No, and in fact most conditioners will discolor or damage the Rub ‘n Restore® you worked so hard to apply. Furthermore, conditioner only works if the leather can absorb it.
Most auto interiors, a lot of home furniture, apparel and accessories have some kind of protective finish: essentially an acrylic or urethane paint on the surface that repels liquids. This finish adds durability, stain resistance and UV protection. But the heavier the finish is, the harder it is for a conditioner to migrate through to the leather itself. It will just sit on the surface, gradually transferring to other things or becoming sticky and attracting grime.
Thus, for finished leathers that repel liquids, the best you can do is maintain that protective finish with a product like Rub ‘ n Restore®. Sometimes a clear resin will do the trick, but color is usually needed to correct discoloration and wear. Colors also add UV protection where clear finishes (and conditioners) do not.
For absorbent leathers, we recommend using Moisturizing Cream before applying any color or clear finish. One application is permanent and will extend the life of the leather. However, it’s not to be substituted with other conditioners (which may repel the finish).
I’m only using product on the faded parts. I’ve always been told that leather needed to be “oiled” to prevent cracking, so just a moist cloth with. Water is all I need to do?
Leather does desiccate (dry out) over time. Some oils can actually alter the pH and eventually degrade the fiber. Our finishes protect and minimize desiccation, so it’s best to recondition with these rather than other conditioners.