What is pre-wash conditioning and should we give it a try?

If you’re still looking for the secret to ‘shampoo’ ad-worthy hair, in your endless search for answers, you probably came across pre-wash conditioning. Yes, another thing to add to your hair-care regime. If you’re already doing this, maybe wanna read ahead to understand what exactly it does to your hair, if you’re not, might wanna brush up on some hair-care facts before you invest in your pre-wash conditioner.

What is prewash conditioning?

Ok, let’s get to it. It’s exactly what the name says, you condition before you wash your hair. These products are created to be used BEFORE you shampoo your hair. Targetted towards damaged, very damaged or brittle hair. We can’t really control the heat damage, knotting and dryness, so it’s good to know experts have actually created something to help us out. 

It’s straightforward actually. In the shower, after you condition your hair and run your hair in the water, it feels so silky, you feel like you’re ready to be in a shampoo ad. But the moment you get out, the frizz comes back and your hair’s back to normal. Normal conditioner only acts as a protective layer over your hair. The silky part comes because water fills the gaps between pores in your hair. Once you’re done showering, the water evaporates, leaving your hair dry and rough. Pre-wash conditioning essentially prepares your hair for shampoo by filling in those pores. Water-filled hair also becomes extremely brittle and susceptible to damage. By filling those gaps with conditioner, you’re protecting and nourishing your hair.

Both conditioners and masks can be pre-wash conditioners but hair oil treatment is different. 

Which hair types should do it?

You’re probably wary of using extra conditioner if your hair is prone to dandruff or excess oil. But don’t worry, pre-wash conditioners and regular conditioners have completely different uses. If you’ve coloured your hair, or it looks damaged and/or coarse it’s good for you. However, skip if hair types are:

Very Oily: If your hair contains more than the required oil, and you’re looking to dry it, not condition it… maybe skip the pre-wash if you don’t think you need it.

Fine thin hair: in this case excess conditioner will weigh down your hair, making it greasy instead of smooth.

Very short hair/bobs: these haircuts don’t require much treatment as they’re prone to be smooth as they’re close to the scalp. 

The point is, if u think that your length and hair need it, don’t hesitate, it won’t do your hair much if any, harm.

How to go about it?

Firstly, even if you wash your hair every day a week, only do the treatment about twice a week. This number can decrease if you’re choosing to wash less. Shampoo tends to remove the moisture from your hair, so if you’re washing more, then you should treat your hair more often. 
Apply with damp hair, so the cuticles open, making your hair more susceptible to treatment. About 20 minutes before you shampoo would be good enough if you’re using modern products. After the conditioner has seeped in, it won't take more than 20 mins to work. But if you’re using a homemade recipe, some ingredients might take longer (overnight) to seep in. 

Just like regular conditioner, apply only to strands of hair and not the scalp. However, be more careful and generous in applying pre-wash conditioner as some of it will be stripped by shampoo. However, follow a guide by the product itself, as some are more moisturizing than others. 

Here are a few conditioners we recommend to get you started!

Tresemme Beauty-Full Volume Pre-Wash Conditioner, ₹220

Gives your hair volume and bounce. Use this pre-wash conditioner to completely moisturize and bring a shine to your hair.

Pre Shampoo Mask by Pure by Priyanka, ₹689

Made from natural ingredients including Aloe Vera, Hibiscus extract, Amala, etc. Provides intensive moisturization, nourishes and repairs hair and strengthens hair roots.