Yes, you can skip shampoo and just use conditioner. This method is called co-washing, or conditioner washing. It involves using only conditioner to cleanse and condition your hair, skipping the shampoo step entirely. Many people find this method beneficial, especially those with dry or curly hair.
What is Co-Washing?
Co-washing means using conditioner to clean your hair instead of shampoo. This is different from simply adding a conditioner after shampooing. Instead, the conditioner acts as both a cleanser and a conditioner. Real Simple confirms that co-washing is "conditioner-only washing," skipping shampoo entirely.
Benefits of Co-Washing
- More moisture: Conditioner adds moisture, leaving hair softer and less prone to dryness. Quora notes that conditioner's purpose is to add moisture, making hair manageable.
- Less greasy hair: Some individuals find their hair less greasy using only conditioner than when using shampoo. Reddit cites users who experience less greasy hair with co-washing.
- Gentle cleansing: Co-washing can be gentler on the scalp and hair, ideal for those with sensitive scalps.
Potential Drawbacks
- Buildup: Since co-washing doesn't cleanse as deeply as shampoo, product buildup can occur. Reddit mentions that co-washing may lead to scalp buildup.
- Not for everyone: Co-washing may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those with very oily hair or scalps. Health suggests co-washing as a step on a "no 'poo" path, implying it might not be for all hair types.
Using a Cleansing Conditioner
A cleansing conditioner is specifically formulated to clean and condition simultaneously. It's a good choice if you want to try co-washing but are concerned about buildup.
In summary, skipping shampoo and only using conditioner is possible and is known as co-washing. While it offers benefits for many, it's important to consider potential drawbacks and choose the method best suited for your hair type and scalp.
