The Difference Between a Conditioner and Balm

A hair conditioner and hair balm look similar and both are applied to the hair immediately after shampooing. Therefore, it seems that these 2 products have a similar effect. This is partly true but there are several important differences between a conditioner and balm.

5-Minute Crafts would like to tell you about how a hair conditioner and hair balm work, and how they are different from each other.

Hair conditioner

A conditioner is a hair care product used to improve the appearance, texture, and manageability of hair.

A conditioner is recommended to be a permanent part of your hair care, even if it’s easy to comb and looks good. This is due to the fact that the shampoo not only washes away the dirt from the hair but also opens the cuticle — the outer layer of the hair follicle which is mainly composed of keratin. A conditioner closes the cuticle, protects the hair from damage, softens it, and makes combing easier. In addition, it makes hair less brittle and without unwanted electrification. Even perfectly healthy hair can become prone to breakage and damage over time if you don’t use a conditioner.

A conditioner should be used after shampooing the hair. Due to its light texture, it’s suitable for daily use. It should be applied only on medium hair lengths at a distance of about 1 inch from the roots, then washed off or left on the hair. The exact instructions for using each specific conditioner can be found on the product packaging.

Hair balm

A hair conditioner and hair balm seem to be the same product with the same functions and properties. However, the difference is that a conditioner is lighter in consistency and mainly acts on the surface of the hair, sealing its cuticle. A balm is more nourishing. In addition to acting on the surface, it penetrates deeper into the structure of the hair and solves specific problems, like dryness, damage, etc. A conditioner is used for protection, shine, smoothing, and easy combing. While a balm is used for regeneration and hydration.

Another difference is in the way they are used. A conditioner should be applied only on medium hair lengths at a distance of about 1 inch from the roots, while a balm can be applied directly to the scalp. However, due to its rich texture, it’s recommended to use it a maximum of 2-3 times a week, as more frequent use can weigh down the hair. But as with a conditioner, more precise instructions can be found on the packaging of a particular product.