How to Use Rinse-Out Conditioner: Everything You Need to Know

There are so many types of conditioners out there—leave-ins, deep conditioners, hair masks—but today, we’re focusing on rinse-out conditioners, the everyday essential for keeping your hair hydrated, smooth, and manageable.

Wondering if you’re using it the right way? From how to apply conditioner to hair, to how long to leave it in, we’re covering everything you need to know to get the most out of this trusty haircare product.

How Often Should You Use Hair Conditioner?

You should condition your hair every time you shampoo. Shampooing removes dirt, oil, and buildup, but it also strips your hair of some moisture. Rinse-out conditioner replenishes hydration, making it a crucial follow-up step in your routine.

According to Color Wow’s chief chemist and award-winning shampoo formulator, Dr. Joe Cincotta, “Shampooing and conditioning your hair properly is the most basic but perhaps the most impactful thing you can do for your hair’s well-being.

“At Color Wow, we advocate a simple, effective two-step approach for the best possible wash-day results: a no-residue shampoo, always followed by a conditioner for your hair’s unique needs.”

How to Use Hair Conditioner: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Start with Clean Hair

Wash your hair with a gentle shampoo that thoroughly cleans without leaving residue, like Color Wow Color Security Shampoo. This ensures your conditioner can work its magic on freshly cleansed hair.

Step 2: Squeeze Out Excess Water

After rinsing out your shampoo, gently squeeze out excess water. Conditioner works best on damp—not dripping wet—hair, so it doesn’t slide off before it penetrates your strands.

Step 3: Apply Conditioner Away from the Roots

Apply a small amount of conditioner (about a quarter-size for most hair types) away from the roots area. Avoid the scalp—conditioning the roots can weigh your hair down and lead to buildup.

Our go-to rinse-out conditioners are:

Color Security Conditioner - for Fine to Normal Hair Types

Perfect for fine-to-normal hair, this conditioner delivers weightless hydration and effortless detangling, powered by nourishing Argan Oil.

Color Security Conditioner - for Normal to Thick Hair Types

Ideal for normal-to-thick hair, this rich conditioner provides intense hydration and effortless detangling, thanks to moisture-rich Avocado Oil.

Coco-Motion Lubricating Conditioner - for Curly Hair Types

Coco-Motion delivers silky texture, fluid movement, bounce, and elasticity without ever weighing your hair down or feeling greasy, thanks to our proprietary “Naked Technology.”

Step 4 (optional): Comb Through for Even Distribution

An optional step is to use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to evenly distribute the conditioner. This step also helps detangle your hair, making it easier to manage.

Step 5 (optional): Let It Sit

The beauty of an everyday conditioner is that it works instantly! However, for optimal results, you can also let the conditioner sit for 1–3 minutes on your hair.

Step 6: Rinse Thoroughly

Use lukewarm water to rinse the conditioner out completely. Leaving traces of conditioner in your hair can lead to buildup and dullness.

Recap: Our Ultimate Conditioning Dos and Don’ts

✔️ DO’s

✅ Condition Every Time You Shampoo
Shampoo cleanses your hair and scalp, but it can strip moisture. Always follow up with a rinse-out conditioner to replenish hydration.
✅ Apply Conditioner Away from the Roots
Focus on the areas that need moisture most, avoiding the roots and scalp to prevent greasiness or buildup.
✅ Use the Right Amount
A quarter-sized amount works for most hair types. Adjust based on your hair’s length and thickness.

❌ DON’Ts

🚫 Don’t Skip Shampoo
Rinse-out conditioner is essential, but it doesn’t cleanse your hair or scalp. Skipping shampoo can cause buildup and dullness.
🚫 Don’t Over-Condition
Using too much conditioner or leaving it in too long can weigh hair down and make it greasy.
🚫 Don’t Apply Conditioner to Your Scalp
Conditioner on the scalp can clog follicles and leave roots heavy.

Your Conditioning Questions Answered

Do You Use Conditioner Before or After Shampoo?

You should use conditioner after shampoo, not before. Shampoo cleanses your scalp and hair by removing dirt, oil, and product buildup, creating a clean base. Conditioner is then applied to hydrate, smooth, and protect the hair’s lengths and ends.

Are You Supposed to Put Conditioner on Your Scalp?

No, you shouldn’t put conditioner on your scalp. Conditioner is designed to hydrate and smooth the lengths and ends of your hair, where moisture is most needed. Applying it to your scalp can lead to buildup, weigh your hair down, and make your roots look greasy.

How Long Should You Leave Conditioner in Your Hair?

Conditioner works instantly, so there's no need to leave it on your hair for a prolonged period of time. For optimal results, 1–3 minutes is usually enough time for the product to penetrate and hydrate your strands.

Can You Leave Conditioner in Your Hair Overnight?

It’s not recommended to leave rinse-out conditioners in your hair overnight. These formulas aren’t designed for prolonged use and may cause buildup or scalp irritation.

If you’re looking for an overnight treatment, try a deep conditioner or hair mask specifically formulated for extended use.

Should You Use Conditioner AND Leave-in Conditioner?

Yes, you can use both conditioner and leave-in conditioner, as they serve different purposes. Rinse-out conditioner hydrates and smooths your hair immediately after shampooing, while a leave-in conditioner, like Color Wow Money Mist, provides ongoing moisture, detangling, and protection throughout the day.

After rinsing out your regular conditioner, spray Money Mist onto damp hair to keep your strands lightweight, hydrated, and prepped for styling.

Do You Use Conditioner after a Hair Mask?

No, you don’t need to use conditioner after a hair mask. Hair masks, like the Color Wow Money Masque, are designed to deliver intense hydration and repair, offering deeper treatment than a typical conditioner.

Using a conditioner after a hair mask can actually overload your hair, leaving it feeling heavy or greasy. Instead, swap your conditioner for a hair mask once a week or as needed, depending on your hair’s needs. With a luxurious formula like Money Masque, you’ll get long-lasting moisture, strength, and shine—all in one step!

Can You Use Conditioner as a Hair Mask?

No. While conditioner hydrates, it’s not formulated for deep repair or long-lasting treatment like a hair mask.

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