Many people worry that using conditioner could make their hair fall out or irritate their scalp, especially when they notice more hair shedding in the shower. But is conditioner really to blame?
In most cases, conditioner doesn’t cause hair loss and actually helps protect your hair from damage. When used correctly, it smooths the cuticle, prevents hair breakage, and keeps your strands healthy and hydrated.
However, using conditioner incorrectly can sometimes lead to buildup or irritation, which may indirectly lead to hair loss. According to the North American Contact Dermatitis Group (NACDG) data, allergies from hair care products represented 9% of all allergies in patients who underwent patch testing [1], so it’s important to learn how to reduce your risk.
In this article, you’ll discover whether conditioner can actually cause hair loss or harm your scalp. We’ll break down how it affects your hair health, when it can cause problems, and how to use it safely to keep your strands strong and protected.
Key takeaways
Hair conditioners contain conditioning agents — ingredients that help make hair look and feel smoother, shinier, and easier to manage [2]. If you use conditioner as recommended, it’s unlikely to cause hair loss.
In fact, conditioners are designed to replace the natural sebum that’s removed by shampoos and help protect your hair after chemical or physical damage [2]. Hair health researchers advise that regular cleaning with shampoo will not damage your hair, even if used every day, so long as regular conditioner is used [2].
Using the wrong type of shampoo for your hair can gradually damage your hair shafts, especially if you don’t use a conditioner to protect and restore your locks [2]. Check out the Wimpole Clinic’s advice on using shampoo here.
So, when used correctly, conditioners may actually prevent hair breakage by keeping your hair in good condition. However, there are a few specific scenarios in which conditioner may indirectly contribute to hair loss, which we’ll explore here in detail.
One of the main reasons that people worry about conditioner and hair loss is the visible hair shedding that appears in the shower when you wash your hair. But don’t worry — the hair you see in the shower after conditioning is usually hair that had already fallen out naturally and was just released while washing or detangling.
People with healthy hair lose up to 100 strands every day [3], and showering can highlight this hair loss. Below, see how much daily hair loss is considered normal:
There are, however, two main ways in which conditioner may indirectly cause or worsen hair loss. One of these is allergic reactions to conditioner ingredients, and the other is product buildup on the scalp.
The most common causes of allergic reactions from hair products are hair dyes, followed by fragrance ingredients found in shampoos and conditioners [1]. Most hair conditioners contain fragrance ingredients, which are known triggers for scalp contact dermatitis [1], so people with a history of skin sensitivity or scalp eczema may wish to choose fragrance-free formulas.
Fortunately, allergic reactions to conditioners are rare [2]. Because conditioners have limited direct contact with the scalp, they are less likely to cause allergic contact dermatitis compared to other hair products [4].
Many conditioners are designed to be rinsed off the scalp soon after you apply them. Not rinsing out conditioners properly or leaving them on too long can lead to buildup, blocked hair follicles, or scalp irritation.
If buildup is severe or the scalp becomes irritated enough, this could potentially contribute to hair loss. Product buildup may also be the reason your hair is greasy. This is a misuse issue, rather than being a problem with conditioners themselves.
Common hair conditioners contain several different types of ingredients. Each of these has its own purpose and can affect your scalp in various ways.
Silicones in conditioners are used to smooth, protect, and add shine to your hair. Common silicones found in conditioners include dimethicone and simethicone [2].
While these can protect hair from breakage, they have the potential to cause buildup on your scalp if overused. The risk of buildup is higher if you apply conditioners to the roots of your hair or delay rinsing off products which are not designed to be left in.
These ingredients are used to give conditioners a nice scent and long shelf life. Unfortunately, they’re common allergens that can cause contact dermatitis.
Balsam of Peru, Fragrance mix I, and Fragrance mix II are regularly identified as scalp allergens [4], and these are found in many conditioners. You can reduce your risk of an allergic reaction by rinsing conditioner off soon after applying it, and going fragrance-free if you know your skin is sensitive.
Hydrolyzed silk protein or animal protein are often used in hair conditioners [2], as well as botanical oils like coconut oil or argan oil. While these ingredients come from natural sources, that doesn’t mean they’re risk-free. Some people are sensitive or allergic to these ingredients and may have an adverse reaction to using conditioners that contain them.
Surfactants in conditioner form a thin, even layer on the hair surface, changing it from slightly dry to smoother and more hydrated [5]. Depending on how much is used, it can create one or two layers that help protect and condition the hair.
For people with sensitive skin, or when regularly left on the skin for too long, surfactants may irritate the scalp and trigger contact dermatitis [6].
How you use conditioner matters. Focus conditioner on the mid-lengths and ends of your hair, which are the areas most prone to dryness and damage. Avoid applying it directly to the roots near the scalp, as this can lead to buildup or irritation, especially if you have fine or oily hair.
There are three main types of conditioner, and they are used in different ways:
Instant conditioners are the most popular for salon and home use, and are perfect for daily use with minimally damaged hair. You apply them straight after shampooing and leave them around 5 minutes before rinsing off [2].
Also known as intensive hair conditioners, these are more concentrated than instant conditioners and you leave them on your hair for 20 to 30 minutes. They’re designed for occasional use for extremely dry hair (no more than weekly), and also before chemical treatments such as dyeing [2].
Unlike instant conditioners, blow-drying lotions do not contain oil and can therefore be left on your hair. People with excessive scalp sebum and fine hair may use these regularly instead of instant conditioners. [2]
If your hair starts to feel heavy, greasy, or dull despite regular washing, use a clarifying shampoo once every 2-4 weeks. This helps remove buildup from hair conditioners so your hair stays light and healthy.
If you’re losing hair, the root cause is likely to be something other than your conditioner. Here are some of the top culprits:
Androgenetic alopecia, known as male or female pattern baldness, is the most common cause of hair loss, affecting more than 50% of men and women at some point in their lives [7]. It causes hair loss in a predictable pattern, tracked using the Norwood scale for men and the Ludwig scale for women.
The Norwood scale for male pattern baldness
Telogen effluvium happens when a larger number of hairs than usual enter the resting (telogen) phase of the growth cycle. It’s often triggered by stress, illness, surgery, or major life changes, and usually appears around 3 months after the event [8]. The good news is that it’s usually temporary once the trigger is resolved.
Low levels of iron, vitamin D, zinc, biotin or other nutrients can affect your hair growth and strength. Because hair follicles rely on a steady supply of nutrients, a poor diet can lead to hair shedding or brittle strands.
Correcting deficiencies through diet or supplements often helps reverse this type of hair loss. Learn more here about vitamin deficiencies and hair loss.
Hormonal changes, such as those related to pregnancy, childbirth, menopause [9], or a thyroid imbalance, can disrupt the hair growth cycle. These changes may cause diffuse thinning or increased shedding, but hair often improves once hormone levels stabilise.
In autoimmune hair loss, your white blood cells mistakenly attack healthy hair follicles, causing hair loss. Alopecia areata is a type of autoimmune hair loss that affects up to 2% of people worldwide [10]. It can appear suddenly, but sometimes resolves on its own or with medication.
Certain medications can cause hair loss, including chemotherapy, beta-blockers, and antidepressants. Hair shedding from medication usually begins weeks after starting treatment and usually resolves once the medication is stopped or adjusted.
Wearing tight ponytails, braids, or extensions over time can put too much pressure on your locks, leading to a hair loss condition called traction alopecia. It’s most common in women who wear Afro-Caribbean hairstyles that involve tight braids [11].
Allowing the hair to rest and avoiding tight styles usually prevents further damage, although hair follicles can be permanently damaged in some cases. If this happens, you may need a hair transplant to regrow your locks.
Common scalp problems such as dermatitis, scalp psoriasis, or fungal infections can inflame or damage your hair follicles, leading to hair loss. Treating the underlying condition with medicated shampoos or topical treatments can help restore a healthier scalp and lead to regrowth.
If you’re unsure what’s causing your hair loss, we’re here to help. The Wimpole Clinic has been awarded best hair transplant clinic for four years running, so you can rest assured you’ll be in safe hands.
Our expert trichologists will carry out a thorough assessment to identify the reason your hair is falling out. They’ll ask questions about your medical history and details of your hair loss, and more use diagnostic trichology tests such as a hair pull test or blood tests for hair loss.
Once you have a diagnosis, our hair doctors can advise you on treatment options. These may include medications like minoxidil or finasteride, lifestyle changes, PRP hair treatment, low-level laser therapy, or even a natural-looking hair transplant.
Book a free consultation at your nearest clinic location to learn what’s causing your hair loss and which treatments may be best for you.
Yes, but choose a specifically formulated anti-dandruff conditioner. Avoid heavy or oily products that can trap flakes or cause buildup. Look for ingredients like ketoconazole (found in Nizoral shampoo) or Piroctone Olamine, an antibacterial and antifungal agent, which soothes the inflamed scalp and reduces flaking by destroying the fungal infection. Check out this Piroctone Olamine dandruff control shampoo from the Wimpole Clinic.
Not usually, because leave-in conditioners are designed to be lightweight and safe for regular use. However, applying too much or using ones with excessively heavy silicones or oils can cause buildup. Choose a formula suited to your hair type to keep your scalp and hair in good condition.
If your scalp is easily irritated, look for fragrance-free, hypoallergenic conditioners with soothing ingredients like aloe vera or oat extract. Avoid products with a high alcohol content or strong fragrances. Patch-test new products first to reduce the risk of redness, scalp itching, or allergic reactions.
Conditioner generally strengthens hair by coating and protecting the cuticle, reducing breakage and friction. However, buildup from heavy silicones or improper rinsing can make your hair limp over time. Using the right conditioner for your hair type and clarifying occasionally keeps strands strong, smooth, and healthy.
Wimpole Clinic Services:
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Talk to a specialist
Mr Log Murugesan MBChB, MSc, FRCS(Plast) Consultant Plastic, Cosmetic, Reconstructive and Hair Restoration Surgeon
Mr Murugesan’s expertise in hair restoration surgery is deeply rooted in his background as a fully accredited, UK-trained Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon. Registered with the General Medical Council (GMC number 6145557), he brings a level of precision and expertise to hair restoration that is shaped by his specialist training in plastic surgery.
His interest in hair restoration began in 2010 while caring for burns patients at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital. This passion evolved through his extensive plastic surgery training in London, where he honed his skills both academically and clinically at some of the UK’s most prestigious institutions. Seeking to refine his expertise further, he pursued sub-speciality fellowship training in Aesthetic Surgery under the guidance of highly experienced aesthetic surgeons in London. Additionally, his experience in Reconstructive Microsurgery at two of the world’s top-ranked cancer hospitals, Princess Margaret (UHN) in Toronto and The Royal Marsden in London, further enriched his surgical acumen.
Beyond his clinical work, Mr Murugesan has contributed significantly to medical education and research. He has taught anatomy at St George’s Medical School and earned a distinction for his laboratory work in regenerative biology at the Randall Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics at King’s College London. His commitment to academic excellence also led him to obtain a Master’s degree in Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery from University College London. Recognised for his contributions to improving safety in aesthetic surgery, he was awarded the prestigious Hackett Memorial Award by the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS).
With a meticulous and patient-centred approach, Mr Murugesan provides honest and comprehensive consultations, ensuring that each patient receives a tailored treatment plan aligned with their goals. His expertise encompasses hair restoration for all hair types and genders, including scalp, brow, and beard transplantation, as well as hairline-lowering procedures. Utilising both FUE and FUT techniques, he delivers natural and aesthetically refined results. With his advanced surgical knowledge, level of care, attention to detail and precision, patients can feel confident that their hair restoration journey is guided by rigorous standards of safety, skill, and care.
