The Good. Clean. Fun.™ BLOG

A quality conditioner is the foundation of any effective haircare routine. It helps restore moisture and fortifies the cuticles to promote soft, smooth, shiny tresses. Still, through all the everyday wear and tear your hair goes through, you might feel like your strands need a little extra TLC. A hair mask is a great way to accomplish that task.

While hair masks have been used for centuries, there are still many questions about the topic. How do they differ from a conditioner, and when and how do you use one? You’ve got questions — we’ve got the answers. Trust us — once you start using a hair mask, you’ll understand why it’s a product you want to add to your routine.

What Is a Hair Mask?

Hair masks are deeply nourishing treatments typically formulated with butters, oils, and other nutritive ingredients that are more concentrated than your regular conditioner. These additives also perform on a deeper level, giving tresses noticeably improved results after just one use. However, masks need to be left on the hair a bit longer to reap benefits such as stronger hair and scalp, reduced breakage and damage, added moisture, less frizz, and increased shine and softness.

How to Use a Hair Mask Step By Step

For optimal results, be consistent with your mask treatments. As a general rule of thumb, one to three times a week is enough — less frequently if your strands are thinner or oilier. Once you introduce a mask into your routine, it will be easier to determine the frequency and the amount of time the product should be left on your hair. 

Step 1. Wash Your Hair 

Always use a hair mask after shampooing. Removing dirt, excess oils, and product buildup is essential so the mask can effectively penetrate your strands. Lather up with Better Natured® Moisturizing Shampoo. This mega-hydrating shampoo gently but thoroughly cleanses, leaving hair looking and feeling noticeably softer, shiny, hydrated, and ready to receive your hair mask*. Skip the conditioner this time around and reserve that for non-mask days. 

*Free from animal-derived ingredients.

Step 2. Remove Excess Water 

Before getting into the masking process, remove excess water with a microfiber towel until your tresses are damp, not soaking wet. We recommend not skipping this step because it helps the key ingredients effectively penetrate your strands so your hair can receive all the benefits. 

Featured: Moisture Replenishing Hair Masque

Step 3. Apply and Evenly Distribute the Hair Mask

Apply a generous amount of Better Natured® Moisture Replenishing Masque to the mid-lengths to ends of your hair only. 

This luscious treatment masque gives dry, brittle, over-processed hair an epic dose of moisture while taking the struggle out of detangling and making combing a whole lot easier, thanks to protective lipids that mimic those found naturally in strong hair. It’s formulated with 97 percent naturally-derived* ingredients, including our signature Triple Plant Milk blend of Coconut, Tahitian Palm, and White Orchid. You’ll love the exotic smell!

Gently work the mask through your hair with your hands in a downward motion to enhance product penetration and seal the cuticle. Next, use a wide-tooth comb to ensure it’s evenly distributed. 

Step 4. Leave on the Mask for the Desired Amount of Time

We recommend leaving the mask on for about three to five minutes, depending on your hair texture. 

Step 5. Rinse Thoroughly

Hair masks like ours are formulated with nourishing, reparative ingredients at a concentrated level, so it’s vital to thoroughly rinse your hair so it doesn’t feel weighed down. 

And that’s it! Follow these instructions next time you use a hair mask for moisture-filled tresses! Your locks will thank you for the extra care.

Image credits:

• Aquarius Studio/Shutterstock.com
• FotoDuets/Shutterstock.com