How to Use a Hair Mask: A Specialist Weighs In

Hair masks can be a helpful addition to your hair care routine, but it’s difficult to experience the benefits unless you know how to use a hair mask correctly. That’s why we’ve asked Tabitha Osman, extension and fine-hair specialist and owner at Haven Holistic Salon, to share helpful tips and answer common questions about using a mask for healthy hair. 

In this article, you’ll learn the benefits of using a hair mask, steps for how to apply one, and which one works best for most hair types.

Why use a hair mask?

You should use a hair mask if your strands need extra care beyond your regular conditioner. Osman says a hair mask acts like a spa treatment for your hair. It’s richer and more concentrated than a conditioner, offering deeper moisture, repair, and strengthening benefits. It also helps reduce breakage, improve elasticity, and strengthen hair by repairing weak or damaged cuticles.

How to Use a Hair Mask: Step-by-Step

Osman shares the following steps for using a hair mask at home to get the best results.

1. Shampoo or Clarify Your Hair

Wash your hair with a gentle clarifying or low-residue shampoo to remove buildup. This lets the mask actually reach your hair instead of sitting on buildup.

If you don’t wash your hair often or it feels oily, do a double wash before using a hair mask. This helps ensure your hair is thoroughly cleansed and ready to absorb all the benefits.

2. Towel Dry Hair

Gently blot hair to remove excess water. A microfiber towel or cotton T-shirt is best to avoid creating frizz or breakage. 

If you plan to leave the mask on overnight, lightly dry the roots. If your scalp is too damp, it could cause irritation or a flat, greasy look.

3. Apply & Distribute the Mask

Apply the mask from mid-length to the ends of your hair. If your scalp is dry and you’ll rinse the same day, you can apply a small amount to the scalp. If you’re leaving the mask overnight, avoid applying it directly to the roots to prevent buildup or flatness. 

After you apply the mask, use a wide-tooth comb or wet brush to evenly distribute the product.

5. Let Hair Mask Sit

Leave the mask in your hair according to the directions on the product. Some masks work in two minutes, while others need 20 to 30 minutes. If you’re using a moisturizing mask, especially if you have extensions, you might leave it on overnight.

No matter how long you’re letting your mask sit, wrap your hair in a towel or use a plastic cap to help it absorb better. 

6. Rinse Thoroughly

Rinse the mask out completely with cool or lukewarm water to help seal the cuticle and add shine.

If you have very coily hair, you can try rinsing some of the mask, while leaving the rest. This can act as a leave-in treatment, but because conditioning masks tend to be rich, start with a small amount — just enough to help your curls stay hydrated without feeling heavy.

7. Use Conditioner (optional)

You usually don’t have to use a conditioner since the mask does the heavy lifting. However, a lightweight leave-in can help with manageability and hydration, especially for dry hair or extensions. If your hair feels soft but tangles easily or doesn’t feel smooth, a light conditioner or diluted version can help add moisture and manageability without weighing it down.

The Best Hair Mask to Use at Home

Osman recommends avoiding kitchen ingredients for your hair mask and instead focusing on formulas made for your hair type and goals. 

Understanding your hair’s porosity (how well it absorbs moisture) and elasticity (how much it can stretch without breaking) helps you choose the right mask. For example, low-porosity hair benefits from lighter, moisture-based masks, while high-porosity or damaged hair often needs more protein for strength. Alternate between moisture and protein treatments and trim regularly to prevent breakage.

Our favorite hair mask is Oakwell Cosmetics Deep Conditioning Hair Mask, which usually works well for all hair types. It’s made with beneficial ingredients like beer hops, coconut oil, shea butter, and wheat protein. It also has a refreshing oats, roasted barley, vanilla, and orange aroma that makes it a treat for your hair care routine.

How to Use a Hair Mask: FAQs

Make the most of your hair mask routine with answers to common questions below.

How do you properly use a hair mask?

To properly use a hair mask, start by shampooing and towel-drying. Apply from mid-lengths to ends, let it sit as directed, then rinse thoroughly. You can finish with a leave-in conditioner if needed.

Do you do a hair mask before or after shampooing?

You should apply a hair mask after shampooing. Clean hair allows the product to penetrate and work more effectively.

Should you put a hair mask on wet or dry hair?

It’s best to apply a hair mask to damp hair, says Osman. This helps it spread evenly, uses less product, and locks in moisture. Applying to dry hair can make it harder to distribute and may require more product.

How long do you leave a hair mask on?

Most masks stay on anywhere from a few minutes to 30 minutes. Always follow the instructions for your specific product.

How often should someone use a hair mask?

Hair mask frequency depends on your hair type, how often you shampoo, and your environment, says Osman. It’s best to listen to your hair’s response to find your ideal rhythm. Your haircare professional can also offer personalized advice. 

Use a hair mask more often if:

• You shampoo frequently
• Your hair is dry, coarse, or chemically treated
• You live in a cold or dry climate
• You’re repairing damage and using a protein mask temporarily

Use a hair mask less frequently if:

• Your hair is fine, oily, or healthy
• You notice buildup or your hair starts feeling heavy
• You live in a humid climate
• You’ve been using protein masks regularly (they can make hair stiff or brittle if overused)

How to Use a Hair Mask: Conclusion

Learning how to use a hair mask the right way helps your hair stay soft, strong, and shiny. Follow Osman’s simple steps, choose the right mask for your needs, and stay consistent for hair that looks and feels healthy.