What does a leave-in conditioner primarily do?

A leave-in conditioner primarily serves to detangle and moisturize the hair. Its formulation usually includes a blend of moisturizing agents that help to soften the hair, making it more manageable and less prone to breakage. The added moisture is crucial for maintaining healthy hair, especially for those with dry, damaged, or curly hair types.

By offering detangling benefits, leave-in conditioners help to reduce knots and snarls, which simplifies the process of combing or styling the hair. This detangling property is particularly valuable for individuals who experience issues with hair tangling or who are working to minimize the friction that can cause further damage.

While some leave-in conditioners may provide mild heat protection, their primary function is not to serve as a heat protectant. Adding color to hair is a purpose fulfilled by hair dye or color-treating products, not leave-in conditioners. Similarly, while they can aid in styling by making hair easier to manage, this is a secondary benefit compared to the primary functions of detangling and moisturizing.