How To Use Hair Masks: The Secret To Luscious Locks
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You might have learned all the tips and tricks for growing your hair long and strong!
Raiding the kitchen cupboard to make the popular apple cider rinse or rice water has kept us hooked for a while, but hair masks are a game changer, as this is a product that you can actually sleep in, essentially giving you an intense conditioning treatment overnight.
Whether you have damaged hair from heat styling, colour treatments, or environmental factors, there is a hair mask out there that will work wonders for you.
Here’s how to use hair masks to revive and restore your hair to its former glory.
First, What Are Hair Masks?
Hair masks are a secret weapon in the world of hair care.
Packed with nourishing ingredients like oils, vitamins, and proteins, they deeply penetrate the hair shaft, providing intense hydration and repair.
Not only do they improve the overall condition of your hair, but they also add shine, reduce frizz, and enhance manageability.
Hair masks come in various forms, including creams, gels, and oils.
They are designed to be applied to clean, damp hair and left on for a specific amount of time to allow the ingredients to work their magic.
These masks are typically enriched with ingredients that target specific hair concerns, such as dryness, damage, or lack of volume.
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Using hair masks regularly can have numerous benefits for your hair.
Firstly, they provide deep conditioning and hydration, which is especially beneficial for dry and damaged hair.
The nourishing ingredients in hair masks help to repair and strengthen the hair shaft, reducing breakage and split ends.
Hair masks help to add shine and improve the overall appearance of your hair. The moisturising properties of the masks smooth down the hair cuticles, resulting in smoother, more manageable hair.
Hair masks can also help to reduce frizz and flyaways, making your hair look more polished and put-together.
Lastly, using hair masks can help to protect your hair from future damage. By providing a barrier against environmental factors, heat styling, and chemical treatments, hair masks act as a shield for your hair, preventing it from becoming further damaged.
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Choosing the right hair mask for your hair type is essential to ensure that you get the maximum benefits.
Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:
Identify your hair concerns: Take a moment to assess your hair and identify the specific concerns you want to address. Is your hair dry and lacking moisture? Do you have split ends and breakage? Understanding your hair's needs will help you choose a hair mask that targets those concerns.
Read the labels: When shopping for a hair mask, always read the labels and look for masks that are specifically formulated for your hair type. Look for key ingredients that will address your concerns, such as hydrating oils for dry hair or proteins for damaged hair.
Consider your hair texture: If you have fine hair, opt for lightweight formulas that won't weigh your hair down. For thick or coarse hair, richer and more nourishing masks will provide the best results.
Seek recommendations: If you're unsure which hair mask to choose, don't hesitate to seek recommendations from friends, hairstylists, or online reviews. Hearing from others who have similar hair concerns can help guide you in the right direction.
Remember, everyone's hair is unique, so it may take some trial and error to find the perfect hair mask for you.
Different Types Of Hair Masks
There are various types of hair masks available on the market, each catering to different hair types and concerns.
It's important to choose a hair mask that is specifically formulated for your hair's needs to achieve the best results.
Hydrating hair masks
These masks are perfect for dry, dehydrated hair.
They are enriched with moisturising ingredients such as oils and butters, which penetrate the hair shaft, replenishing moisture and restoring the hair's natural hydration levels.
HYDRATING HAIR MASKS
Olaplex No.8 Bond Intense Moisture Mask | NET-A-PORTER, £28
Drunk Elephant Silkamino Mask | Cult Beauty, £27
Repairing hair masks
If your hair is damaged from heat styling, chemical treatments, or environmental factors, repairing hair masks are your best bet.
These masks are formulated with ingredients like keratin and amino acids, which help to repair the hair's protein structure and strengthen it from within.
REPAIRING HAIR MASKS
K18 Leave-In Molecular Repair Hair Mask | Space NK, £70
Shea Moisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthening Treatment Masque | Sephora, £10.99
Colour-protecting hair masks
If you have coloured or chemically treated hair, it's important to use a hair mask that is specifically formulated to protect and preserve your colour.
These masks contain ingredients that lock in the colour and prevent it from fading, while also providing nourishment and hydration.
COLOUR-PROTECTING HAIR MASKS
Gisou Honey Infused Hair Mask | Sephora, £19
Redken Colour Extend Magnetics Mask | Look Fantastic, £26.78
Volumising hair masks
For those with fine or limp hair, volumising hair masks can work wonders.
These masks are infused with ingredients that add body and lift to the hair, giving it a fuller, more voluminous appearance.
VOLUMISING HAIR MASKS
Cleansing Volumising Paste with Rose Extracts | Christopher Robin, £30
Grow Gorgeous Thickening Hair & Scalp Mask | Look Fantastic, £17.50
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Now that you've chosen the right hair mask for your hair type, and know exactly what type of mask your hair needs, it's time to learn how to apply it properly.
Follow these steps for optimal results:
Start with clean, damp hair: Before applying the hair mask, ensure that your hair is clean and damp. Shampoo your hair as usual, and gently towel dry it to remove excess water.
Section your hair: If you have long or thick hair, it's helpful to section it off into smaller sections to ensure even application of the hair mask. Use hair clips or ties to separate your hair into manageable sections.
Apply the hair mask: Take a generous amount of the hair mask and distribute it evenly throughout your hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends, which are usually the most damaged parts. Avoid applying the mask directly to your scalp, as it can weigh down your hair.
Massage it in: Once you've applied the hair mask, gently massage it into your hair, ensuring that every strand is coated. This will help the mask penetrate the hair shaft and enhance its effectiveness.
Leave it on: Check the instructions on the hair mask packaging to determine the recommended time for leaving it on. Most hair masks require anywhere from 5 to 30 minutes of processing time but you could leave it on overnight.
Rinse thoroughly: Rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water until all traces of the hair mask are gone. Avoid using hot water, as it can strip away the moisture and undo the benefits of the mask.
Condition it: Evenly distribute the conditioner throughout your hair, making sure to avoid the scalp. Gently comb the conditioner through your hair with a wide-tooth comb to ensure even distribution and to detangle any knots or tangles. Leave the conditioner on your hair for the recommended time and rinse your hair thoroughly.
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To get the most out of your hair masks, consider incorporating these expert tips into your routine:
Use a shower cap: After applying the hair mask, cover your hair with a shower cap or wrap it in a warm towel. The heat will help to open up the hair cuticles and allow the mask to penetrate deeper, resulting in better absorption of the nourishing ingredients.
Extend the processing time: If your hair is particularly dry or damaged, consider leaving the hair mask on for longer than the recommended time. You can even leave it on overnight for an intensive treatment. Just remember to protect your pillow with a towel or old T-shirt.
Use a wide-tooth comb: When rinsing out the hair mask, use a wide-tooth comb to detangle your hair. This will help distribute the mask evenly and prevent any tangles or knots.
Don't overdo it: While hair masks are beneficial, it's important not to overuse them. Using a hair mask once a week or every two weeks is generally sufficient but this can differ depending on your hair type and what type of hair mask you are using.
Protect your hair: After using a hair mask, it's essential to protect your hair from further damage. Use heat protectant sprays before styling with heat tools, avoid excessive sun exposure, and be gentle when brushing or styling your hair.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hair Masks
How often should I use a hair mask?
It's recommended to use a hair mask once a week or every two weeks, depending on your hair's needs. Overusing hair masks can lead to product buildup and weigh down your hair.
Can I use a hair mask on my scalp?
Hair masks are primarily designed for the mid-lengths and ends of your hair, not the scalp. Applying a hair mask directly to your scalp can lead to greasiness and product buildup.
Can I use a hair mask on coloured hair?
Yes, there are hair masks like the Redken Colour Extend Magnetic Mask or GISOU’s Honey Infused Hair Mask that are specifically formulated for coloured or chemically treated hair. These masks can help to protect and preserve your colour while providing nourishment and hydration.
Can I use a hair mask on fine hair?
Yes, hair masks such as OUAI Fine-Medium Hair Treatment Masque are lightweight and won't weigh down fine hair.
Remember, if you have any specific concerns or questions about using hair masks, it's always best to consult with a professional hairstylist.
Do you use a hair mask before or after shampooing and conditioning?
You should always use a hair mask on clean hair, so always shampoo first, but only condition after you’ve used the hair mask. According to Gisou, “a hair mask provides a concentrated dose of nourishment and repair, while a conditioner offers regular hydration and manageability. By using the hair mask first, you give your locks that extra TLC they crave before sealing in the goodness with a conditioner.”
