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Does Conditioner Remove Oil?

Published in Hair Care Ingredients 2 mins read

Yes, according to one perspective, conditioner can help break down oils on the scalp and hair.

While shampoo is primarily known for cleansing and removing dirt, oil (sebum), and product buildup, conditioner serves a different purpose, typically focusing on moisturizing, smoothing, and detangling. However, the process of massaging conditioner into the scalp, as part of certain hair care routines, is suggested to interact with existing oils.

According to WEN founder Chaz Dean, massaging conditioner into the scalp and distributing it through the ends "will help break down oils and any residue leftover from styling products." This suggests that the physical action of massaging combined with the conditioner formulation can contribute to loosening or breaking down oily substances and product residue present on the scalp and hair before rinsing.

How Conditioner May Assist with Oil

Based on the perspective presented, conditioner isn't necessarily a primary remover like a detergent in shampoo, but rather aids in the process by helping to break down the oily substances.

  • Breaking Down: The act of massaging conditioner into the scalp can emulsify oils, making them easier to rinse away.
  • Residue Management: It also helps manage leftover styling product residue, which often contributes to scalp buildup and interacts with natural oils.

Practical Insight

The practice of applying conditioner directly to the scalp before or during the washing process (sometimes referred to as co-washing or using specific cleansing conditioners) leverages this potential to break down oils and residues while also conditioning the hair.

Consider the following:

  • Application Method: Massaging the conditioner into the scalp is key to utilizing this function as described.
  • Rinsing: Thorough rinsing is essential after this step to remove the broken-down oils and residue along with the conditioner itself.

While shampoo remains the conventional product for significant oil removal through lathering and cleansing agents, the reference indicates that conditioner, particularly when massaged into the scalp, can play a supporting role in the process of managing scalp oils and product buildup by helping to break them down.