(Part 2) Best hair conditioner according to redditors

Apple cider vinegar stinks, let’s be honest and there’s no oils in it to moisturize for those of that need/want it. However, I do use it in between shampoo/conditioner because it’s so good for hair. I’ve been using Ethique’s on amazon for it. I love it. It’s lasted a while and it leaves my hair feeling juicy.

Ethique Eco-Friendly Solid... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07572RXKP?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

You probably have buildup on your scalp. The apple cider vinegar can be a good way to rinse your hair but it’ll burn like fire if your scalp is raw.

Try this:

• Wash with Suave Clarifying Shampoo. (I pay $2 for it at Target and the grocery store, but I’m using Amazon.com links just for convenience sakes.) Use your fingertips (not your nails) to gently massage your scalp and then rinse thoroughly.
  
  
• Condition with Suave Essentials Coconut Conditioner. Again, massage scalp gently and use a lot of conditioner to cover hair from roots to tips. Rinse thoroughly.
  
  
• Condition one more time, but this time leave a little conditioner in your hair. Some people like to gently splash their hair with water to distribute it evenly rather than allowing the shower water to hit it directly (which would just rinse one spot completely and force all the excess conditioner to another spot. Either way, gently squish your hair from ends up to the roots using a scrunching motion until the water is just slightly milky when it squished out. Maybe leaving 10% of the conditioner in your hair?
  
  
• Eschew ALL of your mousses, gels, sprays, waxes, etc in favor of ‘curly girl approved’ options. Just google those words and you’ll see what you can replace your current products with.
  
  You may have to repeat step 1 a couple times to get rid of the buildup but it’ll happen, I promise!
  
  As for the science behind all of this, it’s my weak area so bear with me:
  
  

1. This shampoo has sulfates (harsh cleansers) but no silicones (stuff that costs each individual strand to make it feel soft). My theory is it strips your hair of the junk that has been deposited by previous products and is basically sitting on your scalp being gross. The shampoo is just shampoo, though, and even though it has sulfates it is designed to be gentle on skin.
   
   
2. The conditioner adds back some moisture to your scalp and hair after you’ve stripped it of the funk. It also has no silicones so it won’t deposit any grossness. It just gently moisturizes (this is why we massage it in).
   
   
3. Of you’re a true curly girl, your hair is probably dry but your scalp (in its normal non-gunky state) isn’t. You need to leave just a little conditioner in your hair so it’ll continue to hang around the strands make it shiny and (most importantly) manageable.
   
   4- None of this works if you go putting a bunch of silicone back on it via gels and other styling products. Drying alcohols are also prevalent in these and we avoid those too.
   
   There are TONS of great methods and products (I use the cheapest ones in the instructions above because why invest a lot until you know it works, right?) in subs like r/curlyhair. It can be overwhelming at first because there’s a lot of science behind all of this but there are also tutorials for simple methods.
   
   I hope that helps. :)

I have a similar texture. I'm doing something based on the Curly Girl Method. I have seborrheic dermatitis, so I put tea tree oil in the conditioner wash I use.

Some days I use a sulfate free tea tree oil shampoo, and some days I co-wash with Suave Naturals Coconut Conditioner with a little tea tree oil mixed in. If you don't have scalp issues like I do, you can just use the conditioner by itself. I put a generous amount on my scalp and massage it in, then I put some Matrix Conditioning Balm on the ends and let it sit while I finish my shower. After I rinse, I put a dime-to-quarter sized dollop of the Suave Coconut in as a leave-in.

I towel dry it and then don't touch it as it air dries. The curls end up being well defined and soft. My hair used to be dry and gross, but after a few months of this, it's very soft, and my color lasts longer. The tea tree oil works as well as Selsun Blue for my dandruff too.

If you have any questions, feel free to ask. :)

Thick, coarse, wavy hair checking in. Shea Moisture products have worked well for me, they're cheap, and you can get them on Amazon or at Target. Their whole line for dry, damaged hair is great (here's the conditioner), but my holy grail product is the strengthen & restore leave in conditioner. After I shower and pat my hair dry with a t-shirt, I use a small amount of this stuff on the ends of my hair and particularly frizzy areas like the very top, and sort of massage it in. My hair will never be super sleek and smooth, but this stuff makes it shiny and manageable at least! Just be careful because too much of the product may make your hair stringy and over-conditioned.

I think most of their products fit into the curly girl method if you're interested in try that.

Honestly, once your body gets accustomed to a reduction in hair washing, the oil glands will stop producing as much. I cannot speak for hair smell though, but I believe this is true for oil/grease production!

I rinse off after workouts, but usually only wash my hair 2x a week (if that lol... sometimes more if I am being social).

https://www.amazon.com/Ethique-Eco-Friendly-Conditioner-Normal-Dry-Guardian/dp/B07572RXKP?th=1

I use that \^. I will only shampoo if I go a very long time w/o showering and my hair is greasy. After using this product, my hair looks like I recently washed it for probably up to 3 days if I brush it everyday! Bonus point if you buy/ or currently use an eco-friendly product to reduce plastic! (where my eco friend people at?!?!?)

Off topic, but I think excessive washing is the root cause of acne in the US. Products are advertised that makes people think they need to wash their face and hair 3x a day. This, is just silly though- if a person washes all the oil off their face or hair, the body is just going to start producing a mass amount of it.

In the mornings I usually wet her hair with a squirt bottle and then spray it with a leave-in conditioner/detangler. I let that sit for a couple minutes and then I use a wide-toothed comb to detangle her hair. At that point her hair is ready to be styled, but again I always use a wide-toothed comb while styling to make sure the curls stay intact.

Also, I only wash her hair with a gentle sulfate-free shampoo once or twice a week because otherwise it gets dried out. I use conditioner every time she bathes though (usually Deva Curl).

EDIT: I forgot to mention that at night I usually put her hair in braids or up in a "pineapple" so that it's more manageable the next day. I also put a [satin pillowcase] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001683MCS/) on her pillow, which helps keep her hair from getting frizzy.

Anecdotal experience coming your way!

My hair: very low porosity, very fine, kinda thin, dry and prone to split ends, longish (bra strap length), wavy (type 2a), damaged from previous abuse, oily scalp... I used to have to wash every day and would still look oily and stringy by the end of the day.

Dry shampoo: I'm a big fan of homemade solutions, and arrowroot powder (or corn starch, but I think the arrowroot is finer and more invisible) and cocoa powder (to match my color, my roommie uses cinnamon on her red hair), worked a LOT better for me than anything I tried from the store! All of them either looked good for the first few hours but left me clumpy later in the day, or you could see them in my hair no matter how much brushing I did. I just dust the arrowroot/cocoa powder on my fingertips and work it into my roots when I need it, and it actually gives me a lot of volume.

Current routine that I'm in LOVE with: conditioner only method using Trader Joes Nourish Spa Conditioner once every 2-3 days, and keep my hair dry on off days with an ugly shower cap. I've interrogated all my friends on day 3 about whether or not it looks oily and they think I'm crazy and say it looks like I'm fresh out of the shower. Deep condition once a weekish with Shea Moisture Raw Shea Butter Restorative Conditioner, and occasionally (maybe once a month, if that) wash with the shampoo in the same line if I get foreign crud in my hair from painting/what have you. The CO-washing totally takes care of my natural sweat/oils, even when I spent an entire day outside working my ass off in 98 degree heat. Since I've started doing this my natural texture has absolutely exploded, split ends have gone way down (I actually haven't gotten it cut since April and it still looks GORGEOUS, like I get complimented a LOT), and I no longer feel the need to use styling products beyond a little hairspray if I'm wearing it up or a glycerin mist if I want to make my waves even bigger (apparently glycerin can be tricky, proceed with caution! ) It's worth figuring out your hair porosity to determine what kind of protein/moisture balance your hair needs, I found this page to be really helpful. I sleep with it in an upside down french braid and that does all my styling for me, also keeps me from getting weird parts/matts etc in my sleep, and I've heard it's better for your hair not to sleep with it loose.

I've been doing this routine all summer (experimenting with no poo techniques for a year, CO-washing for about 6 months) and I can honestly say I've NEVER been this happy with my hair, and I've never spent so little money or energy on it. I'm so damn happy, I feel like an evangelical because I go on this rave about it so often.

In short: Damn the man! Save the empire! Shampoo is the root of all evil.

EDIT: Holy cow, sorry for the novel! But seriously, did I convey how happy this makes me? Great. Also, had absolutely NO transition period, aside from learning how to throughly massage my scalp. ALSO, here's a link to suggestions for good CO-washing conditioners Ok... watching Dexter now. Hope this was helpful!

"Routine" (only did it once):


Double wash hair with Tresemme Botanique Conditioner, Nourish & Replenish , pulling out and detangling curls in the shower. I leave my second wash in my hair, squish out most of the water, then detangle curls one last time while putting LA Looks Extreme Sport Alcohol-Free Hair Gel in, and leaving to dry for about 30 mins outside.

That tresemme leaves my hair super frizzy, oddly, and mine is only wavy. My hair is like a giant triangle when I use it, haha. maybe it's because my hair is so weightless naturally?

If the OGX line of shampoo/conditioners are okay here, the tea tree mint ones have been shockingly good at weighing my hair down without greasing it up. Bonus points: smells like a thin mint, makes scalp less itchy. Ah, found it: shampoo and conditioner

I also like the Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Shampoo and Conditioner

Avoid head and shoulders.

A post I made earlier:

I am no expert, other than my almost 2 yeard. Here is what I do & I do not have problems with itchy, dandruff, etc.

Clean: I use Grandpa's Pine Tar Soap. http://www.amazon.com/Grandpas-Soap-Co-Pine-Ounces/dp/B00028LN1K/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1373586004&sr=8-1&keywords=grandpa+pine+tar

I use it for my head, beard, and really, everything else. Never use dandruff shampoos. This is great for the whole body, and easy to bring with you.

I give my beard a good wash (with soap above or another brand, which is the same brand of conditioner below) a few times a week. Depends what I did during the week and whether it needs it.

Condition: Every time you wash, condition. Even when you don't wash, condition. 5-6 times a week.

I use these guys: To smell good: http://www.amazon.com/Organix-Nourishing-Conditioner-Coconut-Ounce/dp/B000TG850M/ref=sr_1_4?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1373586168&sr=1-4&keywords=organix+coconut+milk

To aid with repair: http://www.amazon.com/Organix-Anti-Breakage-Keratin-Conditioner-Ounce/dp/B00ADR6L08/ref=sr_1_6?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1373586204&sr=1-6&keywords=organix+anti+break

Follow directions on bottle. Easy to use.

Post shower: Let's talk about oils, etc. Many things you can use. Stay away from creams. Hard to get to skin without making beard messy. Pick any oil (coconut, argon, hempseed, grapeseed, jojoba, etc). The key is to get it to your skin and also on your hair. That is where Mr. Boar Bristle Brush comes in (see below).

Before I leave this section, check out: http://www.amazon.com/Organix-Nourishing-Coconut-Breakage-Serum/dp/B000N758A2/ref=sr_1_2?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1373586204&sr=1-2&keywords=organix+anti+break

I use this to help tame fly-aways during the day, or if I feel my beard needs a pick me up. They make several varieties, so the best thing is to get into a store, smell the ones you like, and try. Again, using regular oils works the same.

Brush: This guy is your friend. It doesn't pull hairs, causing breakage. It also goes deep and helps spread those oils throughout your skin.

http://www.amazon.com/Spornette-DeVille-Bristle-Paddle-Brush/dp/B0017PUPMK/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1373586487&sr=8-2&keywords=boar+bristle+hair+brush

I recommend the argan oil conditioner by OGX to pretty much everyone. I bleach and dye my hair a lot and people always tell me it looks and feels super healthy regardless. My hair is also super fine and it doesn't weigh it down, which is great because I co-wash with it too!

I wrote this comment for somewhere else, but I saw this and it's relevant so Ctrl+P.

I recently went "no-poo" by accident. I grabbed a bottle of this RenPure Cleansing Conditioner at Rite Aid, thinking it was regular conditioner. Though I have no problems with hair loss, I have ultra fine hair that's prone to getting stringy and limp. Finding a shampoo/conditioner combo that made my hair feel clean for more than a few hours was like the holy grail.

I saw that this lotion-looking, non-lathering goop was supposed to replace my shampoo and conditioner. I was skeptical, but I tried it. It worked! I could barely tell the difference, just that my hair seemed less greasy by the evening and I probably used 1/5th the product and 1/2 the time I would have before (the RenPure is literally the only thing I use, no more Frizz Ease, etc.) Some of the Amazon reviewers say it worked for them, others say it made their hair heavy and oily for a few days. I just made sure to rinse my hair out very thoroughly and it was fine, if anything, less greasy than a shampoo/conditioner wash.

I use plain old corn starch as 'dry shampoo'. "Will it clog pores" seems to be a totally subjective question as far as the internet is concerned. It's a common alternative to talc in makeup, supposedly because its better for pores. I usually put a little on my fingers and rub it near my hairline and into my bangs. I've never had any issues with acne in that area, so I'm assuming it's okay for my pores.

The rubbing action and the drying effect of shampooing so often is probably pulling out some of your hair and making your scalp produce excess oil to compensate for what the detergents strip away.

You also might have a bad shampoo/tap water combo. When I was using normal shampoos, I would have to find the right shampoo for every water supply. The one that leaves my hair gorgeous in NYC tap water, leaves my hair a dingy, greasy mess in my parents' well water. Hotels were always a wild card. Will my hair look Pantene Ad Awesome, or will I look like the kid from The Ring?

First Olympian does a good range of oils (really nice presentation, kinda over priced): http://www.firstolympian.com

I generally use Percy Nobleman's Beard Conditioning Oil. Nice smokey smell, and it's a pretty big bottle that'll last a while: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00I9803MK/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_3TnCub05DT7BB

If you're looking for moustache wax, check out Bounder. It's much cheaper from their website, plus it smells amazing: http://waxindustries.com

Defienetly check out the r/curlyhair subreddit. Tons of great info. I have similar hair and it's been a long process of figuring out what it likes. I also like the less is more approach.

For me, I don't wash or condition it. I scrub my scalp every 2-3 weeks. I get it wet and comb it out in the shower every 2-3 days depending on activity. Run some coconut oil through it, heavy on the tips moving lighter towards the roots and then top it off with Dr. Bonner's Creme (This stuff is pure magic). Flip it over, throw it in a towel bun thing, let it be for a few hours, release it, and let it dry naturally. Results are magic.

Of course everyone is different and this took me a year and half to figure out, still working on it.

I keep it simple and just use head and shoulders shampoo because I get dry skin. I use suave natural conditioner. https://www.amazon.com/Suave-Naturals-Conditioner-Tropical-Coconut/dp/B0002FCD5I

Always open to suggestions if you think there's something better.

This happens to me every month or so (at least). my hair is straight and thick but I think my lil system I came up with will work for any hair type.

Materials:

• OGX conditioner - the blue Argon Oil one
  
  
• The Wet Brush. Doesn’t hurt nearly as bad when brushing out knots and is easier on your hair.
  
  
• any hair oil. I use Marrakesh oil with hemp and argon.
  
  
• any leave-in conditioner
  
  

1. Put oil throughout hair and focus on the knots
   
2. Put conditioner throughout hair- again focus on the knots.
   
3. Let products sit for awhile. I’ll usually take a nice relaxing bath while my hair is marinating in oil and conditioner lol
   
4. Shower. Shampoo your scalp and rinse out the oil/conditioner. After everything is rinsed out, use the conditioner again the same way you did in step 2. While the conditioner is in your hair, you can use the Wet Brush to start brushing some out.
   
5. After 10min, rinse out the conditioner and make sure it is ALL out.
   
6. Towel dry hair
   
7. Put leave-in conditioner allllll over your hair and massage it in
   
8. Use the hair oil again on your ends and in the knots.
   
9. Start brushin. Start brushing from the ends and work your way up- it’s much easier. Sometimes I rub some of the hair oil on the tips of my brush to give a lil more lubrication to it lol. You can keep applying oil as needed.
   
   You may have to shower one more time if you used a lot of oil and/or if your hair looks greasy
   
   I hope I helped!!!! It’s definitely an undertaking and this is what I use every single time!!!!

I have this same patch. I put in Havana Twists to keep the ends protected and it's helped a lot. Between that and my regimen, I've been seeing that section match up to the rest of my hair length. It's still a little shorter but it's a lot stronger and there's way less breakage there than there used to be.

I don't shampoo my hair ever. I just co-wash using This Trader Joe's conditioner. Though I do plan on switching to This conditioner by them because I've heard great reviews about it and my hair stops being really responsive to conditioners after a while. My hair still responds to the first one relatively well but I've noticed it's seeming a little more lack luster than when I first started using it.

I spray my hair/scalp with a mix of Aloe Juice and Water every day and use either just straight up coconut oil or this hair moisturizer (I know you're not all for a bunch of homemade stuff but I essentially swear by her products. They make my hair so soft and they seal in the moisture perfectly, helping bring out more natural shine). With that product, a little goes a long way. so though it's 16 bucks you're putting down, it will last you a while. I bought my first bottle of it about 4-5 months ago and I still haven't made much of a dent in it.

The biggest thing is probably making sure that part of your head is getting the amount of moisture it needs and locking it in.

I've also started doing deep conditioning protein treatments once a month or so. It's gross but I use a small thing of Greek Yogurt, one egg, a bunch of honey and vitamin E. My hair responds so well to it, and I make sure to slather that part with it a ton because it helps strengthen it a shit load. My hair has also been incredibly responsive to it, leading to way less breakage then what I used to get.

I hope this helps. Good luck!

Good shot. Are there any other oils you use?

Argan oil is the most exotic of those four, and thus most expensive. It's worth every penny though. I wouldn't bother with products that have trace amounts of it and then advertise it prominently on the label. Just buy pure Argan oil. The bottle I have comes with a dropper and I spread it on my face and beard. The conditioning effect it has on your skin and hair should be immediately obvious.

Rosemary oil -- I use this shampoo & conditioner from Trader Joe's:

http://www.amazon.com/Trader-Joes-Nourish-Moisturizing-Conditioner/dp/B0040BY45W/ref=pd_sim_bt_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=0KS2THQJ3WN1E53S9N92

http://www.amazon.com/Trader-Joes-Nourish-Moisturizing-Conditioner/product-reviews/B002LV317A/ref=cm_cr_dp_all_summary?ie=UTF8&showViewpoints=1&sortBy=bySubmissionDateDescending

http://mo-to-the-jo.blogspot.com/2011/05/ups-and-downs-of-trader-joes-nourish.html

I have been trying the sulfate/paraben-free hair care stuff and right now I am using Organix. I am using the Organix Argan Oil Conditioner and I really love it so far! Waiting to run out of my old shampoo so I can get this brand as well.

Sure!!! I LOVE all things beauty and hair!

Sulfate Free Shampoos & Conditioners:

• KMS California - Anything by KMS California in terms of hair care. They're my go to!
  
• Kristin Ess Shampoo - She's the stylist who does Lauren Conrad's hair. She has her own new line for hair care. All sulfate free.
  
• Living Proof Hair Shamp & Cond. - This is all sulfate free. I recommend this one if you're just starting out. They're not cheap but you're getting your bang for your buck in my opinion.
  
• Bumble & Bumble - Curly hair girls unite! This is also specifically made for wavy/curly hair.
  
  Dry Shampoo:
  
• R & Co Dry Shampoo - This is my ride or die DS. Absolute fav.
  
• Batiste Dry Shampoo - The first is on the higher end, this is a great and cheaper alternative! I love Batiste! They've got ones for specific hair colors as well.
  
  Cleansing Conditioners:
  
• DevaCurl Cleansing Cond. - If you've got any type of curl DevaCurl can help you maintain them without stripping them of their natural texture.
  
• Loreal Cleansing Cond. - Drugstore cleansing conditioners are also great! This one is a staple!
  
• Herbal Essences Cleansing Cond. - This one ppl also love.
  
  Products Mentioned in this thread:
  
• Deva Heaven In Hair Intense Moisture Treatment
  
• Hair forks
  
• it's a ten miracle leave-in Cond.
  
• Shower Cap
  
• Spiral Hair Ties
  
• Milkmaid Braid Hair Tutorial
  
• French Braid Hair Tutorial

Routine:

Co-wash with Tresemme Botanique Nourish + Replenish with Coconut Milk and Aloe Vera . I apply enough to be able to get a medium comb through it while showering and remove the stragglers (my hair is super thick, so my wall is usually plastered with fallen hair after I finish). I let the conditioner sit while I finish bathing and rinse completely with cold water.

After showering, I wrap it all in a towel turban and dry for 15-30 minutes. When my hair is fairly damp, but not dry, I apply a generous amount of SheaMoisture Coconut and Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie and work gently through from tips to root.

Immediately after, I apply DevaCurl Ultra Defining Gel (or Garnier Fructis Style Pure Clean Styling Gel) and let my hair air dry.

Once it’s all finally dried completely, I gently scrunch out the gel and style my hair as necessary.

I have recently ordered the Free & Clear shampoo and conditioner after hearing many amazing things about it. I have normally used selsum blue but lately it hasn’t been working as well, also wanted to try something with less chemicals/less abrasive.


(Pharmaceutical Specialties Free & Clear Hair Conditioner for Sensitive Skin, 12 Ounce https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0033041GI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_.79UCbQXHJREB)

I've been using this and it seems to be working well.
Renpure Vanilla Mint Cleansing Conditioner with Pump, 16 Ounce
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01B6CBYBO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_klX9Ab1T4GEBV

Rats! Well I found [Aussie Moist Conditioner] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005GDAZCE/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B005GDAZCE&linkCode=as2&tag=blagirwitlonh-20) with EDTA in it. I haven't used this myself but hopefully that helps you.

Ingredients:Water/Eau, Stearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol, Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Glutamic Acid, Fragrance/Parfum, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Benzyl Alcohol, EDTA, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone, Ecklonia Radiata Extract, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice.

The previous poster was correct in that your hair does need to grow. Once longer, unless you have curls, like me, it will weigh down more. By leave in conditioner, I meant actual conditioners designed to be left in. They tend to be lighter than typical rinse out conditioners. I suggest that, whenever you shampoo, you also use a rinse out conditioner due to the drying effects of many shampoos. Here are some (Rather lengthy) ideas:

• My hair is longer and curly, so I tend to go for conditioners that are very moisturizing and have amodimethicone high in the ingredient list to lock in the moisture. If you prefer salon type products, Redken's All Soft Mega (In the brown bottle) is really good. If you prefer a two-product solution you can get more cheaply. you can get Silk 18 on Amazon and layer Aussie 3-Minute Miracle on top to seal in the moisture from Silk 18. Alternatively, you can use plain ol' Pantene instead of Aussie. Until your hair is significantly longer, I'd go with either the All Soft Mega, Aussie, or Pantene by themselves. Leave normal rinse-out conditioners in your hair for about three to five minutes before rinsing.
  
• Leave-in conditioners are lighter and intended to stay in your hair. If you use other styling products, leave-in conditioners go on first. You can use Giovanni Direct Leave-in Conditioner or Redken All Soft Mega Hydramelt if you prefer thicker leave-in conditioners. If you would like a lighter product, It's a 10 Miracle Leave-in or Redken One United. To apply, use them just after you have conditioned your hair after shampooing. Your hair should be soaking wet. Apply it to the midlengths and ends of your hair by smoothing it down in a "Praying hands" motion several times. When your hair dries completely, it will have a sort of crunchy cast. To remove this, you can scrunch your hair gently.
  
• Oils and serums go on after leave-in conditioners in the shower and can also be used on dry hair for a little extra shine. You can also cocktail them with gels and apply both at once in the shower. There are several you can try, such as jojoba oil, argan oil, mongongo oil, or a mixture of oils, like Redken Frizz Dismiss Oil-in-Serum. Oils and serums will lock the moisture into your hair and smooth it down. You apply these the same way as you do leave-in conditioners. Be careful though, you don't need much and avoid the roots to avoid an oily look. My hair is between nipple and armpit length and I use about dime to a nickel sized amount.
  
• Don't forget to shampoo your hair from time to time to remove the products. If you don't use a sulfate-containing shampoo, or one that has Cocamidopropyl betaine, they won't remove the products listed above and after a while, you'll get build-up.
  
• As your hair gets longer, you'll find yourself experimenting with products. You'll also become more concerned with preventing damage since longer hair is more susceptible to it. I use the Redken All Soft Mega products because they work extremely well on my hair. Since I put my hair up in a bun, wear it loose, or wear it in a ponytail to work, I need products that are light but very moisturizing that can lock in the moisture. As a result, my curls are not weighed down when my hair is loose, I'm not fighting tangles or broken hair when I put it up, and it's just easier for me to manage.

Two suggestions,

First off, I used coal tar for a bit, but have recently switched to a "cleansing conditioner". It washes your hair without drying out your scalp, works about as well as coal tar and doesn't smell awful.

This is the stuff I use,
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00F4TQ49I?keywords=cleansing%20conditioner&qid=1453066534&ref_=sr_1_7&s=hpc&sr=1-7

To answer your question though, when I used coal tar, I would just be sure to condition my hair afterward and that took a lot of the stink out of it.

Something like this might work:

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0033041GI/ref=ox_sc_saved_image_3?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1&th=1

Simple seems like it would be better for your hair. Products with lots of 'natural' ingredients have more allergenic potential. You can always use masks and oils with ingredients you know your scalp will tolerate if you need more moisture.

also have thin hair that breaks easily! I changed two things in my routine that helped so much with that.

• I started only washing my hair once a week (it can be gross at first, but after a while your hair will be so grateful! depending on your type of hair you might need to use dry shampoo through the week)
  
• I started using this instead of shampoo. my hair is so much hardier for it and just in general fluffier and softer and better overall

needs for crazy hairs

I don't follow CG method but I use certain products to come up with my own routine.

Hair Wash Day-

Step 1: I comb through and massage my scalp and hair with Avocado Oil and use the Vanity Planet Scalp Massage and let it soak in for an hour. I specially use more oil on the ends.

Step 2: I use a hot towel to steam my hair a few times by the end of the hour

Step 3: Use OGX Biotin and Collagen Shampoo to wash off the oil.

Step 4:Condition with Cantu Hydrating Cream Conditioner

Step 5: Use a microfiber head wrap or a tshirt to remove excess water

Step 6: I then use a couple of dollops of Miss. Jessie's Pillow Soft Curl Cream and scrunch my hair .

Step 7, for the top of my head hair I use Frizz Ease serum and comb through and make it sit in place with Bobby pins(This makes the top part straight without me having to use heat at all)

Step 8: I let it dry naturally

​

Days following the wash:

--Post-Workout Care: I workout a lot and sweat in the scalp like cray-cray so I always wet my hair completely after the workout and use the already existing products in the hair to set it back, letting it dry naturally.

--Days after wash morning routine: I braid my hair at night and when I wake up the curls are almost always intact. But I do use a spray bottle already mixed with a few drops of Curl cream and re-scrunch the curls and let dry naturally.

--Next wash Schedule? -- I usually wash on day 3 with just Cantu's scalp rinse and use the conditioner. But like today if I don't have the time, I wet my hair completely by spraying water all over in sections and follow Step 6,7 and 8.

​

I do the deep oil conditioning atleast once a week. That is the only time I use the shampoo. For every following wash after the oil conditioning I use Palmer's Coconut Oil Formula Conditioner instead of regular conditioners.

Bleach (to be safe): two boxes of the L'Oreal

Toner: 1 Bottle [Pimpin' Purple] (http://www.amazon.com/Special-Effects-Color-Pimpin-Purple/dp/B002GDINAI/ref=sr_1_2?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1397537531&sr=1-2&keywords=special+effects+purple), one bottle [Electric Blue] (http://www.amazon.com/Special-Effects-Color-Pimpin-Purple/dp/B002GDINAI/ref=sr_1_2?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1397537531&sr=1-2&keywords=special+effects+purple), one jar [Enchanted Forest] (http://www.amazon.com/Manic-Panic-Semi-Permanent-Color-Cream/dp/B00265MIR0/ref=sr_1_sc_3?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1397537806&sr=1-3-spell&keywords=manic+panic+greeb), and [here] (http://www.amazon.com/Aussie-Moist-Conditioner-With-Pump/dp/B005GDAZCE/ref=sr_1_20?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1397537927&sr=1-20&keywords=aussie+moist+conditioner) is a conditioner you can use to mix with the dyes for the toner, but you can use a different conditioner if you want. There will be tons of this conditioner left over :)

Deep Conditioner Stuff: [Olive Oil] (http://www.amazon.com/Organics-Olive-Conditioning-Treatment-Professional/dp/B0038I8J9A/ref=sr_1_7?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1397538201&sr=1-7&keywords=hair+treatment), [Coconut Oil] (http://www.amazon.com/Organics-Olive-Conditioning-Treatment-Professional/dp/B0038I8J9A/ref=sr_1_7?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1397538201&sr=1-7&keywords=hair+treatment), and [this] (http://www.amazon.com/Suave-Professionals-Piece-Moroccan-Infusion/dp/B00ESYBV66/ref=sr_1_2?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1397538438&sr=1-2&keywords=suave+morrocan) set gives you a shampoo, conditioner, argan oil, and a hair mask.

Did you find a silver dye on there that you liked?

I didn't add up costs, but I'm guessing that would be a lot of money. To cut down, you can get just smaller portions of everything and only purple dye for the toner.

Maybe try a cleansing conditioner instead of shampoo (we use this brand)? For me and my wife it's hit a nice balance between feeling/looking clean and not wrecking our hair by constantly stripping all the natural oils and such..

To me it sounds like you have high porosity hair because of the medication. My mom had a similar issue with her hair becoming damaged after she bleached her hair so she could change the colour to a light grey (which it looks absolutely gorgeous now). First of all, do NOT use any heating tools (straightener/curling iron/blow-dryer). If you're anything like me and you feel like you absolutely have to, please use a heat protector. Secondly, do not brush your hair when it's wet. I would avoid anything with plastic beads on the end, combs and bristle brushes are your best friend right now (or finger detangling!!!!). Comb out the ends first, and keep going a few inches higher each time - this will save you from breakage. Try to brush your hair as little as possible though.

I encourage you to be absolutely filthy now as well. Wash your hair only when you absolutely need to (every 3-4 days is what I recommend, even longer than that if you can postpone it). Your hair gets greasy when not washed for the same reason your face will get oily, glands in the skin produce sebum. You want sebum to build up so it can moisten your hair and keep it from drying out, this is like a natural conditioner.

I also recommend a protein treatment for your hair as well. The accutane is sucking out all the moisture from your hair, so you're going to need to artificially put some back in. On top of this, I recommend leave in oils. Moroccan Oil is what I like to use. You only need a small amount and that full bottle has lasted me nearly two years - I use it every time I wash my hair and I absolutely love it. If you're looking for something a bit cheaper I can also recommend Morocco Oil. On top of all this, you may also want to do a deep hair conditioning 1-2 times a week. Unfortunately I have no recommendations on a product for this.

I hope your acne clears up though! Accutane was such a pain to take. It dried out my skin pretty badly when I was taking it, to the point that I just felt like stopping after a couple of months. However I didn't, kept taking it for 2 years, but my acne has not been an issue since!

Leave-in conditioner. Makes your hair soft, keeps it in place, and smells amazing.

https://www.amazon.com/Sexy-Hair-Concepts-Soy-Tri-Wheat-Conditioner/dp/B0009EXOO6

Nails:For your cuticles you can try a cuticle remover like this one: http://media.uxcell.com/uxcell/images/item/catalog/ux_a08071400ux0047_ux_c.jpg
I have one to remove my wild cuticles. It can be used with cuticle oil to soften them up and lessen any damage to the cuticle bed.

Body:As far as lotions go, I've found that Dr. Bronner's magic-all-one lotion(not the tattoo balm) is good for me head to toe. It's a bit oily at first but soaks in quickly. http://www.amazon.com/Dr-Bronner-Lavender-Conditioner-Styling/dp/B0017QK7A4/ref=sr_1_4?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1323654995&sr=1-4

Face: Aztec Healing Clay aka bentonite clay is a good facial mask! It draws out the impurities in the skin and gives a good glow. It does tingle a bit(I have sensitive skin) but isn't bad at all. Here it is: http://www.amazon.com/Aztec-Secret-Indian-Healing-Clay/dp/B0014P8L9W

Styling!
You mentioned that you dont want to "weight it down with product" and how im interpreting that is that you don't want it to look greasy or over-worked. This is fine, it's my same preference.
If you have fine hair, do the following with your head hanging down. This will help volumize your roots while you style. Keep product away from your roots. If you have regular/thick hair, do this upright.
Here's what you do -- Invest in 3 things --> moisturizer, sealer, styler.
I've tried literally hundreds of dollars worth of fucking useless products. Here is what i've found works best for me.

• STEP ONE - Moisturizer: Davines AIO Hair Lotion or LUSH R&B Lotion This will moisturize your hair without making it look greasy and weighed down. Basically this will help accentuate/define the natural texture of your hair. Try keeping it away from your roots otherwise your roots will start to look greasy. You dont want this.
  
  
• STEP TWO - Sealer: Argan oil it shouldn't cost you an arm and a leg. I find this to be a very good brand that lasts you fucking FOREVER. What argan oil does is, in addition to being very good for your hair cuticle health, it takes that moisturizer you just used and seals it into your hair. Plus it adds a little shine and a little bounce. Apply it by using LITERALLY TWO DROPS in your fingertips and rub your fingers together and just apply it mostly to the ends of your hair. Once you've done that, use that last remaining shine left on your fingers/palm to scrunch your hair, kinda like you did with the towel. Keep the oil away from your scalp. It WILL make you look greasy.
  
  
• STEP THREE - Styler: This will depend almost entirely on your hair type, but after tons of trial and error... ive found Oribe Creme for Style works great at creating hold, sealing in moisture, and still giving you hair you can run your fingers through. Its on the pricier side, in my opinion, so ive linked you to the small size if you wanna try first before committing to a large size. What i do is kind of what you did with the STEP ONE moisturizer. Squeeze out a SMALL amount...like, a quarter of an inch of product, into your fingers and rub between your fingers. Now run it through your hair, keeping it away from the roots. If you've got wavy or curly hair, do more of a scrunching motion. This is the part of the styling where you try to put your hair into a position you like. I like my hair parted on the left and pushed back, so this is what i do. Once ive brushed it back using my fingers (NOT a brush), i just walk away from the mirror and go on about my day. It is at this point, until your hair completely dry, that you just stop fucking with your hair. Dont touch it. dont move it, dont brush it. Just let it be. Once it's dry, you are free to let your hair fall forward, a little into your face or whatever. Because you pushed it back while it was drying, you'll have some nice volume at the roots, when it falls forward.
  
  
  So yeah, this may seem overwhelming, but you can cherry-pick what you are willing to do. Honestly, aside from the head massage, i literally only do the oil/hairwash/style thing once every 5 or 6 days. So it really doesnt demand that much time.
  
  
  I figure while im here, i'll also address some things i often see people commenting:
  
  F.A.Q (my opinions as answers)
  
  
• If i dont wash my hair every day, it gets so greasy: I cant begin to tell you how much damage you're causing your hair by washing every day. My secret weapon for refreshing oily hair and giving it another 3 or 4 days of wear is a dry shampoo. Batiste works great, and it comes in different colors, so if you have dark or red hair, you dont have to worry about your roots looking powdery and white. Hell, in a pinch i'll even just use a small amount of baby powder massaged into the roots of my hair. Wash your hair less.
  
  
• Dont cut your hair: This is bad advice all around, in my opinion. To keep your hair happy, you have to be mindful of split ends you may get. Going to the stylist and asking them to LITERALLY ONLY cut off your split ends every two months or so is great and should only run you about $15. They wont remove any length (be firm when saying that you only need split end removal) and your hair will constantly look healthy.
  
  
• The awkward phase is inevitable: This is and isn't true. It is absolutely true if you just let your hair grow with absolutely zero styling from a professional. This is totally fine to do! You may look like a hair bubble for a few months, but you will get longer hair in what seems like a shorter amount of time, and then once you're at a happy length, you can go get a hair cut and the stylist will give you an actual shape to your cut. HOWEVER, the route that i chose is the longer path -- but the more "stylish" path -- which means that every 4 months or so, ive gone to the stylist so at every single stage of growth, ive had a proper shape/cut. This means that my hair length isnt as long as it would be otherwise, but the great thing is that i've been able to see the possible style for my hair at every single length.
  
  
• My hair is boring: This is pretty easily remedied! Like with anything else, consult a professional. Ask any long haired friends you have, whose hair you like, who their stylist is and book an appointment! They might recommend layers, they might recommend parting your hair differently, etc. Be firm in telling them you're not interested in getting rid of length, but if your hair is fine, maybe adding volume, or if you have a SHIT TON of hair (first, congrats) maybe its a matter of taking away some weight. If you've got hair-goals, show them a picture of someone whose hair you admire. Maybe a Hemsworth or something.
  
  
  Okay...i hope this helped at all!

I won't tell you to cut your hair, because you seem attached to keeping it long. I will say that the sides of your beard are a little patchy, and if after a while they haven't grown in I would cut it into more of a goatee shape (the front of your beard looks great). There aren't a lot of styling products that are conducive to long hair. A very light hold hair oil might make your hair a little more manageable, something like this.

I'm pretty sure, I'm lazy and just order everything. For moisture I use NuNaat Silicon mask, for protein I use Aphogee Two Minute treatment and as a leave-in Redken Anti Snap smells and works amazing. I do heat both the treatments. If you don't want to get the bonnet, you can just as easily put on a shower cap and wave your dryer about your head for 15 minutes... ;)

I think I'd try switching conditioners, your hair does seem thirsty!
I'm in the market for a new brand too, but I've had some luck with Cantu for Natural Hair. My hair will begin to feel weighed down after using it for weeks on end, but on and off I find it helps with my curl definition and keeping frizz at bay. Nowhere sells it as cheap as WalMart but still, it's not too pricey at the drugstore or through Amazon.
also keep shampoos to a minimum, maybe 2 a week, and don't towel dry at all. squish to condish would be a great technique to incorporate in the shower too, if you're not already doing that!

Just bought some of this conditioner: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000TGA3C0/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Not sure how it will do, I may need to try a few different ones till one works. I'm gonna try washing with conditioner every day too and maybe shampoo once every week or two.

Thanks for the opinion though, really hope I can get it under control sometime :/

Good advice always, everyone's skin is different. Try it before a weekend you don't plan on going out ;)

I use Aussie Moist Conditioner and have reduced breakouts since I started doing this, but YMMV!

Has anyone used the Aphogee Keratin 2 Minute Reconstructor?


From my understanding, it's not CG friendly, but some people are REALLY standing by it.

​

Olaplex 3 is another people shout to the mountain tops about.


My low/normal porosity hair needs protein STAT. It's so dang soft rn.

I scrub all the way on my scalp, so yes I would say pretty well. I don't scritch and preen, but my scalp does get itchy and I might scratch. I'm using this https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B079C358TM/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
and this
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B077HSKSTH/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I haven't tried any protein treatments, but maybe I should. These all sound kind of super weird to put on your hair, even the moisture treatments. How long do you put these on for?

I don't feel like the hair wetting is causing a problem, but I'll change up my routine to see if that's the case.

I tried Dr. Bronners for the first time this afternoon, I have a pretty coarse, curly beard (~2 mos growth) and it seemed to help soften things up quite a bit and catch some flyaways. LINK

Not AB, but for hair care, have you tried Vanicream's Free & Clear shampoo and conditioner? I ask because I have bad seborrheic dermatitis on my scalp and have tried dozens of shampoos/conditioners to get it under control and they've all been irritating.... but I've been using the Free & Clear stuff for a few days now and my scalp no longer hurts or itches. (It's still flaky as hell, though.)

Shampoo ingredients:
Purified water, lauryl glucoside, coco-glucoside, acrylates copolymer, disodium cocoyl glutamate, sodium cocoyl glycinate, glycerin, sucrose cocoate, panthenol, pentylene glycol, 1,2-hexanediol, sodium cocoyl glutamate, disodium EDTA, caprylyl glycol, sodium hydroxide, sodium chloride.

Conditioner ingredients:
Purified water, cetearyl alcohol, hydrogenated polydecene, propanediol, distearoylethyl dimonium chloride, glycerin, ceteareth-20, panthenol, 1,2-hexanediol, arginine, caprylyl glycol

I'd suggest experimenting with different shampoos. You need to try and find a good quality shampoo that it designed for oily hair. This should help to treat the smell and your oily scalp.

Are you using any other products like conditioner or hair oil? I'd suggest trying a leave in conditioner like http://www.amazon.com/HEALTHY-TRI-WHEAT-LEAVE-IN-CONDITIONER--PACKAGING/dp/B0009EXOO6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1405072139&sr=8-1

It's hard to give you much more advise without seeing what your hair looks like. I would suggest that you try what I've suggested and if it doesn't work then upload a photo here and ask for more advice! :)

https://www.amazon.com/OGX-Conditioner-Sustainable-Ingredients-Strengthens/dp/B0048F38DY

Can you explain exactly how you used the diffuser? How you held it, hot how hot the hairdryer was, how long you used it? That might help. I can't go without my diffuser!

I would try to go completely shampoo-free for 2-3 weeks. See what happens. You do need to give your hair time to adjust to it. It may take a while, but it WILL generate much less oil over time. After a few months, I could go without washing my hair (at all--no conditioner, nothing) for a week without it being noticeable. Well, noticeable in terms of oil--my curls weren't exactly at their best at that point. :)

If you really can't go without the shampoo, try something gentler. I can't remember off the top of my head if it's 100% Curly Girl Method-friendly (there are no parabens/sulfates at least), but I love the Herbal Essences Naked Cleansing Conditioner if plain conditioner isn't cutting it that day.

Also, for frizz, have you tried leaving conditioner in your hair? I don't get a lot of results from leave-in conditioner, so I'll usually literally leave some regular conditioner in my hair rather than wash it out.

Recently tried this:

Denorex Dandruff Treatment System

Made my hair lose my oils (I felt that squeaky clean)

Renpure Solutions Cleansing Conditioner

J.R. Liggett Bar Shampoo, Herbal Formula

Suave Essentials Conditioner, Tropical Coconut

Mane 'n Tail Moisturizer - Texturizer

Shea Moisture Restorative Conditioner

Shea Moisture Raw Shea Retention Shampoo

When I first started co-washing, I used the last 3 products. At first everything felt/looked fine, but after a while, my hair felt 'ugh' and looked slightly frizzy. The other products I've bought and used afterwards and probably not as a long.

Thanks, also the "this stuff" is the same shampoo and conditioner you mentioned before. Currently I use this so I wont switch up until I run out unless the coconut oil would be vastly different though?

Try conditioner washing with a cleansing conditioner. It won't strip your oils like shampoo while still cleaning your hair I use this https://www.amazon.com/Herbal-Essences-Naked-Cleansing-Conditioner/dp/B00F4TQ49I/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1498631428&sr=8-1&keywords=herbal+essence+cowash

I use the same cleansing conditioner, that I use on my beard, on my scalp to soften up any hairs for shaving.


Once I shave, I wash my face & scalp with Cetaphil daily facial cleanser


Then I use cold water, followed by Witch Hazel astringent. The proper item for what you're attempting to do with rubbing alcohol.


Lastly, I moisturize with Cremo SPF 20 face lotion

Love this idea! Maybe once we grow a bit more we can do more specific threads, too. This sub has been a wealth of information already, I love it.


Hair
Description: I have long curly hair. My goal is to keep it voluminous on top, and not-frizzy with defined loose corkscrews on the bottom. Similar Similar I do the "no-poo"/Curly Girl Method method which eliminates sulfates and silicones.


Tresemme Naturals Moisturizing Conditioner: I used to be a firm believer in using expensive hair care products exclusively. I used Redken for many years, then wandered into DevaCurl territory when I started No-Poo. Nothing was able to detangle, soften, and moisturize my hair just right, until THIS!


Shea Moisture Restorative Conditioner I use this as a leave-in conditioner. Gels and mousse have worked similarly, but my husband hates the crunchy feel. This holds my curls, yet keeps them soft and touchable.


Skin
Description: I'm 25, used to tan, but after noticing a sun spot, I stopped! Since then, I've been focused on anti-aging and taking good care of my skin.


Biore Sunscreen SPF 50 this is the product that changed my life and stopped my skin from aging. Not greasy, no whitecast, sits well under makeup. I can't recommend Asian sunscreen enough, and this one is my favorite!


Perfume
Elizabeth and James Nirvana White "peony, chic muguet, and tender musk for a feminine scent with dark sophistication" so lovely. The first perfume my husband stopped to specifically comment on! Honorable mention to Nirvana Bourbon as well. In fact, has anyone here tried the Nirvana Rose? I'm interested but unfortunately don't have a way to smell it for free where I live!

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Beard-Oil-Conditioning-Nobleman-Conditioner/dp/B00I9803MK/ref=pd_ys_sf_s_rp_a1_3_p?ie=UTF8&refRID=0TBFS9D0C86YS64E06MH

I had the same prob, I have being using this for less than a week and I can already tell the difference! Don't think about it twice!

Uh. Not sure what you mean by right. Conditioner, what should I be looking for, a leave in conditioner?

Currently using this :https://www.amazon.com/OGX-Conditioner-Nourishing-Sustainable-Ingredients/dp/B000TGA3C0

And what's a good hair oil, it's that kinda like a leave in conditioner too?

No it's something different. It's a conditioner with gentle cleansers in it. It's exactly what it says it is; a cleansing conditioner.

For example:https://www.amazon.com/Renpure-Solutions-Cleansing-Conditioner-Rosemary/dp/B0081CWUE8

I have normal (not dry, not oily) thick wavy hair (but straighten it) and I really like this kind https://www.amazon.com/Ethique-Eco-Friendly-Conditioner-Normal-Dry-Guardian/dp/B07572RXKP/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=ethique+conditioner&qid=1555697896&s=gateway&sr=8-3

I wash my hair about every 3-4 days. Although, I know ordering it isn’t super zero waste, but I’ve ordered a few bars at a time (shampoo, face wash, shave bar etc.) and it came in one bubble mailer envelope with no other extra packaging.

I know, the number of Shea Moisture products is overwhelming. I did a bunch of research before I bought their products. I'd say that the internet's favorite styling products are these:

• The Curl Enhancing Smoothie. This is more like a leave-in than a gel. It's a nice and heavy product, which I really like. It has some protein in it. My hair is protein sensitive and it's too much for regular use.
  
• Moisture retention conditioner. This is super moisturizing and protein free. It's a bit lighter than the smoothie. The advantage of this product is that you can use it as a leave-in or rinse out or deep conditioner. I've gotten great results from using it as a leave-in. I'm using it less lately because I think it made my hair over-moisturized. Like it feels too soft now.
  
• Jamaican Black Castor Oil Reparative Leave-In Conditioner. I've never tried this but it's well loved. It has a lot of protein which some people like.
  
• If you want something lighter, the new Fruit Fusion Mousse is well liked. (Not to be confused with the 10 in 1 super fruit line.) I've never used this product either but I want to try it.

https://www.amazon.com/Trader-Joes-Nourish-Moisturizing-Conditioner/dp/B002LV317A

Is this the product? If so, those ingredients look color safe to me.

1. Try an all natural pomade. Badger Balm is nice. It smells amazing and works well. Had a bearded friend back home who used it on his head and in his beard (lightly in the beard) and it smelled fantastic. Mmmm... bergamot.
   
   
   
2. You do have to be somewhat serious about it. It takes time for your hair and scalp to reset. The first few weeks you will be a little oily. Frequent brushing with a good brush helps. So does just rinsing with warm water in the shower (and brushing with the water running on your head). Don't overdo it though. After a few weeks you should balance out.
   
   
3. Yes you can use conditioner. BUT... nothing with silicone or sulfates in it. Try to stay as natural as possible. There's a short list about half way down this page. Suave naturals is cheap and has neither in it. Personally I use Dr Bronners. The lavender smell will put you to sleep.
   
   edit: wrong link
   
   
   
   It is just something you have to stick with for a little while. People get discouraged in the beginning because it "feels gross". That goes away. If you MUST clean it, Dr. Bronners Castile Soap can take the edge off. It's best to rinse with it though, if that makes sense. It actually is great for your skin, so draw a nice warm bath, add a couple tablespoons to the water, then lay down and swish your hair around, then rinse. Adding any kind of clenser (or conditioner for that matter) directly to your head can overpower your own natural oils. Always dilute it in something and rinse your hair with it. Like with conditioners, keep a cup in the shower, add a bit to the cup and mix it, then pour it over your hair. This is why it used to be called a cream rinse.

It's Percy Nobleman - I have no idea if that's a well known brand as this was bought for me as a gift and I'm fairly new to this sort of thing!

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Beard-Oil-Conditioning-Nobleman-Conditioner-x/dp/B00I9803MK

Going sulfate/silicone free really helped me define my wave pattern and make my hair more manageable - check out /r/curlyhair! It might help you to start sleeping on a satin pillowcase, too, as the slippery fabric is less likely to mess up and leach the moisture out of your hair while you sleep. As for styling products, I generally leave in a little bit of my Cantu conditioner and then scrunch in some eco styler gel or Not Your Mother's Beach Babe cream.

Okay, that second paragraph is good advice. I kinda did that the first time around in March (there's a pic up there) - they said it was achievable, but definitely products play a major role. However, my hair is damaged, so I need to fix that first. I googled up something (kinda) near me, and it has like 43 reviews (all claiming that this one person is really good) and high rating. The price is 20 for men. The website doesn't look all that great though. The pictures (like 53 of them) are mostly girls, but all look fairly decent. There's another place (further) and it's like 15 for men, but has 90 reviews with high rating. Most of them seem to be girls.

Anyway, back to what I mentioned before, my hair is damaged, so AFTER the haircut - how do I make sure it grows out healthy and lush, non-damaged, non-frizzy, and thick as possible? That's my biggest issue. I don't want to get a haircut just to fuck up again - I don't mind trims, but fuck ups bother me lol. And, I guess, how to get thicker bangs (and hair) cause the pic's speak for themselves lol. That's where I read about keratin stuff, but yeah. To complicate it further, I'm not sure what products to buy and how frequently to use it. I'd really like someone who can help me on this via Skype or something. It'll mean so much<3.

And, I found these products, but again there's so many to choose from and dunno how frequently to use:
https://www.amazon.com/Sally-Hershberger-Hair-Hydration-Keratin/dp/B003N209EO?ie=UTF8&keywords=sally%20hershberger&qid=1416181022&ref_=sr_1_2&s=beauty&sr=1-2
https://www.amazon.com/Nexxus-Treatment-Pro-Mend-Binding-Leave/dp/B004H4VQ4Y?ie=UTF8&keywords=nexxus%20split%20end%20binding&qid=1416180906&ref_=sr_1_1&s=beauty&sr=1-1
https://www.amazon.com/Sexy-Hair-Concepts-Soy-Tri-Wheat-Conditioner/dp/B0009EXOO6?ie=UTF8&keywords=healthy%20sexy%20hair&qid=1416180954&ref_=sr_1_1&s=beauty&sr=1-1