my hair felt softer, more supple and silkier. I was even complimented on my hair looking less frizzy than usual. I'm convinced enough to continue using Kerasilk."

Pros

  • Repairing conditioner, containing a form of hyaluronic acid (Hyaloveil®) which locks in moisture
  • Highly nourishing and restores elasticity
  • Visible results after one wash

Cons

  • Premium product so it is a bit expensive
Amount per bottle:200ml
Hair types:Dry and damaged hair
Ingredients:Water/Aqua/Eau, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetrimonium Chloride, Isopropyl Myristate, Glycerin, Panthenol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate, Citric Acid, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Extract, Tocopherol, Lactobacillus Ferment, Phenoxyethanol, Fragrance/Parfum, Hexyl Cinnamal
  • 98.2% natural ingredients
  • Free from silicones and sulphates
  • Vegan formulation

Tested

Best probiotic conditioner

Odylique Chamomile & Coconut ConditionerYours/Odylique

If you suffer from dermatitis, or a treatment has resulted in a sore scalp, this Odylique Chamomile & Coconut Conditioner is a soothing formulation to ease sensitive skin. It contains essential amino acids and chicory extract that acts as a prebiotic to balance the scalp's microbiota.

In addition, it's a multi-tasking haircare product that acts as a detangling treatment, cleansing conditioner, split end repair cream, hair mask and scalp conditioner. It's packed with natural botanicals and oils, including smoothing shea butter, virgin coconut oil, moisture-locking aloe vera and soothing chamomile and calendula.

Our reviewer, product tester Angela Knowles, aged 62, says: "This had a distinct scent – think herbs, forests and trees – demonstrating how much natural goodness is in the formulation. I suffer with sensitive skin and I've been using chamomile as a natural remedy to calm down flare-ups but I've never tried it in haircare products.

"This Odylique conditioner has luxuriously smooth texture with a pearlescent shine. It absorbs well into hair and is thoroughly nourishing. Also, it was mild and soothing on my scalp. Plus, I used it during very hot weather... I was complimented that my hair looked tamer than usual, so I'm very pleased with this product."

Odylique launched the world's first certified organic shampoo – Gentle Herb Shampoo – almost 20 years ago. It became a cult product for people who have sensitive scalps.

Pros

  • Hypoallergenic and artificial fragrance-free, so it's kind on sensitive skin
  • Soothing for irritated or sensitive scalps
  • Strengthens, smooths and detangles hair
  • Long-standing and trusted organic brand

Cons

  • The scent is distinct and quite herbal, which might be unusual for some
Amount per bottle:140ml
Hair types:Irritated, sensitive scalps
Ingredients:Aqua, Brassica Alcohol (and) Brassicyl Valinate Esylate, Cetearyl alcohol, Inulin & Fructose, Cocos nucifera oil, Shea butter ethyl esters, Glycerine, Xylityl sesquicaprylate, Alcohol, Aloe barbadensis leaf juice powder, Calendula officinalis flower extract, Chamomila recutita flower extract, Cocos nucifera fruit extract, Equisetum arvense leaf extract, Anhydroxylitol, Coco glucoside
  • Silicone-free
  • Certified organic

Tested

Best nourishing conditioner for brittle hair

Lavera Repair and Care ConditionerYours/Lavera
Price: £16.98
Alternative retailers
Walmart$21.81View offer

Lavera Repair and Care Conditioner is an all-natural nourishing conditioner with organic ingredients to repair brittle hair. It's a good choice if you've over-bleached your hair or are just finding that your hair is getting dryer with age.

Our reviewer, Commercial Content Writer Natalie Knowles, aged 40, says: "I really like the fragrance of this conditioner it smells like honey and texture-wise it's extremely rich – a touch oily – due to the organic macadamia and argan oils. If your hair is in need of intensive replenishment, this conditioner provides repair and deep care. I enjoy using this conditioner because I'm particularly fond of its aroma and how my hair drinks it up; it feels like a treat.

"I can run my fingers through my hair and it feels stronger and tangle-free. Albeit, if I was nit-picking, I'd say my hair felt slightly heavier and a touch oily. I'd recommend it for extremely parched, brittle hair, but not for fine hair. If in doubt, less is more with this conditioner."

For an additional intensive treatment, try the new hair mask Lavera Basis Sensitiv Moisture and Care Hair Treatment. It contains organic aloe vera and organic jojoba to intensively, yet gently moisturise hair.

Pros

  • Rich and creamy texture that absorbs into wet hair like nectar
  • Smells heavenly, like a rich honey
  • Nourishing and natural formulation that's kind to hair
  • Repairs extremely stressed hair

Cons

  • Can make fine hair a bit heavy and oily
Amount per bottle:200ml
Hair types:Dry and damaged hair
Ingredients:Water (Aqua), Alcohol denat., Behenyl Alcohol, Distearoylethyl Dimonium Chloride, Dodecane, Macadamia Integrifolia Seed Oil, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Extract, Chenopodium Quinoa Seed Extract, Arctium Lappa Root Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder, Pisum Sativum (Pea) Peptide, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Glycerin, Inulin, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Undecylenate, Fragrance (Parfum), Limonene, Benzyl Alcohol
  • Lavera conditioners are paraben-free, silicone-free, sulphate-free
  • All-natural, organic and vegan ingredients

Tested

Best repairing conditioner

Pantene Molecular Bond Repair testedYours/Pantene

Pantene Molecular Bond Repair contains the highest concentration of Pro-V nutrients versus previous Pantene products. Up to 5,000 concentrated Pro-V Nutri Pearls dissolve and release nutrients into the hair, regenerating strands, strengthening and protecting hair structure at a molecular level. Damage is reversed and hair looks healthier.

Our reviewer, Commercial Content Writer Natalie Knowles, aged 40, says: "I've been out in the sun a lot lately and concerned that it's taking a toll on my hair. So, I was keen to try this repairing conditioner. It's a lovely rich cream conditioner with a gorgeous coconut fragrance. It absorbs into hair without feeling greasy. For the price, I'm genuinely impressed with the results. My hair feels softer and brittle flyaways have been tamed. I'm quite staggered by how it's brought out the shine in my coloured hair. All-in-all hair was noticeably improved after one use and it's a conditioner I will continue to use."

This conditioner can be purchased as part of Pantene’s New Molecular Bond Repair range. Priced at £6-10.

Pros

  • Great value for money
  • Noticeable results after one wash, hair is soft and shiny
  • Backed by science: the formulation is certified by the Swiss Vitamin Institute

Cons

  • Small bottle that is easy to get through fast with daily use
Amount per bottle:160ml
Hair types:Damaged hair
Ingredients:Aqua, Stearyl Alcohol, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Cetyl Alcohol, Parfum, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Oleic Acid, Benzyl Alcohol, Dicetyldimonium Chloride, Isopropyl Alcohol, Sodium Benzoate, Panthenol, Panthenyl Ethyl Ether, Propylene Glycol, Disodium EDTA, Citric Acid, Hexyl Cinnamal, Histidine, Benzyl Salicylate, Limonene, Linalool, Coumarin, Geraniol, Biotin

Tested

Best value conditioner

Head & Shoulders Derma X Pro Moisture ConditionerYours/Head & Shoulders
Price: £4 (was £6)

www.boots.com

For hair that's been over-treated and is styled everyday, this conditioner is an effective way to reduce breakage. It's infused with a ceramide complex and coconut oil to soothe dry and flaky scalps, plus it moisturises and detangles hair.

Use regularly to make hair fibres stronger. Head & Shoulders says you should see an improvement in hair quality in four weeks.

Our reviewer, product tester Angela Knowles, aged 62, says: "I've been suffering from dry hair and a sore scalp after bleaching my hair over a period of time. This conditioner was effective in making my hair feel soft and nourished. Straw-like brittle strands were calmed and now hair looks healthy. The conditioner has a distinct coconut fragrance and the texture is rich and creamy. For a sore scalp, this didn't quite do the trick and I needed a more medicated calming cream. Overwhelmingly, though this conditioner is super value for money and leaves hair feeling nourished and tangle-free."

For intense relief from a dry and flaky scalp, use Head & Shoulders DERMAXPRO Anti-Dandruff Scalp Treatment after shampoo and conditioner.

Pros

  • Great value for money – look out for 3 for 2 offers
  • Dermatologically tested to prove the active ingredients actually work
  • Rich and creamy texture that absorbs into hair
  • Hair is softer, nourished and frizz is tamed

Cons

  • It's very fragranced, which might not be to everyone's taste
Amount per bottle:220ml
Hair types:Dry hair and scalp
Ingredients:Aqua, Stearyl Alcohol, Behentrimonium Chloride, Cetyl Alcohol, Isopropyl Alcohol, Parfum, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Citric Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Benzyl Alcohol, Sodium Benzoate, Piroctone Olamine, Butylene Glycol, Coumarin, Hexyl Cinnamal, Polysorbate 20, Glycerin, Oryza Sativa Bran Extract, Cocos Nucifera Fruit Juice

Tested

Best all-natural conditioner

Superfood Shine ConditionerYours/Evolve Organic Beauty

Superfood Shine Conditioner is an all-natural frizz-fighting conditioner from Evolve Organic Beauty.
This conditioner is for normal hair, but it has a formulation that's very effective in improving hair health and shine for dry hair. It contains baobab proteins to boost softness and shine, while also protecting and strengthening hair. Pomegranate extract helps hair retain moisture, keeping it hydrated. Aloe vera soothes the scalp and shea butter moisturises dry hair. It's a certified organic product that comes in a 100 per cent recyclable bottle... but how good is it?

Our reviewer, Commercial Content Writer Natalie Knowles, aged 40, says: "I absolutely love this product. It has one of the best fragrances I've come across. It's zesty, sweet and herbal in a balanced aroma that reflects the natural ingredients that are in it. It's absolutely delicious to use – vanishing into hair without the faintest stickiness. When dry, my hair was glossier and whereas I normally have frizzy flyaways, my hair now falls in naturally bouncy curls. Without hesitation, I recommend this Superfood Shine Conditioner to restore lustre and volume to parched and brittle hair."

For even more intensive nourishment, follow with Evolve Organic Beauty's Nourishing Hair Elixir – dry hair serum.

Pros

  • Outstanding fragrance – both praised by our tester and in customer reviews
  • Certified organic with high quality natural ingredients
  • Very effective in hydrating and softening dry hair
  • Evolve is one of the UK's first plastic negative brands

Cons

  • Rather small bottle
Amount per bottle:250ml
Hair types:Normal hair
Ingredients:Aqua (water), Cetearyl alcohol, Coco-caprylate, Distearoylethyl dimonium chloride, Gluconolactone, Parfum (naturally derived fragrance), Hydrolyzed adansonia digitata (Baobab) seed extract, Punica granatum (pomegranate) fruit extract<em>, Aloe barbadensis leaf juice powder</em>, Helianthus annuus (sunflower) seed oil, Glycerin**, Polyglyceryl-6 stearate, Sodium benzoate, Polyglyceryl-6 behenate, Tocopherol, Calcium gluconate, Benzyl alcohol, Potassium sorbate, Citric acid, Citral, Geraniol, Limonene, Linalool
  • 99.3% ingredients of natural origin and 20.9% certified organic
  • Certified COSMOS organic, vegan and cruelty free
  • Made in the UK in small batches in Evolve Organic Beauty's eco lab

Tested

Best conditioner for floral fragrance

Herbal Essences Petal Soft RoseYours/Herbal Essences
Price: £3 (was £6)

www.ocado.com

Herbal Essences Petal Soft Rose claims to make dry and coarse hair feel three times more nourished, with naturally-derived ingredients and an enriching formula. Use this conditioner after shampoo and rinse as usual. Alternatively, if you use a slightly smaller amount it can be used as a leave-in conditioner. It's bouquet of roses fragrance comes from the famous rose fields of Grasse in France and leaves hair wonderfully scented.

Our reviewer, Commercial Content Writer Natalie Knowles, aged 40, says: "It has a really nuanced and lovely rose fragrance. The texture is rich and silky, absorbing into hair without feeling too oily or greasy. My hair felt soft and was beautifully fragranced. The conditioner's signature scent smells a lot more expensive than its price-point, and reminds me of L'Occitane Rose Hand Cream. Whilst not the most intensive conditioner, it's ample for normal to dry hair."

In short, this is an effective softening conditioner with a luxurious real rose essence with matching haircare products in the Herbal Essences Petal Soft range. Prices start from £2.50.

Herbal Essences Rose Shampoo + Hair Conditioner bundle is available from Amazon UK.

Pros

  • Makes dry hair feel silkier
  • Enjoy a mood-boosting floral fragrance that smells more expensive than it is
  • Great value for money

Cons

  • Really damaged hair will need a more intensive conditioner
Amount per bottle:250ml
Hair types:Dry, coarse hair
Ingredients:Aqua, Stearyl Alcohol, Behentrimonium Chloride, Cetyl Alcohol, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Parfum, Isopropyl Alcohol, Benzyl Alcohol, Sodium Benzoate, Disodium EDTA, Polysorbate 20, Citric Acid, Histidine, Hexyl Cinnamal, Geraniol, Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone
  • Silicone and sulfate free
  • Animal test-free and vegan
  • 96% natural origin

Tested

Best salon-quality conditioner for dry hair

Yours/Nine Yards

For glossy and hydrated hair Nine Yards Just Right Moisture Conditioner is another top option. Plus, this Swedish-made conditioner has an outstanding reusable geometric bottle that you just don't see in shops. Just Right Moisture Conditioner is formulated for dry, coarse or curly hair that's in need of intensive hydration, without weighing hair down. This deeply nourishing and moisture-retaining conditioner contains shea butter to soften brittle hair and fortify hair follicles.

Our reviewer, product tester Angela Knowles, aged 62, says: "I have coarse, dry and colour-treated hair, which is perfect for testing the USP of this smoothing and hydrating conditioner. On first impressions, the packaging is outstanding. Not only does it look good, it also feels lovely to hold with fingers and thumb. But, I'm not a huge fan of the fragrance; it's like a waft of perfume.

"It was used in conjunction with a Tea Tree Special Shampoo Bar. My husband complimented my hair and said it had more of a sheen than usual. Also, I have short hair and it can be a bit flyaway with my usual hair products. But, I felt that my hair sat better, without being greasy. Plus, I will proudly display the bottle on my vanity shelf – definitely a talking point for when we have guests!"

Alternatively, there is Nine Yards Your Move Repair Conditioner (£20.95) which is also available in a 300ml or 1,000ml bottle. It's specifically designed for chemically treated, damaged and weak hair. Its formulation includes Shea Butter, Green Tea, and Aloe Vera.

Pros

  • Outstanding presentation in a reusable bottle
  • Intensely moisturising and helps hair to retain moisture
  • Effective with noticeable results after one wash

Cons

  • Smells a bit perfumed
Amount per bottle:300ml or 1,000ml
Hair types:Curly and wavy, coarse
Ingredients:Contains natural extracts of Shea Butter, Broccoli Oil, Jasmine flower Extract, Green Tea and Aloe Vera
  • Made in Sweden
  • Vegan friendly
  • Cruelty free
  • No parabens

Tested

Best hair repair treatment for dry hair

Nine Yards Never Dull Repair TreatmentYours/Nine Yards

For deep and intensive hydration Nine Yards Never Dull Repair Treatment is a top choice. This Swedish brand creates functional and sustainable hair care products. They were originally designed for professional use, but these high-quality products are now available to all. The Never Dull Repair Treatment provides intensive restoration to dry, damaged and over-treated hair. It's rich in natural proteins that actively rebuild and strengthen hair. Coconut oil softens frizz and delivers a glossy shine, while aloe vera reconstructs the hair shaft. Nine Yards recommends using this treatment as a follow up to Nine Yards Your Move Repair Conditioner. Leave the repair treatment to do its stuff for between 5–15 minutes.

Our reviewer, product tester Angela Knowles, aged 62, says: "On first impressions the packaging is stylish. I love the matte grey tube and branding that looks like it belongs in a salon. Also, the tube feels lovely to hold and it dispenses the conditioner very well.

"It has a particularly pearlescent sheen and lightweight texture. It absorbed into hair without feeling greasy or heavy. After rinsing, I was impressed with how silky smooth my hair had become. I would be inclined to leave the treatment in for a bit longer and use over a period of time to get the full benefit of the reconstructing and strengthening treatment. I want to keep using this treatment."

Shop the full range of ethical hair products by Nine Yards.

Pros

  • Premium, salon-style packaging and branding
  • Protein-rich formula to strengthen and repair hair
  • Natural ingredients and brand with a sustainable ethos

Cons

  • Not widely available so hurry while it's in stock
Amount per bottle:250ml
Hair types:Dry, damaged
Ingredients:aloe vera, coconut oil, dimethicone, glycerin, green tea, keratin, lactic acid, oleic acid, olive oil, shea butter and stearic acid (full ingredients list is on the bottle)
  • Made in Sweden
  • Cruelty-free, vegan and no parabens

Tested

Best hydrating conditioner for dry hair

Yours/O&M

Spent too much time at the beach and now your hair is bleached and stressed by sun damage? Original Mineral Hydrate & Conquer Conditioner aims to protect hair to prevent the effects of environmental stressors and ageing. It's a nutrient-rich Australian product that claims to detangle, smooth frizz and give hair a lustrous shine. We love that the Face The Future website gives a breakdown of each ingredient, explaining the benefits. For example, shea butter and Irish moss extract have a moisturising and hydrating effect on hair. Additionally, citrus fruit extract has an anti-static effect to help calm frizz.

Our reviewer, Commercial Content Writer Natalie Knowles, aged 40, says: "I immediately thought of my usual favourite Aussie haircare products, but O&M has a more premium appearance and formulation. The packaging is unique and looks professional. It's the only product I tested that came in a sealed bottle. Its aroma is sweet and rich, like almonds and cream. It luxuriously absorbed into hair and thoroughly softened my somewhat stressed locks. It is very good, albeit there are ingredients in its formulation that some people may wish to avoid. I've heard sulfates aren't the best for hair. It didn't bother me though, it's a quality product.

"I also tested O&M Seven Day Miracle (£31.50 for 250ml) which is an intensive treatment for dry, damaged, coloured and brittle hair. It contains sweet almond oil and organic macadamia oil to leave hair deeply nourished. I can confirm that when used over the course of a week, my hair was much calmer and healthier looking, in comparison to using my usual haircare products."

O&M haircare products are also available from SBS Hair.

Pros

  • Environmentally-friendly credentials
  • O&M products are effective in smoothing and hydrating hair
  • Premium and professional packaging
  • Contains nutrient-rich Tasmanian sea kelp, organic coconut and macadamia oils

Cons

  • Contains sulfates, alchohol and perfume
Amount per bottle:350ml
Hair types:Dry, damaged and coloured hair
Ingredients:aqua, glycerin, cetyl ­alcohol, isoamyl ­laurate, behentrimonium ­methosulfate, stearyl ­alcohol, potato ­starch ­modified, phenoxyethanol, capryloyl ­glycerin/sebacic ­acid ­copolymer, pentaclethra ­macroloba ­seed ­oil, diheptyl ­succinate, panthenol, butyrospermum ­parkii ­butter, polyquaternium-­10, cocos ­nucifera ­oil, glyceryl ­laurate, citric ­acid, vitamin ­e, parfum, hydrolyzed ­vegetable ­protein, hydrolyzed ­jojoba ­esters, helianthus ­annuus ­seed ­oil, laminaria ­digitata ­extract, santalum ­acuminatum ­fruit ­extract, citrus ­glauca ­fruit ­extract, chondrus ­crispus ­extract, acacia ­victoriae ­fruit ­extract
  • Colour-safe
  • Made in Australia
  • Vegan-friendly, cruelty-free
  • Microplastic-free, pro ocean and coral safe

Tested

Best anti-ageing hair conditioner

SBC Skincare Hydra-Collagen Super Shine ConditionerSBC Skincare

SBC Skincare Hydra Collagen Super Shine Conditioner is a creamy, fragranced formula that enriches hair with marine collagen and keratin. In addition, it combines quality seed oils and pro-vitamin B5 to nourish from root-to-tip. The formulation improves the appearance of ageing hair. Fine, thinning, dry and lifeless locks are deeply moisturised without weighing hair down. It works to minimise breakage and restore sleek and healthy hair.

Our reviewer, Commercial Content Writer Natalie Knowles, aged 40, says: "Appearances are deceptive because my initial impressions were not positive. The branding looked dated, and the conditioner smelled like a floral soap. However, I was actually incredibly impressed with how effective this product was on my dry, colour-treated hair. I used it in conjunction with the SBC Skincare Hydra-Collagen Super Boost Shampoo.

"The shampoo was thoroughly cleansing, and my hair felt squeaky clean. I can only describe the conditioner's effect as 'elasticising' my hair. I left it a few minutes to absorb, and upon rinsing, I felt that my hair was incredibly silky and pliant. So, top marks to SBC for the quality of their products."

Shop SBC Skincare's Hydra-Collagen range on Amazon UK.

Pros

  • Lightweight formula that gives body to fine hair
  • High quality ingredients designed to nourish hair
  • Specifically formulated to combat the appearance of ageing hair
  • Leaves hair feeling silky soft and fuller

Cons

  • It's fragrance may not appeal to everyone
Amount per bottle:300ml
Hair types:All hair types
Ingredients:Aqua (Water), Cetearyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Hydrolyzed Keratin, Coco-Caprylate, Behentrimonium Chloride, Glyceryl Stearate, Soluble Collagen, Aleurites Moluccana (Kukui) Seed Oil, Passiflora Incarnata (Passionflower) Seed Oil, Sclerocarya Birrea (Marula) Seed Oil, Cetrimonium Chloride, Phenoxyethanol, Limonene, Panthenol (Provitamin B5), Sodium Benzoate, Parfum (Fragrance), Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Citric Acid, Hexyl Cinnamal, Linalool, Sodium Gluconate
  • Free from silicones and sulfates
  • Made in the UK

Best conditioner for blonde treated hair

Yours/Jerome Russell

Bleaching and highlighting can stress hair, leaving it dry and damaged. The JPLEX Bond Building Conditioner is part of the Jerome Russell Bblonde range, which is designed to protect, strengthen, and restore hair. Leave it in wet hair for 10 minutes, and it will penetrate the hair shaft to restore hair's elasticity from within.

Our reviewer, product tester Angela Knowles, aged 62, says: "I'm always a bit wary of what hair products I use in case it changes the colour of my treated hair. But this Jerome Russell Bblonde was wonderful. It's a rich, creamy texture that smells lovely too. I made a hair wrap with it: applying it to my hair and then the heat from my head, under a shower cap, makes it absorb better. If your hair is slightly porous, this will rebuild and strengthen it. I thought it was just like a John Frieda product, so I was astonished when Natalie told me what it cost. Yes, I'd recommend this conditioner for colour-treated hair."

Pros

  • Great value for money
  • Leaves colour-treated hair feeling soft and nourished
  • Feels like a more expensive hair product

Cons

  • It's a thick formula that can be difficult to dispense through the pump
Amount per bottle:300ml
Hair types:Damaged hair
Ingredients:Aqua (Water), Cetearyl Alcohol, Distearoylethyl Dimonium Chloride, Cetyl Alcohol, Quaternium-91, Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Cetrimonium Methosulfate, Amodimethicone, Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein PG-Propyl Silanetriol, Hydrolyzed Keratin, Bertholletia Excelsa (Brazil Nut) Seed Oil, Hydrolyzed Heat Protein PG-PropylSilanteriol, Helianthelius Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Extract, Cetrimonium Chloride, Trideceth-12, Butylene Glycol, Parfum (Fragrance), Citric Acid, Disodium EDTA, Hexyl Cinnamal, Limonene, Potassium Sorbate, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone
  • 100% vegan
  • Suitable for all hair types and colours

Tested

Best thickening conditioner for dry hair

Natalie Knowles/Hask
Price: £7
Alternative retailers
Walmart$5.27View offer
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For softer, fuller and hydrated hair, HASK Biotin Boost Thickening Conditioner is a super affordable option. It contains biotin (a.k.a vitamin B-7), strengthening hair and adding shine. Other key ingredients include collagen to reverse split ends and coffee extract to stimulate hair growth.

Our reviewer, Commercial Content Writer Natalie Knowles, aged 40, says: "I have fine, naturally curly hair and recently started colouring it. I've found that using a good quality conditioner does wonders for my hair. It's six months since I reviewed the Hask Argan Oil Repairing Conditioner and haircare range. Recently, I've been trying the Hask Biotin Boost range and my goodness, I noticed the difference when I went on holiday and had to use the hotel shampoo and conditioner. A dry, frizzy top layer of hair formed within a couple of days. Coupled with glorious sunny weather, my hair took a hit. When I returned home, I used a HASK Argan Oil Deep Conditioner Treatment. Thankfully (for my hair), I could return to my usual haircare routine. I used the Hask Biotin Boost Thickening Shampoo in conjunction with the conditioner. It's suitable for all hair types and has a lovely light texture and fragrance. As a final touch I spritz my hair with the Hask Biotin Booster 5-in-1 leave-in spray.

"Hask haircare products are affordable and hydrate dry hair without being heavy or greasy. As someone who's battled split ends and brittle hair, Hask has worked wonders for me."

Pros

  • Affordable and effective and softening and thickening hair
  • Safe to use on colour-treated hair
  • Gently detangling
  • Hair looks and feels healthy

Cons

  • Don't expect miraculously fuller hair
Amount per bottle:300ml
Hair types:Fine
Ingredients:Aqua/Water/Eau, Cetyl alcohol, Behentrimonium chloride, Isopropyl palmitate, Biotin<em>, Hydrolyzed collagen</em>, Coffea arabica (coffee) seed oil*, Butyrospermum parkii (shea) butter, Olea europaea (olive) fruit oil, Cocos nucifera (coconut) oil, Glycerin, Panthenol, Cetrimonium chloride, Phenoxyethanol, Dimethicone, Polyquaternium-68, Citric acid, Zea mays (corn) starch, Ethylhexylglycerin, Triethyl citrate, Sodium benzoate, Stearyl alcohol, Parfum/Fragrance, Eugenol, Linalool
  • Free from sulfates, parabens, phthalates, gluten and drying alcohol

Our verdict

Natalie says: "Anyone who's read my article on the best shampoo for dry hair will know that I've been on a hair transformation journey. I'm so pleased to discover a range of products that truly tames frizz and hydrates my hair. In particular, I'm really impressed with Hask's Argan Oil Repairing Conditioner. It's affordable and it works for my hair type. While I'm still on a journey towards full and nourished hair, it's looking in better condition than it did when I was in my thirties."

Tried and tested Hask conditioner and how hydrated hair looks after use
©Hask/Natalie Knowles

FAQs

Why choose conditioners specifically designed for dry hair?

If you think all conditioners are the same, think again. Conditioners formulated for dry hair offer several targeted benefits. Like a nourishing hair growth serum, conditioners for dry hair are rich in hydrating ingredients that absorb into the hair shaft for intensive moisturisation.

The best conditioners for dry, mature hair are sulfate-free and have no harsh chemicals that can further dry out or irritate the hair and scalp. Look for a conditioner that contains argan oil, as this has numerous benefits for dry hair. The antioxidants in argan oil protect the hair from environmental damage and UV rays. In addition, it helps to repair damage caused by styling and treatments.

Some conditioners – such as Odylique Chamomile & Coconut Conditioner – focus on scalp health, reducing dryness and promoting a healthy environment for hair growth. They contains natural oils, extracts and gentle ingredients that are soothing for sensitive scalps. Head & Shoulders Derma X Pro Moisture Conditioner is an effective budget option.

Overall, conditioners for dry hair provide essential hydration, nourishment and protection, helping to maintain healthy, manageable and beautiful hair.

Best conditioner for dry hair tried and tested
©Yours

Ask the expert

In conversation with Abi Weeds – expert in organic haircare and founder of Odylique – we find out what happens to hair as we get older and how conditioners can help reduce dryness, breakage and brittle hair.

What happens to hair as we get older?

Abi says: "A large part of what makes up our hair is keratin, a protein. Keratins decline naturally with age, but this loss can be exacerbated by heat styling, chemical treatments, UV and other environmental stressors. Lower keratin levels in our hair, result in dry, brittle, damaged or frizzy hair."

What ingredients should be avoided in conditioner?

"Conditioners can have some unhelpful ingredients," Abi continues. "Silicone for example, while it gives a great ‘slip’ feel to the hair, can prevent genuine conditioning ingredients (and even the hair’s own natural oils) from penetrating or lubricating the hair shaft."

What ingredients help reduce dry and brittle hair?

Abi advises: "Conditioners with the right ingredients can play an important role in stimulating keratin production and improving overall hair health. These ingredients include:

"Certain amino acids and peptides (shorter chain amino acids) are the building blocks of the hair’s keratin. By boosting keratin, they stimulate hair growth and damage repair. They can increase blood flow to the hair follicles, in turn delivering essential nutrients and oxygen for optimal hair growth.

"We’d always recommend natural peptide and amino acid sources such as hydrolysed plant proteins, rice water or seaweed.

"Pure unrefined plant oils can moisturise and replenish lost nutrients. Hair-loving plant oils to look out for are coconut, avocado, crambe, sunflower or broccoli seed.

"Rosemary has a particular affinity for the hair and scalp as it stimulates the circulation to the hair follicles promoting a healthy scalp and fresh hair growth. It is also a powerful antioxidant.

"Natural Acids (e.g. lactic acid) help strengthen the bonds between keratin molecules in the hair."

The article includes expert commentary from Abi Weeds, the founder of organic beauty brand Odylique. Creator of the world's first certified organic shampoo and a cult product for treating sensitive scalps.

Natalie Knowles is a Homes & Garden Product Writer for Yours, specialising in home appliances. When she's not testing sparkling water makers, she flexes her creative flair as an artist.

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