The hair mask, an essential in your kit!

Whether it's moisturizing, restorative, or meant to add shine, a hair mask is an essential part of in your hair care routine. Here are some answers to the questions we frequently receive on this subject.

How often should I use it?

How often you should use a hair mask depends on your hair type and how often you wash your hair. If you wash your hair every 5 to 7 days, you can replace your conditioner with a mask every time you wash, whereas if you wash your hair 2 to 3 times a week, we recommend using your mask about once a week.

How long should I leave it in my hair?

It’s important to follow the specific instructions for each mask. Some work quickly (in 2 minutes or less),but in general, they work in 5 to 10 minutes. Leaving your mask on longer than directed will not moisturize or repair your hair. Sometimes too much is like not enough! Leaving your mask on longer can damage the look of your hair, especially when it's a repairing mask. An overdose of protein can leave your hair looking dull and with less volume.

You can also try the hydrating mask twist on dry or semi-damp hair. Personally, I often do this before going for a run in the morning! Simply apply your moisturizing mask from mid-length to ends, directly to dry OR slightly damp hair.

We also recommend adding a few pumps of oil to your moisturizing mask to make it easier to apply. We love Matrix's Food for Soft Oil ! It's very moisturizing and perfect for applying to dry hair. If you prefer luxurious products, we're huge fans of Kérastase's Elixir Ultime oil! It gives hair a beautiful shine and, as a bonus, adds an extra dose of hydration!

You can leave the mask on for a few hours without any problem. Some even apply it in the evening, before going to bed.  Then carry out your usual shower routine. Please note that this tip only applies to moisturizing masks. Repairing masks should NEVER be applied to dry hair. 

 

How should I apply it?

The amount of mask to apply can vary depending on the thickness and length of your hair. The “norm” is about the size of a quarter. You can use more or less, but we recommend no more than the size of a $2. Professional products are concentrated, so a little goes a long way!

Masks should not be applied at the roots, but rather from mid-length to the tips. You can use a wide-toothed comb to detangle your hair in the shower and to distribute the product more evenly. In addition, it's best to wring out your hair before applying the treatment to improve contact with your hair and prevent the product from being too diluted. Finally, leave on for the time indicated on the packaging, then rinse thoroughly.

What type of mask should I get?

There are many types of hair masks on the market, including repairing, moisturizing, hybrid, smoothing and shine masks. So it can be difficult to know which one to choose. However, it's perfectly possible to combine different masks in your routine. For example, in the same week, you can apply a moisturizing mask to dry hair and a repairing mask to damp hair. Here's how to distinguish between the different types of mask available on the market.

Repairer/Rebuilder : It is designed for chemically and mechanically damaged hair. We can think of those with blond hair, bleached hair and/or those who use heated tools on a daily basis.

Molecular Repair: It's designed for hair that's been badly damaged. This includes hair damaged by chemical treatments, bleaching, coloring and heat. This type of mask repairs the hair's inner fiber, and most of the time, it's leave-in!  

Moisturizing/Nourishing: It's specially formulated for dry hair, but is suitable for all hair types, summer and winter alike! Indeed, most hair needs moisturizing during the cold winter months, but also when exposed to the sun or soaked in chlorinated water in summer.

Shine: It is designed more for those with color-treated hair. It makes hair more radiant and shiny. 

Hybrid: Can't decide between a moisturizing mask and a repairing mask? Do you need a little of both, but don't have any severe problems? This versatile mask is for you! We affectionately call it the “mask for the indecisive”! 

 

Our favorites!

 

Repairing mask

The hair repair mask from Sachajuan is our discovery of the year 2024! It deeply repairs and strengthens hair, leaving it frizz-free. It's a mask made with natural ingredients and Ocean Silk technology. It's our favorite option at under $50! 

The Ultimate Reset mask from Shu Uemura has been our favorite for years! It is unbeatable. A small amount is all you need for a wow effect from the very first use. It leaves hair soft and smooth. The only problem with this mask is that it's expensive! 

 

 

Molecular Repair Mask

The K18 mask penetrates deep into the layers of the hair fiber to reach the hair's polypeptide chains. It repairs the 18 amino acids in the hair chain. It restores and strengthens hair, leaving it soft and voluminous. Bonus: it's suitable for both fine and thick hair! 

New from 2024: the Absolut Repair Molecular leave-in mask ! This is a patented hair mask formulated with bond-repairing agents. The mask focuses on the 5 essential amino acids that make up hair. It repairs the macromolecular structure of hair, leaving it shiny and healthy-looking, and protecting it from external aggressions. A little extra: it offers thermal protection up to 450°C, unlike K18, which does not. Please note! 

 

 

Moisturizing mask

Food for Soft Hydrating Mask from Matrix is a Concept C favorite! It provides 7 times more moisture and leaves hair 5 times softer! What's more, its fresh melon scent is simply perfect. It's our favorite budget-friendly option!  

Moisturizing masks can't moisturize your hair enough? We've got just what you need: the 911 Quinoa Hydrating Mask ! It is enriched with quinoa and sunflower seed oil. This mask intensely softens and moisturizes your hair, while providing a rich dose of vitamins and proteins for a healthy, radiant look!

 

 

Shine Mask

Do you have color-treated hair and are always looking for ways to add shine? Redken's color gloss treatment makes your hair look like it's fresh from the salon. It's applied no more than once a week and helps seal cuticles. What's more, it sets the shine for 3 days! Another advantage: it also works for those with natural, uncolored hair. The effect is a little less intense, but a beautiful shine is still achieved. Psst: it's one of Maude's favorite products!

Living Proof also offers a shine treatment designed to revitalize dull, “lifeless” hair. It smoothes cuticles and aligns hair fibers for an ultra-shiny finish! It promises to maintain this shine for up to 3 washes, transforming hair's texture and appearance in just a few applications. 

 

 

Hybrid mask

The hybrid mask is ideal for those looking to find a balance between hydration and repair. Our favorite is Reken's ABC 5 minute Mask. In just 5 minutes, this mask repairs internal damage and penetrates the hair while sheathing it. The result: healthier hair than ever! If you haven't already, now is the perfect time to try it!

Looking for a treatment that more budget-friendly but just as effective? We suggest you opt for the restructuring mask from Alcôve. It gives your hair the level of revitalization, hydration and protection they need.

 

 

 

Great treatment

Looking for a miracle product for your hair care routine? The Top Drops from EVO give your hair a real boost. It is a concentrated treatment that adds shine and improves the health of your hair. Top Drops have four uses: repair , hydration , scalp and platinum . They can be used occasionally to enhance your hair. Plus, they are affordable and offer a salon-worthy effect!

 

 

The masks featured in this article are some of our favorites, but there are a ton of different options out there to explore! Each of these treatments has unique benefits that can fit your specific needs.

Feel free to ask us any questions or share your experiences on our social medias! We are here to help you find the perfect hair care product!