How to Apply a Hair Mask

Hair masks can help hydrate and strengthen hair. To use a hair mask effectively, you need to apply it correctly. Hair masks should be applied to slightly damp hair and worked in from root to tip. The amount of time you leave your mask on depends on the type of mask. Hair masks take some experimentation to find the right amount for you and your hair type.

Method 1
Method 1 of 2:

Applying the Mask Thoroughly

  1. Image titled Apply a Hair Mask Step 1
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    Read the directions carefully. Many commercial hair masks come with special instructions. Some may only be designed for weekly use and some may need to be kept in for specific timeframes. Not all hair masks can be used interchangeably in terms of the duration and frequency of use. Make sure to read instructions carefully before applying a hair mask. If you use a mask and find it has adverse results, you may have missed certain instructions.[1]
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    2
    Wear an old t-shirt when applying messy masks. Hair masks can get messy. When applying a hair mask, put an old t-shirt, a hair styling cape, or another item of clothing on you don't mind spilling on. Clothing can easily get damaged during the application process.[2]
    • You can also try wrapping yourself in a towel while applying a hair mask.
    • You can get a hair styling cape at a beauty store. These capes are like the ones you wear when you get your hair cut.
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    Wash and towel dry your hair. Before applying your hair mask, wash your hair as you normally would. Then, pat your hair dry with a towel so it's damp. Do not blow dry your hair before applying a hair mask. Your hair should be slightly wet when you apply your mask.[3]
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    Separate your hair into sections. It's easiest to apply a mask if you separate your wet hair into roughly three or four even sections. For example, try two sections on either side of your head, one in front, and one in back. Secure the sections with clips or hair ties and apply your mask to one section at a time.[4]
    • Longer and thicker hair may require more sections. You may need to split it into 4-8 sections of hair.
    • If you have very short hair, however, sections may be unnecessary.
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    Apply the mask from roots to tips. Start to massage the mask into your scalp. Then, work the mask downward to the tips of your hair. Try to disperse the mask evenly throughout your hair, using gentle massaging motions to apply the mask.[5]
    • Pay extra attention to your tips. Tips are often prone to dryness and need extra care.
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    Comb your hair with the mask in place. After applying the mask to your full head of hair, take a medium or wide-toothed comb. Comb through your hair once with the mask in place. This will ensure the mask is more evenly distributed throughout your hair.[6]
    • This may not work on all hair types. If you have curly hair, for example, you can comb through your hair just using your fingers or you can skip this step.
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    Rinse out the mask and condition your hair. After wearing your mask for the necessary timeframe, rinse it out in the shower. Then, apply conditioner as you normally would to rehydrate your hair.
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Method 2
Method 2 of 2:

Optimizing the Mask's Effects

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    Cover your head with a shower cap and hot towel after applying the mask. Place the plastic shower cap over your hair after applying the mask. Next, wrap a hot towel around the shower cap. Leave it in place for 10 minutes. This will help the mask make more direct contact with your scalp, making it more effective overall.[7]
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    2
    Vary the times depending on the mask's purpose. How long you leave your mask on varies. If using a commercial mask, refer to the instructions manual. With a homemade mask, however, leave the mask in for different time periods depending on what you're trying to achieve.[8]
    • For protein treatments, leave the mask in place for 10 minutes.
    • For hydrating treatment, leave the mask in place for five to 10 minutes.
    • Coconut oil masks should be left on for at least 30 minutes.
    • Olaplex masks should be left on for at least 10 minutes, but work better if left on longer. Strive to leave an olaplex mask on for 30 minutes or more.
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    Sleep in your hair mask if your hair is very dry. If you're trying to treat very dry hair, sleep in your hair mask. Place a towel, shower cap, or other covering over your hair and let the mask sit in overnight. In the morning, rinse the mask out in the shower. Your hair should be left noticeably softer and more moisturized.[9]
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    Use less hair mask next time if your hair is greasy. Your hair should not be noticeably greasier after using a hair mask. If you notice your hair becomes greasy after using a hair mask, you probably used too much product. Next time, cut down on the amount you used and see if this fixes the issue.[10]
    • If a hair mask makes your hair greasy even in small amounts, it may be the wrong hair mask for your hair type. Try using a mask designed for oily hair.
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Expert Q&A

  • Question
    What is a keratin hair mask?
    Laura Martin
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist in Georgia. She has been a hair stylist since 2007 and a cosmetology teacher since 2013.
    Laura Martin
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Expert Answer
    A keratin mask is one that contains keratin protein, the protein that your hair is made of. It will strengthen your hair.
  • Question
    Do I put a hair mask on wet or dry hair?
    Laura Martin
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist in Georgia. She has been a hair stylist since 2007 and a cosmetology teacher since 2013.
    Laura Martin
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Expert Answer
    A mask should go on freshly-washed, damp hair. It won't absorb properly on dry hair or soaking wet hair.
  • Question
    When should I do a hair treatment?
    Laura Martin
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist in Georgia. She has been a hair stylist since 2007 and a cosmetology teacher since 2013.
    Laura Martin
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Expert Answer
    After washing your hair is the best time to do a treatment. A weekend morning when you have time to let it process is ideal.
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References

  1. ↑ http://stylecaster.com/beauty/hair-masks/
  2. ↑ https://www.naturallycurly.com/curlreading/curly-hair-care-methods/this-is-how-to-apply-remove-a-diy-hair-masque-bi/
  3. ↑ https://www.jeanlouisdavid.us/article/how-to-apply-a-hair-mask-correctly_a948/1
  4. ↑ https://www.naturallycurly.com/curlreading/curly-hair-care-methods/this-is-how-to-apply-remove-a-diy-hair-masque-bi/
  5. ↑ https://www.jeanlouisdavid.us/article/how-to-apply-a-hair-mask-correctly_a948/1
  6. ↑ http://www.hairromance.com/2015/06/how-long-should-you-leave-hair-mask-on-your-hair.html
  7. ↑ https://www.jeanlouisdavid.us/article/how-to-apply-a-hair-mask-correctly_a948/1
  8. ↑ http://www.hairromance.com/2015/06/how-long-should-you-leave-hair-mask-on-your-hair.html
  9. ↑ http://stylecaster.com/beauty/hair-masks/
  1. ↑ http://stylecaster.com/beauty/hair-masks/

About This Article

Michael Van den Abbeel
Co-authored by:
Michael Van den Abbeel
Professional Hair Stylist
This article was co-authored by Michael Van den Abbeel. Michael Van den Abbeel is a Professional Hair Stylist and the Owner of Mosaic Hair Studio and Blowout Bar in Orlando, Florida. He has been cutting, styling, and coloring hair for over 17 years. Michael loves showing his clients how to wash and wear their hair easily and effortlessly. Mosaic Hair Studio and Blowout Bar is recognized as a Diamond Top Tier level Wella salon. This article has been viewed 305,518 times.
5 votes - 60%
Co-authors: 7
Updated: November 3, 2022
Views: 305,518
Categories: Hair Masks
Article SummaryX

Before you apply your hair mask, read the instructions carefully as many products need to be used in different ways. Then, wash and dry your hair with a towel before separating your hair into 2-3 sections so the mask is easier to rub in. When you apply the mask, begin at the roots and massage out towards your tips. To finish, comb your hair to ensure the mask is distributed evenly, leave the mask in for the necessary amount of time, and apply conditioner after you wash the mask out. To find out how to make your mask more effective, including why it's important to wear a shower cap, read on!

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