When to Use a Conditioner
Conditioners should always be used after shampooing our pets to replace the oils, or sebum, that we removed during bathing. But not all conditioners are the same. Conditioners are made up of emollients or humectants or a combination of both. Emollients are made to coat the hair and skin and hold moisture in, so they actually repel water. Humectants are designed to draw moisture into the skin and hydrate. Different hair types require different mixtures of these. Short hair breeds rely more on the emollients, or grease, to protect, where long haired breeds need moisture to protect the hair and skin. The best conditioners also contain nutrients which feed the skin and hair from the outside in. Make sure you understand the needs of the pet and choose the right conditioner to achieve a healthy coat.
Emollients vs. Humectants: What’s the Difference?
- Emollients coat the hair and skin to seal moisture in. They add a protective, water-repellent layer and smoothness.
- Humectants draw moisture into the skin and hair to hydrate from within.
- Combination conditioners do both, hydrating and then sealing that hydration in.
Choosing a Conditioner by Coat Type
- Short coats rely more on emollients for protection. In the Iv San Bernard Traditional line, Lemon is formulated for short coats.
- Medium coats need a balance of protection and hydration. Banana is formulated for medium coats.
- Long coats and cats need moisture to protect the hair and skin. Green Apple is formulated for long coats and cats.
- Seniors often have drier skin. Green Tomato is formulated for senior pets.
- Puppies need gentle care. Talc is formulated for puppies.
- Sensitive or allergic skin: we recommend the Mineral Red line.
When to Use Conditioner
- After every shampoo, to replace the oils removed during bathing
- Before shampooing as well, in the CLOSE-OPEN-CLOSE technique, for very dry, matted or greasy coats
- Applied directly into mats with a PEK to help detangle
Dilute about 1 part product to 3 parts water, and leave conditioner on for about 5 minutes before rinsing. Iv San Bernard conditioners are humectants that absorb into the skin to hydrate and put back the oils that were lost, and they also contain nutrients that feed the skin and hair from the outside in.
Shop all conditioners, masks and PEKs. Related reading: why a proper conditioner protects the hair.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I use conditioner every time I bathe my dog?
Yes. Conditioner should always follow shampoo to replace the oils removed during bathing.
What is the difference between emollient and humectant conditioners?
Emollients coat the hair and skin to seal moisture in, while humectants draw moisture into the skin to hydrate. Many conditioners combine both.
Which conditioner is best for a short-coated dog?
Short coats rely more on emollients for protection. In the Iv San Bernard Traditional line, Lemon is formulated for short coats.
How long should I leave conditioner on my dog?
About 5 minutes, so it has time to absorb before rinsing.