How to get the most out of your hair mask

Summer can take a serious toll on your hair. From swimming to simply staying out in the sun, your hair can really start to feel the heat. That’s why summer is the perfect time to try a luxurious and deeply nourishing hair mask. But don’t worry if you’re a hair mask newbie, this article goes over all the basics, so you can keep your thirsty hair looking soft, shiny, and smooth this summer. 

Although it may go without saying, there’s more to hair masks than simply dumping a lot of product in your hair and waiting for results. In fact, you can customise almost any hair mask depending on your unique hair needs. How long you leave the hair mask in, or simply when or how often you use it, can vary the hair treatment's effectiveness. Before I move on to all the tips and tricks, let's go over the golden rule of all beauty products: start with a clean palette. Even the most nourishing hair masks can’t penetrate dirty hair, so make sure you get the most out of your product by starting fresh. 

Hair mask at night

Many hair mask enthusiasts, swear by sleeping in their masks. This ensures that the hair mask infiltrates deep into the hair follicle, leaving your locks oh-so-silky-smooth. Granted, you’ll need a good shower cap, and maybe the sleeping prowess of a hibernating bear, but then again who says beauty isn’t pain? If you’re up for a nighttime hair treatment, try a hair mask with an especially thick consistency such as Schwarzkopf’s Color Freeze.

Hair mask on dry hair

I know it may seem counterintuitive, but yes it is true, you can apply a hair mask to dry hair. BUT (and this is a big but), make sure that your hair is relatively clean. Dirt, oil, and leftover product buildup can significantly interfere with the effectiveness of a hair mask, so starting with a clean slate is a must. You also have to be willing to wait more for the hair treatment to set, since dry hair is not as lubricated as wet or towel dried hair. I recommend 20+ minutes, just to be safe. The jury’s still out on the benefits of applying a hair mask to dry hair, but I say if it works for your hair—go for it! And if you do, make sure to try out a lightweight mask such as John Masters Organics Shine On.

How to apply your hair mask?

Most hair stylists recommend that you distribute your hair mask evenly on damp hair using a wide-tooth comb, or your fingers. You should concentrate on the ends of your hair, since that’s the part which is most exposed to damage. Take time to massage the product into your hair before leaving it to sit. A little extra care, here and there, can make all the difference. Orofulido’s Beauty Hair Mask is particularly easy to apply and is a great pick for a first time hair treatment. 

Double up: use your hair mask as an conditioner! 

I personally double my hair mask as a conditioner during those times where my hair needs some extra TLC. In fact, I’m currently using L’Oreal’s Mythic Oil Masque and loving the results. However, I have to emphasise that it is especially important to remember to rinse your hair thoroughly after using a mask in lieu of a conditioner. Hair masks are intensely nourishing, so there’s bound to be a bit of product buildup. To ensure that your hair is left voluminous and clean, do yourself a favour, and rinse and repeat. 

How often should you use a hair mask?

Most hair masks specify this standard ritual: leave in for 3-5 minutes, rinse, and repeat every week or so. But why should someone with flat, thin hair follow the same routine as someone with thick, wavy hair? In beauty and haircare, there’s no size fits all, so in order to achieve the best looking hair possible, you’ll have to go through some trial and error. 

Now that you know the tricks of the hair mask trade, you’re ready to customise any mask. So whether you choose a bestselling mask such as Macadamia’s Deep Repair Masque or an award winner like Aussie’s Miracle Deep Treatment, you know that you can’t go wrong. Shop Luxplus’ cheap hair care selection today and banish dry hair tomorrow.