Tips and Tricks to Apply a Hair Mask Properly

If there’s one hair care product that can make us believe magic is real, it’s a hair mask. A hair mask can transform our hair from dull and dry, to soft, and glossy. But applying a hair mask may not be as simple as one would think. If you use too much product, your hair can end up looking greasy. If you put too little, your results will be less than impressive. In this article, we’re sharing with you tips and tricks on how to apply a hair mask evenly and effectively.

Find the Right Mask for Your Hair

Finding a hair mask suitable for your hair type and condition is crucial to having gorgeous and hydrated hair. Masks for dry hair contain shea butter, argan or coconut oil. Hair masks for damaged and colored hair usually contain honey. Hair masks for curly hair are packed with oils that won’t weigh the hair down but will still nourish.

When to Apply Your Mask

Wash your hair with shampoo and rinse with lukewarm water. The optimal time to apply a hair mask is after shampooing because the cuticle is opened up which means hair will absorb nutrients from the mask. After you rinse the mask from your hair apply conditioner and rinse and style as usual.

Towel-dry Your Hair

One of the most common mistakes when applying a hair mask is applying it over hair that is too wet. Gently towel dry your hair after you rinse the shampoo, prior to applying a mask. If your hair is too wet the product will be diluted and less effective. 

Apply the Correct Amount

You might think that applying more product will lead to better results, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, this way you would only be throwing the product away because your hair cannot absorb it all. For short hair, ½ Tbsp of product should be enough. For medium and long hair apply 1-1 ½ Tbsp.

The best way to apply a hair mask is to divide your hair into sections and apply the product evenly from the midshaft of your hair to the ends (no need to put a mask over the roots of your hair). A wide tooth comb can help you distribute the product evenly.

Create Some Heat

Once you’ve applied your mask, leave it on for about 20 minutes. For best results, use a shower cap, or a towel to wrap your hair. This will trap the heat of your scalp. The heat helps the product reach deeper into the hair. As a result, the mask provides deep hydration and vitality to the hair. If you’re in a rush, you can leave a hair mask on for 2-5 minutes; it will still invigorate your hair. Also, some people will let a mask soak into their hair overnight. You can try that as well, as long as it’s not a protein-based mask, but we do not recommend it for fine hair.

Apply Hair Masks Often

Luckily, when it comes to hair masks and deep conditioners we can treat our hair pretty often. If your hair is healthy, apply a mask once a week. For dry and colored hair, apply a mask two times a week. And if you have curly hair, you can apply one after every shampoo.

Final Thoughts

Regular application of a hair mask will improve your hair texture, making it stronger and more beautiful. Once you buy the best hair mask for your hair type, follow these tips to get the best results. Other than that, be kind to your hair and protect it with a heat protectant spray when blow-drying, curling or ironing. As always remember to visit your stylist regularly to avoid split ends and keep your hair healthy and strong.