Few hair conditions are more frustrating than that of persistent dry hair. Hair dryness can be caused by many factors including genetics, excessive heat styling, chemical treatments, and environmental changes, among others. When hair is in a dry state, it experiences frequent moisture loss, as the outer cuticle layer of the hair struggles to contain moisture and hydration, leading to annoying things like frizz and flyaways. If one doesn’t contain this hair dryness, it can eventually lead to even worse issues like breakage and hair damage.
Thankfully, there are many options at one’s disposal for treating hair dryness and restoring all that lost moisture and hydration to the hair strand. Aside from a rich conditioner, a leave-in conditioner, and hair oils, perhaps the most powerful weapon in one’s hydration arsenal is a hydrating hair mask. Incorporating a once or twice weekly hair mask can provide an incredible boost to one’s hair health and can be exactly what the doctor ordered when it comes to curbing hair dryness. Read below to learn more about hair masks and learn the best way to use one!
What is a hair mask?
A hair mask is an extremely thick and moisturizing product that contains a mix of rich, nourishing butters and/or oils, along with ingredients like humectants that deeply penetrate the hair strand and allow for enhanced water retention. Many hair masks also contain nourishing ingredients like vitamins, minerals, and herbal extracts that provide additional benefits for hair and scalp health and can help boost hair growth or treat conditions like dandruff. One key difference between a hair mask and a leave-in conditioner is that a hair mask is rinsed away from the hair after being allowed to sit and penetrate the hair strands, allowing the product to truly work its magic without leaving excessive residue on the hair.
How to use a hair mask
If you’re fed up with your hair dryness and have decided to purchase a hair mask, you’ll first need to find one that is right for your hair type. Some hair masks are richer than others, so pick one that is appropriate for your level of hair dryness. After choosing the correct hair mask, you’ll want to first rinse your hair with water and wash with a quality shampoo. Your hair needs to be as clean as possible in order for the mask to most effectively penetrate your hair, so be sure to really work the shampoo into your hair and keep the cuticle squeaky clean.
After rinsing with water, work a generous amount of the hair mask into your hair, starting with the roots and then working the product down to the tips. For best results, consider using a wide tooth comb to work the product throughout the entire hair and evenly distribute the product for best results.
With the product distributed evenly throughout your hair, let it sit for at least 5 minutes for best results. Remember, the longer the product sits in your hair, the more effective it will be. After waiting, rinse the mask from your hair and allow it to dry.
How to Use a Hair Mask
