The best emollient conditioners - TOP 5 ranking in 2025
Emollient conditioners are designed to lubricate the hair, so they form a protective layer that helps to maintain moisture levels. They also help to reduce frizz, damage and the effects of moisture present in the air. An emollient conditioner is one of the care elements in the PEH balance (the others being proteins and humectants). An emollient conditioner is particularly good for hair that is coarse, lacks shine and is prone to frizz and breakage. A good conditioner should contain natural emollients that will not weigh hair down with chemical additives. Check out our ranking of emollient conditioners and choose the best one for your hair's needs.
The ranking factors we took into account are:
- The moisturising effect of the hair
- Reduction of frizz
- Price
- Performance
- Consistency
- Fragrance
- Composition
What ingredients to look for in a good emollient conditioner?
Moisturising ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerine and aloe vera are key to keeping hair moisturised and smooth, providing long-lasting hydration.
Vegetable oils, including flaxseed, sunflower, grapeseed, jojoba, argan and coconutoils, provide hair with essential fatty acids, resulting in better hydration and smoothness.
Shea butter is invaluable in moisturising, regenerating and strengthening hair, as well as protecting it from aggressive styling methods. Keratin, a natural ingredient in hair, strengthens hair, restoring smoothness and elasticity.
Panthenol soothes the scalp and adds shine and softness to the hair, while helping it retain moisture.
Plant extracts such as field horsetail, chamomile and fenugreek provide hair with essential nutrients, strengthening and improving the condition of the hair.
Take a look at our ranking of the best emollient conditioners:
The emollient conditioner 'Ride the Wave' from Twista is a real hit especially for curly hair. In tests, it gained instant recognition thanks to the effects that were visible after the first use. Natural ingredients, which make up 98% of the formula, such as passion fruit extracts, rosehip, hemp and grape seed oil, intensively smoothed and added shine to the hair of our testers 😍. In addition, the conditioner impresses with its pleasant fragrance and efficiency. Its multifunctionality, as it works as both a conditioner and an emollient mask, makes it the perfect choice for those who want well-groomed, shiny curls. We absolutely recommend 'Ride the Wave' from Twista as a reliable emollient conditioner!
Designed for dry hair, Garnier Fructis Hair Food Banana conditioner stands out for its 98% natural ingredient-based composition and vegan formula. Although it does not include it in its name, it works well as an emollient conditioner. It effectively nourishes the hair and makes it easier to comb, but does not always deal with frizz. The thick texture can make application and rinsing a little difficult, and on very dry hair, its effect may not be sufficient. Nevertheless, Garnier Fructis, Hair Food Banana conditioner is a good choice for those looking for basic care, especially with less demanding hair.
The Oriental Garden emollient conditioner from Yope is designed for dry and damaged hair. Its formula with vegetable keratin effectively repairs damage, while extracts of rose, sandalwood and vanilla moisturise and regenerate the hair. Shea butter and argan oil nourish it wonderfully and protect it from harmful external factors, giving the hair strength and elasticity. The biggest problem with this conditioner is the small packaging capacity, which, combined with the low yield, means that it runs out very quickly. In some, it also contributes to overloading the hair.
Emollient Rose Conditioner from Anwen, designed for high-porosity hair, presents mixed impressions. Although it contains natural oils such as broccoli, poppy and pumpkin, the presence of alcohols and excess perfumes can be objectionable. Its action proves to be moderately effective - it does not deal perfectly with frizz, and the moisturising and smoothing effect is moderate. It can be tested at the start of an emollient conditioner adventure, but there are more effective options available on the market.
