It is a 5 in 1 treatment that can replace shampoo, conditioner, hair treatment, shine enhancer, detanger and now also blow dry primer - so 6 things. but there is no wrong way to use it. originally you apply to dry hair first, let sit 3 minutes then wet hair, add more so it lathers and rinse. You can also use it just on dry hair and go in with your favorite shamooo and conditioner, or if you shampoo just use it as a treatment mask on wet hair after. It works great in my opinion. Also worth noting, if you only tried the original amber vanilla, yogiberry or coconutty versions, all scents in this offering and newer and lather more. those original ones did not lather.