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 hairdresser to get the chop, read out the 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 become 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 hair care routine.

Best conditioner for dry hair deals in the Amazon Spring Sale

Pssst! Did you know the Amazon Spring Deal Days event is happening right now? We interrupt your scrolling to let you know that from 25-31 March, you can save on hundreds of products on Amazon, including deals on conditioner for dry hair. Here are our top Amazon Spring Sale picks at a glance, or keep scrolling for our full round-up.

50% off: Pantene Biotin & Bamboo Conditioner 1L, WAS £18, NOW £9
45% off: OGX Brazilian Keratin Smooth Conditioner for Dry Hair, WAS £6.99, NOW £3.81
29% off: Faith In Nature Organic Coconut Conditioner, WAS £6.25, NOW £4.43
29% off: Cantu Hydrating Cream Conditioner, WAS £7, NOW £4.99

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 maintain beautiful hair at any age.

Best conditioner for dry hair at a glance

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 we received from our reviewers.

Best conditioner for dry hair

Tested

Best argan oil conditioner

Hask Argan Oil Repairing ConditionerYours/Hask
Price: $9.78
Alternative retailers
Walmart$4.97View offer
Target$5.29View offer

Fortify dry or treated hair with the Hask Argan Oil Repairing Conditioner. It's formulated to strengthen, repair and restore hair. Our reviewer, Commercial Content Writer Natalie Knowles, aged 40, says her dry, colour-treated hair felt "nourished" and was left "frizz-free, moisturized and soft" thanks to this Hask Conditioner. After all, argan oil has anti-ageing properties and moisturises deeply.

If you're suffering from brittleness or split ends, Hask's range of repairing haircare is a great value option that's effective too. And, with added shea butter, the conditioner improves elasticity and smooths hair. Natalie loves that all three Hask Argan Oil products are orange-scented and really pleasant. She used the Hask Argan Oil Repairing Shampoo (which resulted in clean, soft and tangle-free hair) and 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, this conditioner will tame frizz, reduce breakage and add shine. It's a triple threat. Plus, like all the Hask products in this range, it smells divine. Overall, Natalie thoroughly recommends this for dry, damaged or treated hair; plus, 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
  • Does contain parfums/fragrances which may not suit all
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
Free fromParaben, and sulfate-free
  • 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: $35.00
Alternative retailers
Walmart$35.00View offer
Newegg$40.00View offer
Newegg$40.00View offer

Kerasilk Repairing Conditioner is a vegan formulation that contains Biomimetic Silk & Hyaloveil®, to moisturise and protect hair. Our reviewer, Commercial Content Writer Natalie Knowles, aged 40, says her hair is dry and has "recently started having it coloured to hide [her] grey" - so, this pick is just what she needed in order to soften, revitalise and strengthen my colour treated hair.

The Kerasilk Conditioner claims to reduce breakage and nourish brittle hair, so strands are fortified, root-to-tip. Natalie praises the "lovely subtle scent" and how well it "luxuriantly absorbs into hair". Upon rinsing, Natalie's hair felt softer, more supple and silkier. She was even complimented on her hair, which looked less frizzy than usual. Natalie is 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
Free fromAlcohol, paraben, sulfate, oil and silicone-free
  • 98.2% natural ingredients
  • Free from silicones and sulphates
  • Vegan formulation

Tested

Best nourishing conditioner for brittle hair

Lavera Repair and Care ConditionerYours/Lavera
Price: $18.95
Alternative retailers
Walmart$18.95View offer

Lavera Repair and Care Conditioner is an all-natural nourishing conditioner with organic ingredients to repair brittle hair. Our reviewer, Commercial Content Writer Natalie Knowles, aged 40, praises the fragrance - it "smells like honey and texture-wise it's extremely rich – a touch oily – due to the organic macadamia and argan oils". She is fond of its aroma and how her hair drinks it up (!)

Natalie thinks it's a good choice if you've over-bleached your hair or are just finding that your hair is getting dryer with age. Indeed, if your hair is in need of intensive replenishment, this conditioner provides repair and deep care.

Natalie can run her fingers through her hair and it feels stronger and tangle-free. She does mention a gripe, though. She says: "My hair felt slightly heavier and a touch oily". Because of this, she recommends it for parched, brittle hair, but not for fine hair. Natalie adds: "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
Free fromParaben, sulfate and silicone free
  • 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. Our reviewer, Commercial Content Writer Natalie Knowles, aged 40, has been out in the sun a lot lately and is "concerned that it's taking a toll on my hair" - so, was keen on trying this.

Up to 5,000 concentrated Pro-V Nutri Pearls dissolve and release nutrients into the hair, regenerating strands, and strengthening and protecting hair structure at a molecular level. Damage is reversed and hair looks healthier. Natalie says it is a "lovely rich cream conditioner with a gorgeous coconut fragrance" that absorbs

For the price, our tester was genuinely impressed with the results. Not only does it absorb into hair without feeling greasy, but Natalie's hair-do feels softer and brittle flyaways have been tamed, which is amazing to hear. Natalie is surprised by how it's brought out the shine in her coloured hair. All-in-all, her hair was noticeably improved after one use and it's a conditioner she 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
Free fromParaben and oil-free

Tested

Best value conditioner

Head & Shoulders Derma X Pro Moisture ConditionerYours/Head & Shoulders

For hair that's been over-treated and is styled every day, this conditioner is an effective way to reduce breakage. Our reviewer, product tester Angela Knowles, aged 62, says she's been suffering from dry hair and a sore scalp after bleaching her hair over a period of time. However, this conditioner was effective in making her hair feel soft and nourished. Straw-like brittle strands were calmed and now the hair looks healthy. Brilliant.

It's infused with a ceramide complex and coconut oil to soothe dry and flaky scalps, plus it moisturises and detangles hair. Angela praises the conditioner for its distinct coconut fragrance and rich and creamy texture. As for helping a sore scalp, this didn't quite do the trick and Angela feels as if she needs a more medicated calming cream.

Use regularly to make hair fibres stronger. Head & Shoulders says you should see an improvement in hair quality in four weeks. Overwhelmingly, Angela says 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
Free fromParaben, sulfate and oil-free

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.
Though it has been formulated for normal hair, it has a formulation that's very effective in improving hair health and shine for dry hair. Our reviewer, Commercial Content Writer Natalie Knowles, aged 40, absolutely loves this product, and says it has "one of the best fragrances [she's] come across" - its zesty, sweet and herbal in a balanced aroma that reflects the natural ingredients that are in it. As you can imagine, it's "delicious to use", says Natalie. But, what's inside?

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. Natalie mentions that it "vanishes into hair without [any] sickness". Once dry and after using this product, her hair was glossier - whereas she normally has frizzy flyaways. She notes that her hair now falls into naturally bouncy curls.

Without hesitation, Natalie recommends this Superfood Shine Conditioner to restore lustre and volume to parched and brittle hair. We love that it's a certified organic product that comes in a 100 per cent recyclable bottle. For even more intensive nourishment, Natalie suggests following up with Evolve Organic Beauty's Nourishing Hair Elixir – a fantastic 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
Free fromParaben, silicone and sulfate-free
  • 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

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 shampooing and rinse as usual. Our reviewer, Commercial Content Writer Natalie Knowles, aged 40, loves the "lovely rose fragrance". She mentions that the texture is rich and silky, absorbing into hair without feeling too oily or greasy. As a result, her hair felt soft and was beautifully fragranced.

Alternatively, if you use a slightly smaller amount it can be used as a leave-in conditioner. The conditioner's signature scent smells a lot more expensive than its price point and reminds Natalie of L'Occitane Rose Hand Cream - and comes from the famous rose fields of Grasse in France and leaves hair wonderfully scented. 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
Free fromParaben, sulfate and oil-free
  • Silicone and sulfate free
  • Animal test-free and vegan
  • 96% natural origin

Tested

Best salon-quality conditioner for dry hair

Yours/Nine Yards
Price: $16.76 (was 20.95)

www.cosmetify.com

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. Our reviewer, product tester Angela Knowles, aged 62, has coarse, dry and colour-treated hair, which makes this conditioner an ideal match. Indeed, it's made for dry, coarse or curly hair that needs intensive hydration, without weighing hair down. On first impressions, Angela likes the packaging: "Not only does it look good, but it also feels lovely to hold with fingers and thumb".

This deeply nourishing and moisture-retaining conditioner contains shea butter to soften brittle hair and fortify hair follicles. Our tester used it in conjunction with a Tea Tree Special Shampoo Bar. Angela's husband complimented her hair and said it had "more of a sheen" than usual. As her hair is short, she is prone to flyaways with her usual products.

However, she felt that her hair "sat better, without being greasy". Angela adds that she will "proudly" display the bottle on her vanity shelf – why not make it a talking point for when you have guests? She did mention one gripe with the fragrance, describing it as a "waft of perfume" and is not a fan.

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
Free fromNo parabens, or sulphates and contains no animal-derived ingredients.
  • 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
Price: $18.80 (was 23.50)

www.cosmetify.com

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. Our reviewer, product tester Angela Knowles, aged 62, appreciates the packaging, particularly the matte grey tube and branding that "looks like it belongs in a salon". She adds that it's nice to hold and it "dispenses the conditioner very well".

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. Angela. 62, says it has a particularly "pearlescent sheen and lightweight texture". Thankfully, it's said to absorb into hair without feeling greasy or heavy. After rinsing, she was impressed with how silky smooth her hair had become (!)

Nine Yards suggests 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. Angela clarifies that she does want to keep using it; however, next time, she's inclined to leave the treatment in "for a bit longer" and use it over a period of time to get the full "benefit of the reconstructing and strengthening 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
Price: $22 (was 27.50)

www.facethefuture.co.uk

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. Our reviewer, Commercial Content Writer Natalie Knowles, aged 40, immediately thought of her usual favourite Aussie haircare products but likes the fact that O&M has a more premium appearance and formulation. But, how does it fare for her hair?

Natalie notes that the packaging is unique and looks professional. She likes the citrus fruit extract which has an anti-static effect to help calm frizz, which her hair can be prone to. She appreciates the aroma for its sweetness and richness, and likens it to "almonds and cream". Sounds lovely... When used, it "luxuriously absorbed" into her hair and "thoroughly softened" her somewhat stressed locks.

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. Though good, Natalie does wish to mention that there are ingredients in its formulation that some people may wish to avoid (i.e. sulfates). It didn't bother her though, it's a quality product.

Natalie also tested the 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. Natalie confirms that when used over the course of a week, her hair was "much calmer and healthier looking, in comparison to using [her] 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
Free fromAlcohol, paraben, silicone and EU-allergen free
  • 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. But, what did our tester think? Commercial Content Writer Natalie Knowles, aged 40, says appearances are deceptive because her "initial impressions were not positive". Why? She points out that the branding "looked dated, and the conditioner smelled like a floral soap".

However, Natalie was actually incredibly impressed with how effective this product was on her dry, colour-treated hair. She used it in conjunction with the SBC Skincare Hydra-Collagen Super Boost Shampoo. The formulation is said to improve 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. Natalie found this thorough and her hair was left "squeaky clean".

Natalie can only describe the conditioner's effect as 'elasticising' her hair. She left it a few minutes to absorb, and upon rinsing, she felt that her hair was incredibly silky and pliant. Top marks to SBC for the quality from Natalie (!) You can 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 fromAlcohol, paraben, silicone and sulfate-free
  • 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. Our reviewer, product tester Angela Knowles, aged 62, is a little wary of what hair products she uses (in case it changes the colour of her treated hair). But, she found this Bblonde pick "wonderful", thanks to its rich, creamy texture that smells lovely, too.

Instructions say to leave it in wet hair for 10 minutes, and it will penetrate the hair shaft to restore the hair's elasticity from within. Sound ideal. How did Angela find this? She made a hair wrap with it (!) And, found it worked best under a shower cap, which makes it absorb better. If your hair is slightly porous, this will rebuild and strengthen it. Angela assumed it was a premium brand, but was astonished by how budget-friendly it was. She'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
Free fromAlcohol and paraben-free
  • 100% vegan
  • Suitable for all hair types and colours

Tested

Best thickening conditioner for dry hair

Natalie Knowles/Hask
Price: $7
Alternative retailers
Walmart$4.97View offer
Target$5.29View offer

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. Commercial Content Writer Natalie Knowles, aged 40, has fine, naturally curly hair and recently started colouring it. She's found that using a good quality conditioner "does wonders" for her hair.

It's been six months since Natalie reviewed the Hask Argan Oil Repairing Conditioner and haircare range. Recently, she's been trying the Hask Biotin Boost range and noticed the difference when on holiday - and had to use the hotel shampoo and conditioner. (Horror!) A dry, frizzy top layer of hair formed within a couple of days. Coupled with glorious sunny weather, Natalie's hair took a hit.

When home, Natalie used the HASK Argan Oil Deep Conditioner Treatment. Thankfully (for her hair), she could return to my usual haircare routine. She 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. She spritzes my hair with the Hask Biotin Booster 5-in-1 leave-in spray.

Natalie loves Hask. Their 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 her.

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 fromAlcohol, paraben and sulfate-free
  • 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
Natalie tried the Hask conditioner - look how hydrated her hair is (!) ©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

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:

Ask the expert

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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