We all have some extra time on our hands right now so make me proud and give your hair some extra love with a conditioning mask!! No matter how well you care for your hair, damage happens! If your hair is longer than 6 inches, that hair has been on your head for over a year and older hair needs more moisture especially if you are lightening those ends when you come in for highlights or use hot tools.
What causes damage? With my clientele I see mostly heat styling damage. The flat iron is number one. How can I tell? When even the newest of hairs only a few inches long have a little split end on them- that’s from a heat styling tool. Environmental factors such as sun damage or dryness in the weather, hair color and stress can also be damaging. Hair masks are my favorite was to improve damage.
Use a moisturizing or repairing mask on a regular basis to really penetrate dry, damaged hair and begin long term treatment to processed hair. Even if your hair is perfectly healthy and Virgin- a hair mask will just add that extra moisture and luster it may need! I use a hair mask every time I shampoo (every 3-4 days) because my hair is naturally dry and I am not concerned about my hair feeling heavy or weighed down. Masks are just a more intense conditioner but keep in mind about this VERY IMPORTANT STEP you might be skipping: before applying your hair mask, squeeze as much excess water out as you can or even towel blot of a towel is available. That way water isn’t filling up the tiny holes in your hair and the mask is able to do it job.
Here are some of my faves for every budget!
Overall favorite hydrating mask:
Fanola NutriCare Reconstructing Mask $18
Not only does this mask smell amazing it leaves your hair really soft and hydrated. I’ve had really great feedback every time I recommend this mask! It does have a sweet smell to it almost like the smell of cake batter or butter scotch. I think it’s a great price point for the amount of product you get! Make sure you purchase from the retailer “Salon Guys” on their website or amazon to insure authenticity.
Favorite Repairing Mask Splurge:
Kerastase Masque Force Architecte Hair Mask $56
This is amazing for highlighted hair. It really is transformative and my clients with the healthiest of hair generally are using Kerastase shampoo’s and masks because they are really worth the steep price point!!
Oribe Gold Lust Hair Mask $66
This mask is sooo indulgent! Oribe’s brand has their own bio restorative complex that helps repair and it’s free of parabens! It works well but maybe not the best choice if you have tons of hair because the bottle is only 5 ounces.
Favorite Moisture Mask budget friendly:
Maria Nila True Soft Masque $31
This mask is very concentrated and I do feel like my hair is a lot softer after!
Favorite overnight mask:
Bumble & bumble’s While You Sleep Repair Mask $49
This mask not only smells amazing but it’s very detangling and hydrating. You can leave it in overnight or just leave it in a few mins after shampooing. Free of parabens and phthalates
Favorite defrizzing mask:
Goldwell Just Smooth 60 second treatment $19 small $35 large
It’s crazy how this mask isn’t more popular. It works SOOO well and really does cut frizz and blow dry time. I have a hard time finding it so I order the large size on amazon.
Favorite leave in- rinse out oil treatment:
Darshana Indian Hair Oil $18
I’ve been using this oil in my hair once every two weeks and it’s been leaving my hair feeling soft and shiny! It’s pretty thick so it’s best to apply some and then shampoo it out after it’s sat on for at least 30 mins. Free of mineral oil, parabens, and silicon. Found on amazon
Favorite mask for shine:
Kerastase Masque Chromatique Hair Mask $56.
I love the pink line from Kerastase because it leaves hair exceptionally shiny! This also helps prolong color.
Favorite Mask from Target:
Shea Moisture Deep Treatment Mask $13.99
I picked up a travel size version of this to try while I was on vacation and LOVED it! It was hydrating, detangling and such a great find from Target!
Hope this helps with giving your hair that extra lovin!!