Balm or Conditioner: Secrets to perfect hair care

The beauty of hair depends on several factors, including proper nutrition and the right care routine. Hair care experts recommend using a complete range of products: shampoo, balm, conditioner, and mask, as they work more effectively together. While the roles of shampoo and masks are clear, there are often questions about conditioners and balms—not everyone sees the difference between these products. ELLE O‘zbekiston explains the differences between these products.

Deep restoration

Photo: Unsplash, Paul Siewert

A hair balm is a cosmetic product designed to restore and nourish hair from within.

This product penetrates deeper into the hair structure, providing hydration, nourishment, and strengthening. Its primary goal is not just to restore but also to seal the hair cuticles. This is why it needs to be left on for two to five minutes after application. Another benefit of using a balm is its protection against UV rays.

Balms typically contain oils (argan, jojoba, coconut), proteins (silk, keratin), vitamins B and E, and plant extracts. Oils provide hydration, nourishment, and repair. Proteins strengthen, making hair elastic and resilient. Plant extracts hydrate and protect against external damage, while vitamins nourish the scalp, stimulate growth, and prevent hair loss.

Instant effect

Photo: Unsplash, Taylor Smith

A hair conditioner is a care product aimed at improving the hair's external condition, adding shine, easing detangling, and reducing static.

Conditioners also close the hair cuticles, trapping beneficial components inside the hair. Since it primarily works on the surface, it can be used after a balm. It only needs to be left on the hair for about a minute.

Key ingredients include silicones, oils (shea, avocado, jojoba), proteins (silk, wheat), and vitamins B and E. Silicones create a protective layer that adds smoothness and shine, while the other ingredients perform similar functions as those in balms.

How to apply

Photo: Unsplash, Klara Kulikova

Balms should be applied along the entire length of the hair, avoiding the roots. Leave it on for a few minutes, depending on your hair type, then rinse thoroughly.

Conditioners are applied similarly to balms. Leave it on for about a minute, then rinse thoroughly with water.

Both products can be used together for intensive care: first shampoo, then balm, followed by conditioner. This routine helps keep hair healthy and beautiful.

Choosing the right product

Despite their differences, the distinction between balms and conditioners can be subtle, especially when the ingredients are nearly identical. We recommend the following: if your hair needs deep restoration, hydration, and nourishment, such as after coloring — opt for a balm. For lighter care, choose a conditioner.

Always consider your hair type, as the formulations differ, albeit slightly. If your hair needs intense nourishment and hydration, or if it’s damaged and dry, choose a balm and use it 2-3 times a week. For less damaged hair and a quick effect, go for a conditioner. The latter can be used after every shampoo as the final step in your hair care routine.