How Often Should You Use a Hair Mask?

Hair masks have the pampering power to pep up locks in need of some extra TLC. But what is the difference between a hair mask and conditioner? And how often should you use a hair mask? We’re here to answer these questions and more.  

What is a Hair Mask?

Firstly, let’s look at the difference between conditioner and hair masks. A conditioner is a post-shampoo product formulated for regular washing. Applied to your hair, it makes it softer and easier to comb through. A mask goes much deeper than that. Usually thicker in consistency than conditioner, masks are packed with super-nourishing ingredients to give your locks a beautifying boost. These ingredients usually need more time to penetrate the hair shaft than conditioners, so masks need to be left on the hair longer than conditioner (more on that below). Think of conditioner as being like a daily face moisturiser and a hair mask as being like an enriching face mask or pack. 

Why Should You Use a Hair Mask?

Hair masks help address issues with hair to keep it at its healthiest. Whether your strands are parched and in need of an extra shot of moisture, or your hair and scalp are crying out for balance, there’s a hair mask to help. But more than that, using a hair mask is a perfect opportunity to indulge in some serious self care. While your mask does its thing, you can meditate, read a book, listen to podcast, soak in the bath, or just relax. And if you’re using one of our hair masks, you can breathe deep and take in the 100% natural origin aroma. Bliss. 

How Do You Use a Hair Mask?

Squeeze any excess moisture out of your freshly-washed locks, scoop a dollop of hair mask out of the pot and apply evenly to your scalp and through the lengths of your hair. Some people like to use a wide-tooth comb here to ensure every strand gets coated in the mask, but that’s optional. Let the goodness soak in for between three and 20 minutes, depending how deep a treatment you need (and how much time you’ve got to spare). Three minutes is the minimum amount of time needed for the mask to be effective, whilst 20 minutes is the maximum – ideal for when your tresses are extra stressed. When the time’s up, rinse the mask out thoroughly, ensuring the water runs clear. Dry and style as normal. Enjoy your softer, shinier, happier hair. 

So, How Often Should You Use a Hair Mask?

Every head of hair is different, and how often you should use a hair mask depends very much on your individual hair and its needs. As a general rule, you should aim for once a week. Using a mask any more frequently than that will make the product less effective and could weigh your hair down. Some people like to treat their hair to a shorter (three-to-five minute) mask once a week and indulge in a longer treatment once a month, or for special occasions. Hair that’s very dry or damaged might benefit from a longer application on a more regular basis, such as once a fortnight. Once you add hair masks to your routine, you’ll soon get to know when your hair is ready for its next treatment. 

Try our range of cruelty-free, vegan hair masks. They’re all free of parabens and SLS and made with 100% natural origin aroma.  

• Dragon Fruit is revitalising for all hair types, and bursting with the juicy scent of exotic fruit. 
• Rose & Chamomile restores normal to dry hair with its floral scent and extracts of rosehip and chamomile. 
• Coconut & Shea hydrates normal to dry hair with the tropical scent of organic coconut oil and the moisturising benefits of shea butter. 
• Shea & Argan nourishes dry or very dry hair with its natural aroma and rich shea butter and argan oil ingredients.  This one’s especially popular with fans of the Curly Girl Method.