We all dream of having the kind of hair that stops people in their tracks, but how to actually get it is often a bit of a mystery. The key to more beautiful hair, you may ask? Hair masks.
Those concentrated formulas feel so good on parched strands, helping hair get back to a shiny, happy, healthy state. But when it comes to finding the best hair mask, how do you know which hair mask is ideal for your hair type? Keep reading.
Understanding Different Hair Types
Before we launch into the best hair masks, we have to talk about hair types. Because there are different types of hair, and – surprise! – different hair types require different things in order to maintain a sleek, strong, long look. So, without further ado, here’s the 411 on your hair and what it needs.
Curly Hair
Curly hair can be dry and frizzy and needs hydration. Curly hair needs hair masks filled with moisture-loving ingredients, like shea butter, coconut oil, and more, to help nourish curls, pen them, and tame frizz.
Straight Hair
The needs of your hair mask are based on whether your straight hair tends to be oily or dry. If your straight hair tends to be oilier, choose a very simple, all-natural hair mask that helps to clarify the hair, like a clay or charcoal-based mask. If your hair is dry and/or super damaged, look for an intensely hydrating hair mask filled with ingredients like argan oil.
Fine hair
Fine hair can be flat and feel dead to the touch. To combat this, choose a mask that isn’t going to weigh the hair down. Choose biotin and keratin as the key ingredients.
Thick Hair
Thick hair typically requires some heavy-duty moisture and nourishment. A mask with lots of oils or a creamy consistency, like avocado, oil, honey, etc., will provide the deep conditioning, softening, and smoothing nature that all thick hair requires.
Choosing Ingredients Wisely
The ingredients matter a lot in hair masks. You should stock up on masks that have a higher concentration of proteins, such as keratin and silk amino acids if you have damaged hair. This will help rebuild your hair structure and give it strength. It’s less likely to break and have split ends. If you are struggling with frizz and flyaways, go for masks with nourishing agents like coconut oil and glycerin. It will give you a lot of slip, and your hair will be shiny and manageable once it’s dried.
You don’t have to own a lot of oils; just a few would be good inclusions for your regimen. Jojoba, almond, and olive oil are some of our favorite picks, as they are very nourishing and moisturizing. Plus, they make your hair manageable if used consistently, so you will see a big difference in terms of the softness of your hair.
Application Tips
Even the most magnificent hair mask in the world won’t make a difference if you’re using it wrong. After shampooing with your favorite gentle product, work your mask through the mid-lengths and ends of your damp hair (this is where your hair is the most dry).
Not sure you’ve used enough? Typically, a two-finger scoop worth of product will work — but if your hair isn’t especially thick or long, start with less. Avoid your roots since having too much product at the top can cause your hair to look lifeless and greasy.
Frequency and Maintenance
How frequently you use a hair mask depends on your hair type. And, in general, how dry or damaged your hair is. If your hair is on the drier or more damaged side, it will benefit from the mask more regularly. Dry or damaged hair can help with health and longevity. Using a mask once a week will ensure that your hair gets a continual moisture hit.
As for hair that’s in pretty good shape but could use an extra boost every now and then, a mask once a month is usually all it needs, but remember — if your hair needs more help than usual (such as after a summer in the sun or after a bout with the hair straightener), feel free to mix the masks up and use them as your hair needs.
Hair masks are definitely an effective part of an overall hair care plan. In addition to your hair mask, consider also getting regular trims, eating a balanced diet, and using a heat protection spray.
Discovering the Perfect Mask
You can make a hair mask your best friend if you have dull, lifeless hair and wish to gain healthy, shiny voluminous hair. Knowing your hair type and using the right ingredients and method of application can always help you achieve amazing hair transformation. With its deeply nourishing formula, a high-quality hair mask has the power to revitalize and rejuvenate even the most severely damaged hair.
