If we’re being completely honest, I’ve even tried cutting conditioneroutof my haircare routine a few times.

One of those anti-conditioner moments came early in my beauty career, way back in 2018.

Meet the Experts

What Is the Purpose of Conditioner?

Woman in a neutral top combing wet hair

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That’s always the goal.

Certain products and ingredients can disrupt that preferred pH range.

And today’s conditioners do a lot more than just that, adds Ess.

Can I Skip Conditioner?

All three experts agree: Conditioner is pretty much always a good idea.

Rather than omitting the step altogether, she suggests switching to a lighter-weight conditioner.

Who Should Never Skip Conditioner?

Depending on hair pop in, it can be even more critical for some people to use conditioner.

“The cuticle of the hair resembles the scales of a fish,” he explains.

“When you shampoo your hair, it will dry out the edges of those scales.

Folks who use aco-washinstead of shampoo can actually skip conditioner since too much moisture can be detrimental to hair.

The same goes for those using a conditioning wash, says Longsworth.

When in doubt, check the product’s instructions.

Other than that, Gaunitz says there’s really no reason to cut out conditioner from your routine.

In fact, doing so can actually contribute to damage.

As for a TLDR, it’s this simple: Use the conditioner.

Anyonecanskip conditioner, but that doesn’t mean they should.

All three experts we talked to agree that using conditioner is almost always a good idea.

So yes youcanskip it, but it’s not a good idea.

Skipping conditioner robs your hair of the opportunity to rehydrate, add strength, and have extra protection.

In most hair situations, conditioner can help.