5 Dos and Don'ts for Using A Hair Mask
Hair masks boast a ton of benefits for the hair, but you won’t reap them if you misuse yours. If you want to get the most out of your hair mask, you’ve got to use it correctly. Unfortunately, there are many opportunities for things to go wrong. But we can help; in this article, we’ll share 5 dos and don’ts for using a hair mask. Let’s get right into it!
Do wash your hair first.
Failing to wash your hair before using a hair mask can result in a less-than-effective conditioning session. In order for the mask to penetrate your strands, your hair needs to be deeply cleansed of any product buildup, debris, and excess sebum.
Do choose the right hair mask.
Some hair masks are targeted for hair dryness while others reduce dandruff symptoms or strengthen hair. Choose your hair mask based on the specific hair issue(s) you’re looking to correct.
Do be generous with your hair mask.
When applying the hair mask to your hair, ensure that you get the product on every single strand. Any hair that you miss won’t receive the benefits of the hair mask. Comb through your hair with a wide tooth comb after applying the hair mask to aid in distribution.
Do apply hair masks to damp hair.
When you dampen your hair, its cuticles raise up a bit. If you apply your hair mask while your hair is damp and the cuticles are raised, your hair will absorb as much of the hair mask’s goodness as possible. In addition to that, it’s easier to apply your hair mask to damp hair than to dry hair. You’ll use less product too!
Do add hair masks to your regular hair regimen.
Doing a single hair mask treatment is unlikely to change the overall trajectory of your hair journey. For the best results, use your hair mask on a scheduled basis - once a week, twice a week, twice a month, etc. Make it a part of your hair regimen.
Don’t ignore the label instructions.
Just because your favorite hair guru left her hair mask in for an entire day doesn’t mean that you should. Read the hair mask label to find out how long you should leave the product on. Also be on the lookout for usage instructions - the manufacturer wrote them, and no one knows the product better than its creator.
Don’t use expired hair masks.
Throw your 5-year-old hair mask straight into the trash. Hair masks aren’t formulated to last forever. Expired hair masks can have negative effects on your hair and scalp, so they’re not worth the risk. Once the mask expires, replace it with another.
Don’t be afraid to try multiple hair masks.
If you find that your current hair mask just doesn’t cut it, Replace it with another. The only way to know whether a hair mask will work for you is to give it a try. So, try several over time and add the best one to your hair product stash.
Don’t Use your hair mask every day.
Hair masks are heavy-duty treatments that are not formulated to be used every day. If you use your hair mask too often, you could suffer a myriad of hair issues that threaten to ruin your hair entirely. Over-moisturization and protein overload are just a few problems you could come across. A good treatment frequency for hair masks is once or twice a week; adjust the frequency based on how your hair feels, looks, and behaves.
Don’t apply it haphazardly.
There’s an art to applying hair masks. If you have voluminous hair and don't normally deal with flat roots, you can apply the hair mask all over. But if you struggle with root volume or oiliness, don't apply the hair mask to your roots - apply it only to the midlengths and ends.
So, there you have it - 5 dos and don'ts for using hair masks. We hope that you found all the information you were looking for and we wish you the best with your hair.
Author: Andrea Reyes
Andrea is a mother, wife, writer, and natural hair enthusiast of 15 years. Currently on her natural hair journey, she’s been trying countless products and techniques to understand and embrace her natural hair. She is the creator of NaturallyTextured.com, a new website featuring informative articles that share tips, tricks, and techniques aimed to help others learn to love their hair through proper hair care. She writes with the hope of making hair care easier to understand and implement.