Should curly hair get conditioner from root to tip?
Yes. The American Academy of Dermatology says dry or curly hair should get conditioner along its entire length. Comb it in the shower before you rinse.
Where conditioner goes
Fine or straight hair only needs conditioner on the ends. Dry or curly hair should get it along the whole length.
When to detangle
For thick, curly hair, AAD says the best time to comb is in the shower before rinsing out your conditioner, with a wide-tooth comb.
When to stop
Stop a product and see a board-certified dermatologist if you get burning, swelling, blistering, hives, or symptoms that get worse. Get urgent help for trouble breathing or swelling of the face or lips.
Source
Reviewed September 23, 2026. General education, not diagnosis or personal medical advice.