The Ultimate Guide to Hair Masks: When and How to Use Them
What is a hair mask (hair masque)?
Perhaps you've been hearing your family and friends rave about a hair mask they've been using lately and it got you curious. While you may not think about hair masks often - did you know a hair mask is a fantastic way to dramatically improve the condition of your hair? Especially if you don't intend on trimming it short.
Just like applying a face mask which I'm sure you've done before, a hair mask is an intense conditioning treatment that helps to nourish your damaged hair, whether it's from frequent hair colouring, regular use of hot styling tools such as straighteners or curlers, hair naturally ageing, damage from the elements, after swimming and mixing your hair with chlorine/salt water, or other hair treatments such as keratin treatments. Does your hair fall under any of these categories? If it does, then your locks will need a hair mask to revive!
Unlike conditioners, which are designed to last only until the next wash, a good hair mask is often packed with nutrient-rich, hydrating ingredients in heavier concentrations such as oils and butters to really help nourish your damaged hair. A hair mask is essentially your conditioner but more concentrated and with better long term results.
In this article, we will discuss when and how to use hair masks. We'll also provide a few tips on how to get the most out of your hair mask treatment. So whether your hair is dry, damaged, or just in need of some TLC, read on for the best ways to use hair masks!
When to Use a Hair Mask
Once you've established that your hair needs a hair mask, it is best to use the hair mask regularly to ensure your damaged hair is getting the maximum nutrients and antioxidants it needs for healthier hair. Depending on the condition of your hair, we recommend using a hair mask once to twice a week.
You can apply the hair mask after shampoo and conditioner (if it's really damaged) or you can skip the conditioner and go straight to the hair mask.
How To Use a Hair Mask
Hair masks are very accomodating to different hair conditions and type - depending on how damaged your hair is, you may only need to leave the mask in your hair for 5 minutes or you can leave the mask overnight, wrapped in a towel for the ultimate hydration experience. You can use a hair mask on damp or dry hair.
On damp hair:
After shampooing your hair as normal, apply a generous amount of hair mask on damp hair and leave for 5 to 10 minutes. Best to use a gentle wide-tooth comb to spread the mask around the hair shafts evenly. This will also help with tangles and also help prevent breakage as your hair is prone to breaking when wet. Thoroughly rinse with lukewarm water. Use 1 to 2 times a week for best results.
If you have some time throughout your day to leave the hair mask in longer then you can either clip your hair with a claw clip or use a gentle towel to lock the moisture in as you go about your daily routine. Thoroughly rinse with lukewarm water after a couple of hours or you can even leave it in your hair overnight (wrapped in a towel) and wash off in the morning for maximum results.
On dry hair:
Apply a general amount of hair mask onto dry hair evenly. Clip your hair up with a large claw clip or wrap it in a towel/hair turban and either leave the mask for a few hours or overnight. Thoroughly rinse with lukewarm water. For best results use 1 to 2 times a week.
