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When you’re hunting for the best leave in conditioner for waves, you’ll want something that strikes the perfect balance between moisture and definition.
Your waves crave hydration without the weight that’ll turn your gorgeous texture into a flat mess. Look for lightweight formulas with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, shea butter, or coconut oil that’ll keep your hair happy from root to tip.
Fine waves need gentle, non-greasy options, while thicker waves can handle richer creams. The right product becomes your hair’s best friend, taming frizz while encouraging your natural wave pattern.
But choosing the perfect formula involves more than just grabbing any bottle off the shelf.
Table Of Contents
- Key Takeaways
- Choosing Best Leave in Conditioner
- Top 10 Leave in Conditioners
- 1. OUAI Wave Spray Beach Texture Mist
- 2. Rahua Aloe Vera Hair Mousse
- 3. Oribe Matte Waves Texture Lotion
- 4. Briogeo Yuzu Plum Air Dry Cream
- 5. IGK Beach Club Travel Texture Spray
- 6. Leonor Greyl 6 in 1 Styler
- 7. UNITE Hair 7SECONDS Leave In Detangler
- 8. Loreal Elvive Dream Lengths Curls Leave-In
- 9. Carols Daughter Black Vanilla Conditioner
- 10. Shea Moisture Coconut Oil Treatment
- Wavy Hair Care Tips
- Key Ingredients for Wavy Hair
- Effective Leave in Conditioner Routine
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Key Takeaways
- You’ll need to match your leave-in conditioner to your specific wave pattern and hair porosity – what works for loose waves might weigh down tighter spirals, so look for lightweight formulas with hyaluronic acid or natural oils that won’t leave your hair greasy.
- Focus your application on mid-lengths and ends of damp hair rather than roots to prevent weighing down your natural texture, and don’t be afraid to use leave-in conditioner daily since wavy hair craves consistent moisture.
- Look for key ingredients like hyaluronic acid for lightweight hydration, shea butter and coconut oil for nourishment without heaviness, and vitamin B5 with soy protein for strengthening your waves while maintaining bounce.
- You can layer products by starting with leave-in conditioner on wet hair, then adding curl cream or gel using the "praying hands" method – but if you have fine hair, start with just a dime-sized amount to avoid buildup that kills volume.
Choosing Best Leave in Conditioner
You’ll want to match your leave-in conditioner to your specific wave pattern and porosity level, since what works beautifully for loose waves might weigh down tighter spirals.
Finding your perfect wave match isn’t just smart—it’s the secret to unlocking your hair’s true potential.
Focus on lightweight formulas with moisture-locking ingredients like hyaluronic acid and natural oils that won’t leave your hair feeling greasy or crunchy.
Hair Type Compatibility
Finding the right leave-in for wavy hair means understanding your unique hair fingerprint.
Hair type compatibility isn’t one-size-fits-all – your waves deserve personalized care. Many users find success when using a wavy hair leave-in.
Consider these key factors:
- Porosity Levels – Low porosity needs lightweight wavy hair moisturizer, while high porosity craves richer formulas
- Wave Pattern – Loose waves require different products than tight spirals
- Hair Density – Fine hair avoids heavy products that cause buildup
Key Ingredients Benefits
Understanding ingredient labels transforms your wave enhancing leave-in shopping experience.
Hyaluronic acid provides deep hydration vs moisture that simply coats strands.
Protein benefits include strengthening weak hair while natural oils like coconut penetrate without weighing down waves.
Lightweight formulas with sulfate-free impact prevent stripping your hair’s natural oils.
The best wave conditioner combines these powerhouse ingredients for ideal wavy hair moisturizer results.
It’s known to balance the scalp by restoring moisture.
Moisture Retention Ability
Moisture retention ability separates good leave-in conditioners from great ones for wavy hair.
You’ll want products with strong humectant effectiveness that draw moisture from the environment while oil sealing locks it in.
Consider your hair’s porosity impact—low porosity needs lighter formulas for better ingredient penetration, while high porosity requires richer moisturizers for ideal hydration longevity and lasting hair moisture.
For low porosity hair, consider that cuticles resist absorption to ensure the best results for your hair type.
Frizz Control Effectiveness
Effective frizz control separates good leave-ins from great ones.
Tame every flyaway with lightweight frizz control that keeps your waves soft, defined, and touchably smooth all day.
Look for products with proven humidity resistance and ingredient efficacy that deliver long-term effects.
Your antifrizz wave leavein should tame flyaways without weighing down your texture.
The best frizz control for waves comes from lightweight formulas that create a protective barrier, keeping your wavy hair leavein treatment working all day long with long-term effects.
Application Method Ease
Beyond taming frizz, you’ll want a leave-in conditioner that’s actually easy to use.
The best leave-in for waves should make your routine smoother, not more complicated.
Here’s what makes application method ease essential for wavy hair:
- Spray evenness distributes product uniformly without creating patchy spots
- Wet/dry use flexibility lets you refresh waves anytime during the day
- Dispensing functionality prevents waste and controls how much product comes out
- Application amount guidance helps avoid the greasy hair disaster we’ve all experienced
- Residue prevention keeps your leave-in for wavy hair lightweight and natural-looking
Top 10 Leave in Conditioners
Now that you’ve learned what makes a great leave-in conditioner, you’re ready to explore the top products that’ll transform your waves from frizzy frustration to Instagram-worthy texture.
These ten carefully selected conditioners have earned their spots through proven results, offering everything from lightweight hydration to serious curl definition that works with your hair’s natural rhythm, providing Instagram-worthy texture.
1. OUAI Wave Spray Beach Texture Mist
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OUAI’s Wave Spray redefines texture mists with its clever rice protein formula instead of harsh sea salt.
You’ll love how it creates effortless beachy waves without the dryness that typically comes with salt-based sprays.
This lightweight mist works beautifully on both damp and dry hair, making it perfect for your busy lifestyle.
The coconut water adds hydration while maintaining that coveted undone look.
Whether you’re enhancing natural waves or creating texture from scratch, this cult favorite delivers salon-quality results that’ll have people asking about your beach vacation.
Best For: Anyone wanting lightweight, beachy waves and texture without the drying effects of traditional sea salt sprays.
- Adds hydration and texture with rice protein and coconut water.
- Works on both damp and dry hair for flexible styling.
- Free from sodium lauryl sulfate, safe for color- and keratin-treated hair.
- Scent may be too strong or divisive for some users.
- May cause build-up or residue if overused or brushed after application.
- Not ideal for those wanting highly defined curls or heavy hold.
2. Rahua Aloe Vera Hair Mousse
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When you’re tired of flat, lifeless waves, Rahua’s Aloe Vera Hair Mousse steps up like your hair’s personal trainer.
This plant-based powerhouse transforms from liquid to airy foam, making application effortless from roots to tips.
You’ll love how it delivers medium hold without that crunchy feeling most mousses leave behind.
The alcohol-free formula contains rainforest ingredients like aloe and rahua oil that actually nourish your strands.
Plus, each purchase helps preserve Amazon rainforest – so your waves can feel good about doing good.
Best For: Anyone looking for lightweight volume, flexible hold, and a clean, plant-based styling option—especially those with wavy, curly, or fine hair who want to avoid crunchiness.
- Alcohol-free, shine-enhancing formula nourishes hair without buildup.
- Lightweight foam is easy to distribute and won’t leave hair greasy or stiff.
- Each purchase supports rainforest preservation and uses sustainable, cruelty-free ingredients.
- Volume boost may be too subtle for those seeking a dramatic lift or firm hold.
- Requires multiple pumps for a palm-full dose due to airy foam consistency.
- Packaging quality concerns, such as missing seals or leaks, have been reported.
3. Oribe Matte Waves Texture Lotion
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Oribe’s texture lotion works like magic for creating effortless beachy waves without the drying effects of traditional salt sprays.
You’ll love how this lightweight formula adds matte texture and medium hold while keeping your hair soft and touchable.
The lotion distributes easily through damp hair, encouraging natural wave formation as it air dries.
Though it’s pricier than drugstore options, a small amount goes far, making it worth the investment for consistently gorgeous , defined waves that last all day with medium hold.
Best For: Anyone looking to create matte, textured beach waves with a soft, touchable finish without drying out their hair.
- Higher price point compared to similar styling products
- Strong scent may not appeal to everyone
- Results can vary depending on hair type, with some users seeing minimal effect
- Lightweight lotion encourages natural, defined waves without crunch or dryness
- A small amount goes a long way, so the product lasts despite frequent use
- Vegan, cruelty-free, and free from parabens, sulfates, and gluten
4. Briogeo Yuzu Plum Air Dry Cream
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Winning Allure’s Best of Beauty 2024, this multitasking cream delivers what it promises.
You’ll get 81% frizz reduction for 24 hours without the greasiness that weighs down your waves.
The yuzu extract acts like a protective shield against humidity, while plum oil adds lightweight moisture that won’t leave you looking like you dunked your head in olive oil.
Simply scrunch it into damp hair and let nature do the work.
It’s perfect for those "I woke up like this" vibes.
Best For: Those looking for an easy, air-dried look with frizz control, especially for wavy, curly, or flat straight hair.
- Delivers up to 81% frizz reduction and 24-hour hold
- Leaves hair soft, non-greasy, and smells great
- Vegan, color safe, and free from silicones, sulfates, and parabens
- High price point for the amount provided
- Some users with thick wavy hair report frizz or sticky feel
- May weigh down curls or reduce definition for certain hair types
5. IGK Beach Club Travel Texture Spray
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When fine hair needs a confidence boost, IGK Beach Club Texture Spray delivers instant volume without the sticky aftermath.
This salt-free formula creates tousled waves that actually move with you—not against you.
You’ll love how it works on both wet and dry hair, making touch-ups effortless, and the spray nozzle guarantees even coverage, while the travel size lets you test-drive before committing.
At 4.7 stars from users, it’s proven to transform limp strands into textured, beachy waves that last all day, providing a lasting confidence boost.
Best For: Fine or limp hair needing instant volume, texture, and lightweight hold without dryness or stickiness.
- Salt-free, non-drying formula for beachy waves and touchable volume
- Works on wet or dry hair with easy, even spray application
- Travel-size available; highly rated for effectiveness and scent
- Scent may be too strong or lingering for some users
- Price point is higher; best value during sales
- Occasional packaging issues such as cracked tops reported during delivery
6. Leonor Greyl 6 in 1 Styler
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Looking for a multitasking hero that handles everything? Leonor Greyl’s Eclat Naturel styling cream delivers six functions in one luxurious formula.
With 96% natural ingredients including shea butter and jojoba oil, it smooths frizz, defines waves, and protects against humidity without weighing your hair down.
You’ll love how this silicone-free cream conditions while styling, creating that effortless "I woke up like this" look.
Apply to damp hair, focusing on lengths and ends—a little goes a long way with this premium French formula.
Best For: Anyone with frizzy, wavy, or dry hair seeking a natural multitasking cream that smooths, defines, and conditions in one step.
- Conditions, detangles, smooths, and protects against humidity using 96% natural ingredients.
- Enhances shine and texture without greasiness or stickiness.
- Vegan, cruelty-free, and free from silicones, parabens, and sulfates.
- Higher price point compared to standard styling creams.
- May require experimentation to get the best results for different hair types.
- Some users report it is less effective for frizz control in very humid climates.
7. UNITE Hair 7SECONDS Leave In Detangler
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Celebrity hairstylists swear by this protein-powered detangling spray that transforms your wave routine in seconds.
You’ll love how it instantly smooths tangles while strengthening damaged strands with hydrolyzed rice protein and ProVitamin B.
The lightweight formula won’t weigh down your waves, plus it delivers UV and thermal protection for heat styling.
At $21-40, it’s pricier than drugstore options, but you’re getting salon-quality results that last all day, perfect for extensions and chemically-treated hair, this multitasking product replaces several bottles in your routine.
Best For: Anyone with tangled, damaged, or chemically-treated hair—including extensions users—who want fast, salon-quality smoothing and protection in a single step.
- Instantly detangles and strengthens with hydrolyzed rice protein and ProVitamin B
- Lightweight, non-greasy formula offers UV and thermal protection
- Safe for daily use on all hair types, including extensions and color-treated hair
- Higher price point than most drugstore options
- Strong salon scent may not suit everyone
- Can weigh hair down or cause greasiness if overapplied
8. Loreal Elvive Dream Lengths Curls Leave-In
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This powerhouse formula packs hyaluronic acid and castor oil into a lightweight cream that won’t weigh your waves down.
You’ll get up to 72 hours of frizz protection while your curls stay bouncy and defined.
The paraben-free formula delivers seven times more softness than untreated hair, making it perfect for damaged lengths.
Apply it to damp hair and watch your waves transform into silky, manageable spirals.
Hyaluronic acid provides hydration for the hair and scalp.
With over 4,000 positive reviews, it’s clearly hitting the mark for wavy-haired folks everywhere, offering silky spirals.
Best For: Wavy to coily hair types seeking lightweight moisture, frizz control, and curl definition without heaviness.
- Hydrates and defines curls with hyaluronic acid and castor oil
- Provides up to 72 hours of frizz protection with no greasy residue
- Lightweight, non-irritating formula with a pleasant scent
- Overuse can leave hair feeling heavy or flat
- Learning curve to find optimal amount for best results
- Primarily available online, which may delay restocking
9. Carols Daughter Black Vanilla Conditioner
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You’ll fall in love with Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Leave-In Conditioner’s signature scent that lasts 2-3 days.
This weightless formula contains Soy Protein and Vitamin B5, delivering 48-hour moisture retention for your waves.
Simply spray 6-8 inches from hair on wet or dry strands – no rinsing required.
It’s Curly Girl Method approved and works beautifully for revitalizing second-day styles.
The formula strengthens hair while providing frizz control, making it perfect for daily use without weighing down your natural texture, and it provides 48-hour moisture retention.
Best For: People with wavy, coily, or curly hair (2A–4C) seeking daily lightweight moisture, softness, and long-lasting scent.
- Lightweight, non-greasy formula hydrates without weighing down hair.
- Enhances shine and controls frizz for up to 72 hours.
- Curly Girl Method approved and suitable for daily use.
- Scent may be too strong for those sensitive to fragrances.
- Some users experience less effective detangling compared to creams.
- Ingredient changes (like added castor oil) and packaging may vary.
10. Shea Moisture Coconut Oil Treatment
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Your search for affordable hydration ends here with SheaMoisture’s coconut oil treatment.
This sulfate-free formula transforms dry, frizzy waves into soft, manageable hair that’s wrapped in a light coastal coconut scent.
The blend of virgin coconut oil, coconut milk, and Acacia Senegal provides daily moisture without weighing down your natural texture.
You’ll love how it detangles stubborn knots while creating a protective barrier against environmental damage.
Best of all, it’s cruelty-free and sustainably produced, making it perfect for conscious wave-lovers.
Best For: Anyone with dry, wavy, or curly hair looking for a lightweight, sulfate-free leave-in conditioner that boosts hydration and controls frizz.
- Spray pump can be unreliable, leading to frustrating application.
- May not provide enough detangling power for severe knots without a separate product.
- Some users report packaging issues and less effectiveness in low humidity.
- Deeply moisturizes and softens hair using natural, clean ingredients.
- Controls frizz and enhances natural texture without weighing hair down.
- Cruelty-free and sustainably produced with a pleasant coconut scent.
Wavy Hair Care Tips
You’ve found the perfect leave-in conditioner, but maintaining healthy waves requires more than just the right product.
Your daily routine, washing frequency, and styling habits can make or break your wave pattern, so let’s explore the essential tips that’ll keep your curls looking their best, with a focus on healthy waves.
Moisturizing and Detangling Properly
Your wavy hair craves gentle care like a delicate flower needs morning dew.
Start with wide-tooth comb selection for wet detangling methods, working from ends upward. Apply leave-in conditioner waves products generously, focusing on hair hydration through gentle techniques.
Never brush dry waves – you’ll create frizz city. Product application should happen on damp strands, allowing leave-in for wavy hair to penetrate deeply for ideal hydration frequency.
Avoiding Daily Washing
Between wash days, your wavy hair thrives when you skip the daily shampoo routine.
Overwashing strips natural oils, causing scalp buildup and disrupting oil production cycles.
Instead, refresh waves with a quality leave-in conditioner for wavy hair every few days.
This wave enhancing leave-in approach maintains moisture balance while preserving your natural wave definition and preventing unnecessary dryness, which is essential for maintaining a healthy moisture balance.
Prioritizing Hair Health
Your hair’s foundation matters more than any product you’ll ever use.
Heat styling damage and chemical treatment effects can permanently alter your wave pattern, so embrace air-drying and protective styling methods instead.
Scalp health matters too – a clean, balanced scalp supports healthy growth.
Consider your hair’s porosity when choosing a hydrating wave conditioner, as this determines how well your leave-in conditioner waves will form, and use a good leave-in conditioner for best results.
Key Ingredients for Wavy Hair
When you’re shopping for leave-in conditioners, understanding the key ingredients can make the difference between frizzy disappointment and gorgeous, defined waves.
The right combination of moisturizers like hyaluronic acid, nourishing oils such as coconut and argan, and strengthening proteins will transform your wavy hair routine from guesswork into a science.
Hyaluronic Acid Benefits
This hydration powerhouse transforms your wavy hair routine by absorbing up to 1000 times its weight in water.
Hyaluronic acid creates lightweight moisture that boosts hair elasticity while delivering serious frizz reduction.
You’ll notice improved scalp health and enhanced moisture retention that keeps waves bouncy and defined.
Most leave-in conditioner waves formulas now include this game-changing ingredient for ideal hydration.
It also supports enhanced scalp health, which is essential for hair growth and density.
Shea Butter and Coconut Oil Benefits
Nature’s dynamic duo delivers powerful results for your waves.
Shea Butter Benefits include locking in moisture while remaining lightweight, making it perfect for thick, curly textures.
Coconut Oil Hydration penetrates deep into hair shafts, stimulating Scalp Health and reducing frizz.
You can find a great selection of products with these ingredients.
Together, they create the ultimate leave-in for wavy hair, boosting Hair Softness and enhancing natural waves beautifully, with Shea Butter and Coconut Oil.
Vitamin B5 and Soy Protein Benefits
Powerhouse ingredients like vitamin B5 and soy protein transform your wave game completely.
B5 benefits include intense hydration and breakage reduction while boosting hair elasticity for bouncy waves.
Soy protein strengthens strand strength, making your leave-in conditioner waves more resilient.
These wave enhancing leave-in ingredients create the perfect foundation for wavy hair that won’t quit on you.
Vitamin B5, also known as pantothenic acid benefits, can improve shine and is a key component of a leave-in conditioner for wavy hair.
Natural Oils for Moisture Retention
Natural oils work like tiny moisture magnets for your waves.
Coconut and argan oils offer lightweight hydration without weighing hair down, while castor oil strengthens strands.
For low porosity hair, stick to lighter oils like jojoba.
High porosity waves need richer options like shea butter blends.
These oil combinations seal moisture effectively, creating bouncy, defined waves that last.
Effective Leave in Conditioner Routine
You’ve found the perfect leave-in conditioner for your waves, but getting the application right makes all the difference between defined curls and a frizzy mess.
The key isn’t just what you use, but how and when you apply it to maximize your hair’s natural texture without weighing it down.
Applying on Damp Hair
Timing matters when you’re applying leave-in conditioner waves products. Wet hair acts like a sponge, soaking up every drop of goodness your wave enhancing leave-in has to offer. Think of damp strands as your styling canvas – they’re ready to be shaped and nourished.
Here’s how to nail the perfect application:
- Start with towel-dried hair – Remove excess water but keep strands slightly damp for ideal absorption
- Use lightweight formulas that won’t weigh down your natural wave pattern or create buildup
- Apply recommended amounts based on your hair length and thickness to avoid greasy residue
- Choose versatile products that work effectively on wavy hair at this moisture level
- Follow user feedback from fellow wavy-haired folks who’ve tested timing and application methods
Even distribution becomes effortless when your leave-in for wavy hair meets properly prepped, damp strands. Leave-in conditioners provide ongoing hydration, making them ideal for daily use.
Focusing on Mid-Lengths and Ends
Once you’ve applied your leave-in conditioner to damp hair, concentrate on mid-lengths and ends where waves need the most support.
Your roots don’t need heavy product – they’ll weigh down your natural texture.
This targeted approach prevents root buildup while ensuring proper length hydration balance and split end repair for healthier waves.
| Application Zone | Product Amount | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Roots | Avoid completely | Prevents greasiness and maintains volume |
| Mid-lengths | Light application | Enhances wave pattern consistency |
| Ends | Generous amount | Provides split end repair and moisture |
| Overall distribution | Scrunching motion | Encourages natural wave formation |
Smart product distribution methods make all the difference.
When you focus your wave enhancing leave-in on areas that actually need moisture, you’ll see better results.
Your wavy hair craves hydration where it’s most damaged – typically from mid-shaft down.
This leave-in for wavy hair strategy keeps your waves bouncy while delivering targeted nourishment where it counts most.
Using Leave-in Conditioner Daily
You can absolutely use leave-in conditioner waves daily for consistent Daily Hydration and Frizz Prevention.
Your wavy hair craves moisture, so don’t skip days thinking you’ll cause Product Buildup.
The best leave-in for waves works gently enough for everyday use. Try Overnight Application on damp hair before bed—you’ll wake up with enhanced Wave Definition and softer, more manageable leave-in for wavy hair results.
Combining With Curl Creams or Gels
Why settle for just one product when cream-gel layering creates magic?
Start with your wave enhancing leavein on soaking wet hair, then add curl defining gel using the "praying hands" method.
This product cocktailing balances hold vs. softness perfectly.
Apply lightest to heaviest for definition and frizz control.
Your curl enhancing leavein becomes the moisture foundation for stunning wave defining cream combinations.
Avoiding Over-Application for Fine Hair
Fine wavy hair requires a delicate touch with leave-in products.
Less is more when avoiding product buildup that kills root volume. Choose lightweight formulas and apply sparingly to mid-lengths only.
Your application techniques matter—start with a dime-sized amount of the best leave-in for waves.
Remember, porosity matters too; fine hair absorbs products quickly, so adjust accordingly, using the principle that less is more.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can leave-in conditioner replace regular conditioner completely?
No, leave-in conditioner can’t completely replace regular conditioner.
You’ll need both for ideal hair health—regular conditioner provides deep cleansing and intense moisture, while leave-in offers ongoing protection and styling benefits.
How long do leave-in conditioners last once opened?
Time flies when you’re having fun, and your leave-in conditioner’s shelf life follows suit.
Most products last 12-24 months after opening, but you’ll notice changes in texture, scent, or effectiveness signaling it’s time to replace them.
They also undergo changes in effectiveness over time.
Whats the difference between leave-in conditioner and hair serum?
Leave-in conditioner hydrates and detangles your hair while providing ongoing moisture protection.
Hair serum creates a protective barrier, adds shine, and controls frizz with silicones.
You’d use conditioner for health, serum for styling.
Can you use leave-in conditioner on childrens wavy hair?
Unlike harsh adult formulas, gentle leave-in conditioners work beautifully on children’s wavy hair.
You’ll want sulfate-free, lightweight options like So Cozy that detangle without weighing down delicate strands while keeping waves soft and manageable.
Conclusion
Finding the best leave in conditioner for waves is like discovering the perfect dance partner – it should complement your hair’s natural rhythm without overpowering it.
You’ve now got ten stellar options that’ll transform your wave game, from lightweight sprays to nourishing creams.
Remember, your hair’s unique needs determine which product works best. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different formulas until you find your holy grail.
Your waves deserve products that enhance their natural beauty effortlessly.
- https://www.instyle.com/hair/best-leave-in-conditioners
- https://www.sephora.com/buy/leave-in-conditioner-for-wavy-hair
- https://aussie.com/en-us/hair-insurance-leave-in-conditioner
- https://gisou.com/blogs/blog/benefits-of-leave-in-conditioner
- https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-use-leave-in-conditioner
