How Often Should You Actually Condition Your Hair? We Asked The Pros

Hairstylists everywhere get this question day in and day out: How often should you wash your hair? We've talked about this before, and, well, the answer varies. At the end of the day, it's up to your hair type and lifestyle. Some people can shampoo their hair every day with no problems, while others can go a week or two between wash days.

The not-so-surprising answer: "I would recommend always shampooing and conditioning the hair together," LA-based stylist Andrea Jaclyn, founder of Bomane Salon, tells mbg. Shampoo is great for cleansing the strands and the scalp, but it will likely leave your hair a bit thirsty for moisture. Just like you wouldn't wash your face without following up with moisturizer, you'll want to feed your strands with nutrients post-cleanse.

If you rinse your hair with just water, you may be fine to skip the conditioner, but always reach for hydrating leave-in products if your strands feel dry post-rinse. So the quick and simple answer: You should condition your hair every time you shampoo.

If you have really dry hair, you may even want to fold in a conditioner-only wash (aptly called a "co-wash"). "Co-washing—or, conditioner washing—allows the gentler cleansing without the drying detergents that can harm the scalp and hair. Also, co-washing protects the integrity and strength of the hair while maintaining its natural oils," hairstylist Miko Branch, founder of natural hair care brand Miss Jessie's, previously told mbg.

Over-conditioning can mean two things: Either you're using too much conditioner or you're not rinsing out the product thoroughly enough. "Ensure you rinse products out for a good period of time in the shower to ensure there is no buildup causing this feeling," Jaclyn notes.

Under-conditioning could mean you're not using enough conditioner or you're using the wrong product for your hair. "If your hairstyle feels dry after washing and conditioning, you may be using a conditioner that is too light for your hair," Jaclyn says. She notes that lightweight conditioners are best suited for those with thinner hair or those concerned about oily strands, while anyone with dry or brittle hair will benefit from a heavier conditioner.

"Hair masks are a great option to use for extra-intense nourishment of the hair," Jaclyn says. (We'll put deep conditioners into this category as well.) "The molecules of masks differ from conditioner so that they penetrate the hair more, thus providing greater hydration," she explains. As hair consultant and trichologist Sarah Roberts, author of You and Your Hair: The Ultimate Healthy Hair Masterclass for Afro Textured Hair, previously wrote: "Think of deep conditioners as a five-star meal for your hair."

So, where do hair masks and deep conditioners fit into the equation? Well, that also depends on how often you wash your hair and what your goals are. "I love to use a mask once a week for an extra boost of nourishment," Jaclyn says.

If you have thin or oily hair, you can still use a hair mask. Just be sure to use a bit less than you do conditioner and use it as your conditioner rather than on top of it.