It’s time for hair masking 101.
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Face masks have infiltrated our daily lives.
How many times have you seen people wearing face masks in movies and TV shows?
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The answer is too many to count.
More proof: Seeing someone on a plane sporting a sheet mask no longer turns heads.
For some reason,hair maskshavent caught on in the same waybut they should.
But even with that extra maintenance moment, hair masks are well worth the effort.
Ahead, they break down how, when, and why to use them.
Get ready for your loveliest locks yet.
Meet the Experts
What Is a Hair Mask?
Let’s back up and cover the hair mask basics, starting with exactly what a hair mask is.
Who Should Use Hair Masks?
Anyone who hasor is prone tohair damageshould use a hair mask, according to Onuoha.
That criteria covers loads of people.
Luckily, hair masks are suitable for everyone and all hair types.
“These things weaken strands and negatively impact their moisture balance and strength.”
“They’re also essential if you heat style your hair.”
“Ask yourself:What does it look like?
How does it feel?
What is my weekly grooming routine?”
Once you’ve narrowed your hair concerns, shop for a mask that targets your specific needs.
“Look for a focused and concentrated mask,” Kingsley says.
“Pre-shampoo treatments are also helpful, especially if you havefine or thin hair.”
If you have multiple hair concerns, alternate between different masks to address your needs.
If you’re looking for new masks to test, she has a few recommendations.
For dry, brittle hair, she suggests the Philip Kinglsey Elasticizer Deep-Conditioning Treatment.
Those with heat or chemical damage are ideal users for the brand’s Bond Builder Restructuring Treatment.
“Heavy moisturizing actives stop bond-building actives from penetrating effectively,” she warns.
How Do You Use a Hair Mask?
The best way to use a hair mask varies.
Some require just five minutes, while others need to sink in overnight.
But Onuoha says that they’re only part of the equation for maintaining healthy hair.
She believes using conditioner every time you shampoo, and a leave-in is even more beneficial.
Need a refresh on the differences between them?
“Hair masks are treatments to focus on certain ‘problems’ or to prevent them,” Onuoha says.
“Conditioners coat the hair, help smooth the hair surface, and protect against damage from grooming habits.
Ultimately, Onuoha recommends sticking to a simple routine.
