Hair Masks: What are they and how to use them?

What is a hair mask?

Hair Masks work as intense conditioning treatments that are formulated with oils, butters, and other nourishing ingredients. Think of them as a more concentrated version of your regular hair conditioner. The main difference however, is that hair masks are designed to sink into your hair over a longer period of time, rather than be washed out after a few minutes. This means that using a hair mask can have dramatic benefits on hair after only one use. If you have damaged hair, using a mask can help repair its condition after excessive heat styling, or exposure to harsh winters and hot summers - all in the comfort of your own home!

How do you use hair masks?

Hair Masks and treatments are easy to work into your hair care routine, as they can substitute your regular conditioning. Here’s how to use a hair mask:

●   Step 1: Shampoo your hair, then rinse
●   Step 2: Apply your hair mask
●   Step 3: Wait three to five minutes
(Pro tip: Use your extra time in the shower to wash your face, shave your legs or use a body scrub)
●   Step 4: Rinse
●   Step 5: Towel dry and style your refreshed hair as you normally would.

How often should you use a hair mask?

The frequency you decide to use a hair mask depends on the state of your hair and the results you want to achieve. Start by using it once a week, then assess how you feel. If you feel your hair is still dry or damaged, then up the frequency to twice or even three times a week.

How long should a hair mask stay in?

Hair masks work by soaking into your hair for a longer period of time than regular conditioners, so the amount of time you decide to leave it in depends on factors like the condition of your hair and the type of mask.

●   For regular hair, you can leave your hair mask in for at least three to five minutes while under the shower. 

●   If your hair is feeling dry or damaged, letting your mask sink into damp hair for 15-20 minutes before rinsing is also an option. 

●   If you want to use your mask on already dry hair, you may even consider leaving your mask in overnight by wrapping your hair in a towel or shower cap. It’s good to note that dry hair is less porous than wet hair, meaning there is less of a risk of it maxing out on moisture, which is possible if you leave your mask on for too long.

What happens if you leave a hair mask in for too long?

The length of time you leave your hair mask in depends on the type of mask you use.  If you’re using a hair mask on damp hair, stick to a shorter time frame than when applying it to dry hair. 
This is because hair shafts on damp hair are more porous, making them more likely to absorb the mask you’re adding. If you’re not careful, you may run the risk of developing hygral fatigue. Hygral fatigue occurs when hair has stretched and contracted with the addition of moisture, to the point that it becomes weak and prone to breakage. So, leaving a hair mask on for too long on damp hair should be avoided. Remember to follow the instructions on your hair mask package for the best results! 

Why should you use a hair mask?

If you’re looking for an effective way to treat damaged hair, then incorporating a hair mask into your daily routine is an easy way to restore strength, shine, and nourishment. This is particularly so for those who suffer from dry, frizzy, damaged or very long hair.

As well as being a deep conditioning staple for regular hair types, hair masks can also treat a range of specific hair concerns by utilising targeted ingredients. For example, masks formulated for dry hair often use hydrating products like shea butter, coconut oil, argan oil, and avocado oil which help replenish hair and add shine. These botanical oils are also found in great hair masks for curly hair.
Other natural ingredients you may find in hair masks include the likes of  honey and propolis, renowned for their natural healing properties. Ensuring that any hair mask you use is created with all natural ingredients is paramount for the health of your hair long-term. 

An added bonus of hair masks is that they smell great. Garnier hair masks are made with natural ingredients, so pick one you love the smell of, and take some time out of your schedule to not only improve your hair, but also relax and unwind. When it comes to picking the best  hair mask for you, there are several factors to consider like hair type and concern.  Here’s a breakdown so you can find your perfect mask match. 

Garnier's Best Hair Masks for Damaged Hair

If your hair has been damaged from the likes of tools like straighteners or blow dryers, then a hair mask packed with nourishing ingredients designed to fortify and repair strands is key. The Fructis Hair Food Repairing Papaya hair mask works to repair damaged hair and restore it to its former glory. It’s also 98% biodegradable and vegan!  Macadamia nut is also a nutrient rich ingredient, that when used in hair masks can work wonders on damaged hair. Our Smoothing Macadamia Hair Food is formulated with macadamia nut extract, and can work as a hair mask, intense conditioner or leave-in treatment. 

Garnier's Best Hair Masks for Dry Hair

Dry hair needs moisture to replenish itself. The best hair masks for dry hair are those that contain naturally moisture rich ingredients. Try a Garnier hair mask with banana, like the Fructis Hair Food Nourishing Banana which works to deeply hydrate and repair dry, damaged hair. If you’re looking to balance out hair that may be oilier at the roots and dryer on the ends, then the Fructis Hair Food with Aloe Vera could work for you. Designed to hydrate dry hair without the weigh down, you can use it as a hair mask, intense conditioner, or leave in treatment based on your needs.

Garnier's Best Hair Masks for Colour-Treated Hair

Colouring your hair can cause serious damage, and means you will need to give your locks a little extra TLC. Colour treated hair can tend to become dry, with colour fading out over time. The harsher your colour treatment, the more damaged your hair may become - this is especially so when bleaching or lightening. The good news, is that hair masks can help mitigate some of the damage caused at the hairdresser. 

The Fructis Hair Food with Protecting Goji has been specifically designed to tackle colour-treated hair. This 3 in 1 vegan formula will help protect your colour so it lasts longer, as well as hydrate dry, damaged hair in the process. Try it once a week, and amp up depending on results.

There’s no need to live with dry, damaged hair. Explore the Garnier hair mask range and discover hydrated smooth hair you’ll love!