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The 16 Best Deep Conditioners for Natural Hair

Our best overall pick is Camille Rose Algae Renew Deep Conditioner

By
Kindra Moné
Kindra Mone headshot
Kindra Moné
Kindra is a freelance fashion, beauty, and lifestyle writer, and a contributing writer for Byrdie. You can find her work in Cosmopolitan, HollywoodLife, and Verywell. 
Byrdie's Editorial Guidelines
Updated on 07/29/22 12:07AM
Deep conditioners we recommend on a grey background

Byrdie / Lecia Landis

If you have thick wavy, curly, or coily hair, then you know that great hair starts with a quality wash day routine. While shampooing and regular conditioning are a good start, trust us when we tell you that subbing in a deep conditioner regularly can help natural hair reach its full potential. The best deep conditioners make it easier to manage hair, offer increased elasticity, and an improved overall look, feel, and texture. 

“Natural hair is always prone to dryness and breakage, so I would suggest deep conditioning weekly if you can get into the routine of it,” suggests Kendra Watson of Natural Sisters Salon. “If that’s too much for you, then aim for a biweekly session to get your healthiest hair.”

After consulting with a hairstylist specializing in natural hair, we conducted hours of research on the best deep conditioners, evaluating each formula based on its active ingredients, ability to moisturize, and how well it detangles. Our team then combined these results with our own research of fan-favorites plus stylist-recommended picks to create this list.

Ahead, find the best deep conditioners for an array of curl patterns and textures.

Our Top Picks
Best Overall:
Camille Rose Naturals Algae Renew Deep Conditioning Mask at Amazon ($19)
Jump to Review
Best Budget:
Aussie 3 Minute Miracle Moist Conditioner at Target ($7)
Jump to Review
Best Drugstore:
Mielle Organics Babassu Oil Mint Deep Conditioner at Amazon ($13)
Jump to Review
Best Value:
Eden Bodyworks Jojoba Monoi Deep Conditioner at Amazon ($16)
Jump to Review
Best for Scalp Health:
Mizani Scalp Care Deep Conditioner at Sleekshop.com (See Price)
Jump to Review
Best for Frizzy Hair:
Curls Blueberry Bliss Reparative Hair Mask at Amazon ($17)
Jump to Review
Best for Split Ends:
Coco & Eve Like a Virgin Hair Masque at Amazon ($39)
Jump to Review
Best for 4C Hair:
As I Am Hydration Elation at Amazon ($10)
Jump to Review
Best Protein-Free Treatment:
Curlsmith Double Cream Deep Quencher at Amazon ($29)
Jump to Review
Best Protein-Moisture Balance:
Curls Dynasty Pumpkin Mint Deep Treatment Masque at Amazon (See Price)
Jump to Review

Best Overall

Camille Rose Naturals Algae Renew Deep Conditioning Mask

Camille Rose Naturals Algae Renew Deep Conditioning Mask
PHOTO:

Amazon
$19 at Amazon $21 at Ulta $20 at Target
What We Like

  • Contains 65 vitamins

  • Includes biotin to promote growth

What We Don’t Like

  • Could have more slip

The Camille Rose Algae Renew Deep Conditioner is packed with 65 vitamins to give you stronger hair to retain length. Biotin extracted from algae is paired with cocoa and mango butter to stimulate growth and promote soft, manageable hair. You’ll especially love the ingredient list full of names that you can say 10 times fast and (more importantly) trust.

Key Ingredients: Blue-green algae, mango butter | Size: 8 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best Budget

Aussie 3 Minute Miracle Moist Conditioner

Aussie 3 Minute Miracle Moist Conditioner
PHOTO:

Walmart
$7 at Target $5 at Walmart $7 at Walgreens
What We Like

  • Quick results

  • Affordable

What We Don’t Like

  • Could be better at detangling

Whether you wear your hair straight or curly, the Aussie 3-Minute Miracle Moist Deep Conditioner will bring your dull hair back to life in just three minutes. Year after year, this product receives praise for leaving users with shiny, moisturized hair in no time flat and without breaking the bank.

Key Ingredients: Jojoba seed oil, avocado oil | Size: 8 or 16 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best Drugstore

Mielle Organics Babassu Oil Mint Deep Conditioner

Mielle Organics Babassu Oil Mint Deep Conditioner
PHOTO:

Amazon
$11 at Amazon $15 at Ulta $14 at Target
What We Like

  • Affordable

  • Made with certified organic ingredients

What We Don’t Like

  • Could have more slip

Mielle Organics is an organic hair care line that is made with ingredients you know and love. The Babassu Oil Mint Deep Conditioner has become a fan favorite for its quick-penetrating formula and drugstore-friendly price point. Even those with low-porosity hair rave that the babassu oil helps to smooth brittle ends and reduce breakage.

“It is a protein and replenishes moisture, so it makes my hair super soft while also strengthening it during the colder months—which can dry out my hair,” said one tester.

Key Ingredients: Babuso oil, rosemary extract, peppermint oil | Size: 8 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best Value

Eden Bodyworks Jojoba Monoi Deep Conditioner

Eden Bodyworks Jojoba Monoi Deep Conditioner
PHOTO:

Amazon
$16 at Amazon $11 at edenbodyworks.com
What We Like

  • Large size

  • Creamy texture

What We Don’t Like

  • Strong scent

This fan-favorite deep conditioner has a reputation for bringing thick, damaged hair back to life. Formulated with nourishing coconut oil, jojoba oil, and Monoi oil, reviewers say that it helps hair feel stronger, softer, and more manageable. Plus, you get 16 ounces of conditioner for just 10 bucks, making it a great value.

Key Ingredients: Coconut oil, jojoba oil, tea tree oil | Size: 16 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best for Scalp Health

Mizani Scalp Care Deep Conditioner

Mizani Scalp Care Deep Conditioner
PHOTO:

Walmart
View on Sleekshop.com
What We Like

  • Large size

  • Soothes itchy scalp

What We Don’t Like

  • Not ideal for fine hair

For those with an itchy, irritated scalp—relief is finally here. This soothing deep conditioner was specifically formulated to soothe itchy, red, flaking scalps for a clear and dandruff-free ‘do. NYC-based hairstylist Ashley Lee says, “I love how it makes my hair feel even though it’s also designed for a healthy scalp. The aloe vera and avocado oil make it intensely moisturizing for the hair and scalp, so I love everything about it.” 

Key Ingredients: Aloe vera, avocado oil | Size: 16.9 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best for Frizzy Hair

Curls Blueberry Bliss Reparative Hair Mask

CURLS Blueberry Bliss Reparative Hair Mask
PHOTO:

Ulta
$12 at Amazon $12 at Ulta View on Curls.com
What We Like

  • Smells good

  • Strengthens hair

What We Don’t Like

  • Not ideal for fine hair

The Curls Blueberry Bliss Reparative Hair Mask works exceptionally well for frizzy curls. With blueberry extract, aloe leaf juice, and chamomile extract, you bet this product smells amazing, and—better yet—it's clinically proven to restore and repair your curls. Your hair will feel soft and easier to detangle, resulting in curls that are more defined.

Key Ingredients: Certified organic blueberry extract, aloe leaf juice, and chamomile extract | Size: 8 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Byrdie Tip

For best results, consider the entire Curls Blueberry Bliss product collection, including the Curls Blueberry Bliss Hair Wash and Curls Blueberry Bliss Curl Control Jelly.

Best for Split Ends

Coco & Eve Like a Virgin Hair Masque

Coco & Eve Like A Virgin Super Nourishing Coconut & Fig Hair Masque
PHOTO:

Amazon
$39 at Amazon $39 at Ulta View on Cocoandeve.com
What We Like

  • Great for all hair types

  • Quick results

What We Don’t Like

  • Pricey

People of all hair textures are raving about this hair mask. The coconut and fig formula transforms hair, leaving it shiny and hydrated. Users say that this product gives them instant results, including taming frizz, treating split ends, and improving texture. Best of all, this mask comes with a complimentary detangling brush to help prevent hair breakage.

Key Ingredients: Raw virgin coconuts, fig, and shea butter | Size: 7.2 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best for 4C Hair

As I Am Hydration Elation

As I Am Hydration Elation
PHOTO:

Amazon
$10 at Amazon $30 at Walmart $16 at sallybeauty.com
What We Like

  • Strengthens hair

  • Promotes scalp health

What We Don't Like

  • Could have more slip

Beautiful kinky coils are often prone to breakage, and that’s why you’ll need a conditioner that strengthens as it moisturizes, like As I Am Hydration Elation. This deep-down treatment promotes healthy hair growth from the follicular level and repairs weak hair, leaving curls more manageable and noticeably stronger. 

Key Ingredients: Coconut, sugar cane, green tea | Size: 8 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Byrdie Tip

It's recommended to leave this creamy conditioner on for 15 to 30 minutes while wearing a plastic cap. Allow the product to penetrate under a hooded dryer for an even deeper treatment.

Best Protein-Free Treatment

Curlsmith Double Cream Deep Quencher

Curlsmith Double Cream Deep Quencher
PHOTO:

Amazon
$29 at Amazon $29 at Ulta $29 at Target
What We Like

  • Vegan

  • Protein-free

What We Don’t Like

  • Not ideal for fine hair 

When your dry curly hair needs an intense pick-me-up, reach for this ultra-rich deep conditioner. It has a thick, buttery texture that delivers the moisture you need without weighing your hair down. It’s best for those with medium to coarse thickness, plus it’s protein-free, so you can use it frequently. Just leave it on for 15 to 30 minutes once a week and watch the moisture magic happen. 

Key Ingredients: Sunflower oil, apricot kernel oil, avocado oil, shea butter, avocado oil | Size: 8 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best Protein-Moisture Balance

Curls Dynasty Pumpkin Mint Deep Treatment Masque

Curls Dynasty Pumpkin Mint Deep Treatment Masque
PHOTO:

Curls Dynasty

View on Amazon $15 at Target $13 at curlsdynasty.com
What We Like

  • Strengthens hair

  • Lightweight

What We Don’t Like

  • Contains fragrance

When your hair needs a little TLC, this restorative treatment masque is the way to go. It’s formulated to deeply penetrate your hair with all-natural vitamins, nutrients, and antioxidants for healthier and stronger hair. Enjoy the intense moisture and lightweight feel.

Key Ingredients: Aloe juice, blood orange extract, pumpkin extract | Size: 8 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best for Curl Definition

The Doux That's Deep 5-Minute Deep Conditioner

The Doux That's Deep 5-Minute Deep Conditioner
PHOTO:

Target
$23 at Target View on Thedoux.com
What We Like

  • Quick results

  • Helps with detangling

What We Don’t Like

  • Contains fragrance

This deep conditioner treats your scalp and your thirsty hair in just five minutes. The stimulating formula promotes the secretion of natural oils from your scalp and softens hair to reduce frizz. Plus, it’s enriched with honey and green tea to promote easy detangling, resulting in less breakage and more length retention. It’s the ultimate combo for a healthy scalp and enhanced curl definition.

Key Ingredients: Honey, green tea, mint extract | Size: 8 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best for Dry Hair

Shea Moisture Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Intensive Hydration Hair Masque

Shea Moisture Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Intensive Hydration Hair Masque
PHOTO:

Shea Moisture

$34 at Amazon $15 at Ulta $3 at Target
What We Like

  • Fairtrade ingredients

  • Strengthens hair

What We Don’t Like

  • Strong scent

Hello, hydration! This moisturizing treatment infuses hair with a powerful dose of nutrients and moisture to bring dry hair back to life. It fortifies follicles for stronger, healthier, less frizzy hair. It’s also infused with antioxidant-rich vitamin C and mafura oil, which work to protect hair from future damage.

Key Ingredients: Manuka honey, mafura oil, fig extract | Size: 12 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best Strengthening Treatment

Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Strengthening Hair Masque

Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Strengthening Hair Masque
PHOTO:

Ulta
$10 at Amazon $11 at Ulta $10 at Target
What We Like

  • Promotes scalp health

  • Large size

What We Don’t Like

  • Not ideal for fine hair

Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Masque Before and After

Byrdie / Sumiko Wilson

Read Full Review: Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Masque Reverses Heat Damage and Smells Amazing

Mielle makes our list once again for this creamy, rich deep conditioner works wonders on weak, brittle hair. It’s infused with rosemary, mint, and biotin to stimulate the scalp and promote healthy growth while penetrating deep into the shaft with honey and coconut oil to strengthen and soften. 

Key Ingredients: Rosemary, sunflower seed oil, biotin | Size: 12 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Strengthening Mask spread on hand.

Sumiko Wilson

Best for Coily Hair

Pattern Heavy Conditioner

$49 at Amazon $28 at Sephora $28 at Ulta
What We Like

  • Formulated specifically for coily textures

  • Detangles and defines

  • Nourishes damaged hair

What We Don’t Like

  • Contains PEGs

Pattern's Heavy Conditioner was formulated specifically for tight, coily textures. The ultra-creamy concoction contains a blend of plant-derived ingredients that work to hydrate, detangle, and define while nourishing tired, damaged hair.

Key Ingredients: Avocado oil, shea butter, sunflower seed wax | Size: 3–29 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best for Damaged Hair

TGIN Honey Miracle Hair Mask

$14 at Amazon $19 at Ulta $18 at Target
What We Like

  • All-natural formula

  • Repairs brittle, over-processed hair

  • Leaves hair feeling soft

What We Don’t Like

  • Very strong scent

This all-natural conditioning mask is just the thing for dry, damaged, and overly processed hair. Containing a blend of earth-derived ingredients like olive oil, jojoba, and honey, it vows to heal stressed strands and leave your main feeling soft and nourished.

Key Ingredients: Honey, olive oil, jojoba oil | Size: 12–32 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best Mask

Briogeo Don't Despair, Repair! Mask

Briogeo Don't Despair Repair Deep Conditioning Mask
PHOTO:

Sephora
$15 at Sephora $39 at Ulta $39 at Dermstore
What We Like

  • Repairs and prevents damage

  • Improves hair texture

  • Ultra-moisturizing

What We Don’t Like

  • High price per ounce

This mask from Briogeo promises to strengthen damaged hair, prevent breakage, improve texture, and leave natural hair moisturized. You can use it a few times a week in place of your normal conditioner, leaving it on for at least 10 minutes before rinsing to reap the full benefits.

Key Ingredients: Rosehip oil, algae extract, B vitamins | Size: 8–32 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Final Verdict

Our best overall pick is Camille Rose Naturals Algae Renew Deep Conditioning Mask, which contains 65 vitamins, biotin, and a blend of natural butters to leave hair soft and shiny while promoting growth. For a more affordable option, consider the drugstore classic Aussie 3-Minute Miracle with jojoba and avocado oils to add weightless moisture.

Meet the Expert

What to Look For When Buying a Deep Conditioner for Natural Hair

Protein

Textured hair expert Ashlee Lee recommends starting with your hair’s needs. She says, “Finding the perfect deep conditioner requires analysis of your hair. Do you need moisture? Is your hair damaged? Color-treated? You want to find a deep conditioner that directly addresses your hair needs.”

If your hair is color-treated, highly porous, or damaged from heat or other processing, you might need a deep conditioner like Curls Dynasty Pumpkin Mint Deep Treatment Masque with protein to strengthen your hair and bring it back to life. However, if your hair feels stiff or rigid, avoid protein and go for something that’s going to pack on the moisture, like Curlsmith Double Cream Deep Quencher.

Natural Ingredients

Stylist Kendra Watson says, “The biggest thing you want to consider is moisture. To do that, you want to make sure the ingredients are organic, without parabens, or anything unnatural. Tea Tree oil is a great ingredient to look out for. It’s ideal for hair growth because it stimulates your scalp and helps fight bad bacteria and fungus to keep your hair growing.” TGIN Honey Miracle Hair Mask is a great all-natural option containing very minimal ingredients.

Emollients and Humectants

If you’ve ever heard a conditioner praised for having “good slip,” it's referring to these two qualities. As with Pattern Heavy Conditioner (which boasts the brand's signature Pattern slip"), Emollients spread evenly and penetrate the hair to reduce moisture loss (think coconut, argan, avocado, and olive oils). Humectants are sealants that coat cuticles to reduce frizz and promote shine (like honey, shea butter, aloe vera, and vitamin B5).

These ingredients are key for hair that is hydrated and manageable, plus they make the detangling process so much easier so you can avoid knots and breakage. “In terms of consistency, thickness is not always the key,” says Lee. “But something that has good spreadability and also can be absorbed into your hair is important.”

FAQ
  • How do you use deep conditioners for natural hair?

    “Deep Conditioners are to be used directly after your last shampoo on towel-dried hair," explains Lee. "Most deep conditioners can be left on the hair anywhere from five to 30 minutes, but it is best to follow the manufacturer’s instructions, which are normally listed on the back of every product.”

  • Why is deep conditioning important?

    “Deep conditioning is truly on a case by case basis,” says Lee. “It’s more important to respond to what your hair needs versus just having a frequency that you’re aiming for. Everyone’s hair needs are different, and weather/environment are variables that affect changes in our hair. Deep conditioners are important because they replenish what may be lost in our hair. It’s important to lock those ingredients that products provide into our hair so that it can thrive and flourish.”

  • Do deep conditioners expire?

    Lee recommends making a note of when you first purchased your product because “all products have a shelf life. Most commonly, conditioners last between 12 and 24 months.” You can also look for the period-after-opening (PAO) symbol on the back of the label—it looks like a jar with an open lid. The number on the symbol will tell you how many months you can use the product after opening it.

Why Trust Byrdie

Byrdie contributor Kindra Moné has seven years of experience as a style and beauty writer with first-hand experience in natural hair. She considered dozens of products for this roundup, evaluating each on its active ingredients, ability to moisturize and detangle. She has personally reviewed Aussie 3 Minute Miracle Moist Deep Conditioner, The Doux THAT’S DEEP 5-Minute Deep Conditioner, Coco & Eve Like A Virgin Super Nourishing Coconut & Fig Hair Masque, SheaMoisture Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Intensive Hydration Hair Masque, and the Curls Dynasty Pumpkin Mint Deep Treatment Masque, which is her current favorite.

Updated by Jill DiDonato
Article Sources
Byrdie takes every opportunity to use high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.

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  4. Sung YK, Hwang SY, Cha SY, Kim SR, Park SY, Kim MK, Kim JC. The hair growth-promoting effect of ascorbic acid 2-phosphate, a long-acting Vitamin C derivative. J Dermatol Sci. 2006 Feb;41(2):150-2. doi: 10.1016/j.jdermsci.2005.11.010. Epub 2006 Jan 9. PMID: 16406749.

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