It seems there’s a product for every hair concern. From clarifying shampoos and leave-in conditioners to heat protectant and hair masks, it can be overwhelming deciding which is best for you. If you have frizzy hair, dry hair, or curly hair, a hair mask is going to be your BFF.
But what is a hair mask, exactly? It’s an intensely moisturizing and reparative hair product you can apply in the shower in place of conditioner. Hair masks often include ingredients like coconut oil, avocado oil, jojoba oil, shea butter, argan oil, and more to give some serious deep conditioning to your strands.
To get the full low-down on everything you need to know about what a hair mask is, including the difference between conditioner and a mask (do we really need both?) and how often you should use a hair mask, we chatted with Jess Elbaum, a celebrity hairstylist based in New York City. Ahead, all your questions about hair masks, answered—plus, product recommendations for the best hair masks we’ve tested.
The best hair masks, at a glance
- Best Overall: K18 Leave-In Molecular Repair Hair Mask, $75
- Best for Breakage: Amika Soulfood Nourishing Hair Mask, $34
- Best for Frizzy Hair: Eva NYC Therapy Session Hair Mask, $18
- Best Drugstore: Hask Tea Tree Oil Hair & Scalp Treatment Mask, $15
What is a hair mask, and how do you use it?
A hair mask is a deeply conditioning treatment. Hair masks help repair damaged hair, subdue frizz, and deliver shine and intense moisture when it needs some extra love. Wondering if you rinse out a hair mask after use? Yes, usually, but “if your hair is very dry, you can sleep in it overnight,” says Elbaum.
Hair masks have a thicker texture, similar to a lotion, so if you don’t like the feeling of a mask in your hair and on your pillow all night long, you can also consider using a hair oil, which will feel a little more lightweight. But most people can just apply a hair mask on damp hair in the shower and leave it on for 5 to 10 minutes, says Elbaum. When you brush your hair post-shower, your hair should be easier to detangle, shinier, and more hydrated.
As for how much product to use? This will depend on how long or short your hair is, says Elbaum. You want it to be evenly distributed throughout your hair strands, so add more as needed. You can either cover your hair in it, running your fingers throughout, or, using a wide-toothed comb, gently comb it through your strands.
What is the difference between hair conditioner and a hair mask?
Wondering why you need a hair mask if you’re already using conditioner? Here’s the difference: “A conditioner is something you use every time you after shampoo and shouldn’t be skipped,” says Elbaum. “A mask can also be used as a conditioner, but typically it is more hydrating and is used in place of a conditioner a few times a week.”
Essentially, you can think of your hair mask as a souped-up version of conditioner to be tapped when you need that extra dose of moisture. But, you may be asking, what about leave-in conditioner? Is leave-in conditioner the same as a hair mask? This product is different from both a regular conditioner and a hair mask. While your standard conditioner is a rinse-out formula and a hair mask is a more moisturizing version of conditioner that you also rinse out, a leave-in conditioner is going to be a conditioning treatment that you apply to wet hair post-shower (or dry hair in between washes). While it does hydrate and help repair hair, it also often has other properties, too, such as heat protection, that these in-shower rinse-out formulas don’t. People often comb through or spritz (leave-in conditioners can also be sprays) leave-ins prior to heat styling their hair since so many of them double as a heat protectant.
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How often should you use a hair mask?
This will all come down to your hair’s dryness and texture. “Everyone can benefit from using a mask once in awhile,” says Elbaum. “I often use a mask a few times a week, but you can use one more often if your hair type calls for it.” Others use a hair mask just once a week or when their hair feels dry, frizzy, or brittle.
On the flip side, “If you have dry or textured hair, I recommend using one a few times a week or even every time you shampoo,” says Elbaum. Color-treated hair also seriously benefits from the nourishment of a hair mask, as things like bleach and hair color (whether you go into a salon or use DIY box kits) can cause damage.
The bottom line? Depending on your hair concerns, you’ll know what your hair needs based on how it feels and looks, and don’t worry about overusing a hair mask. “It’s okay if you want to leave a mask on for a long time,” Elbaum says. “It truly depends on your hair type and texture.”
Can I use a hair mask instead of conditioner?
Yes, absolutely. Skip the conditioner if you’re using a hair mask. “On the days I use a mask in the shower, I don’t recommend doubling up with a conditioner,” says Elbaum. “It’s not needed.” If you have breakage along your hair shaft and want to boost your hair’s health, implementing a hair mask will be a great addition to your hair care routine.
However, take note: Super-fine hair types should “be careful with masks so you don’t weigh down your style,” says Elbaum. To combat any heaviness on thin hair, concentrate your mask application on the mid-lengths to ends instead of throughout your hair starting from the root, she says: “You can always just avoid the top and apply to the ends only for extra hydration on split ends.”
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Catharine Malzahn is the contributing associate beauty editor at Glamour.
