How to Use Hair Mask: The Ultimate Guide to Benefits, Application, and Best Practices

Yes, you can go wrong with something as simple as a hair mask. Two hair experts dispense hair mask best practices

Praneet Sahni Kalani

Praneet Sahni Kalani

16 Apr ‘25
hair mask Hair Growth Hair Fall Anti-Frizz
hair mask Hair Growth Hair Fall Anti-Frizz

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The sheer idea of luscious locks is enticing enough in this weather. As summer takes over our food choices, wardrobe decisions and where to vacation, it is accompanied by frizzy hair. Even though I’m a summer baby, I find it a tedious task to manage my fly aways and ensure that my straight hair or curls stay in place even in this heat. And you know what? It takes only five minutes for me to turn into Rubeus Hagrid (Harry Potter fans would know) as soon as I take my styled hair out to an event.

So we move to the question – do hair masks really help with hair health? Vaishakhi Haria, founder of Splash Salons in Mumbai, shares that hair masks are actually the quickest way to fix hair health. “They deeply nourish the hair and give instant results.” If you’re wondering when to apply a hair mask, these are the signs. When you notice damage, frizz, lack of lustre, and weakening hair strands, turn to a hair mask. Amit Chauhan, a celebrity hair and makeup creative stylist explains, “depending on the ingredients, hair masks can target specific concerns such as dryness, split ends, dandruff, or excessive oiliness.”

What is a Hair Mask and How Does it Work

What is a Hair Mask and How Does it Work

It’s a common misconception that floats around about hair masks – that they weigh down your hair. As a deep-conditioning treatment designed to nourish, repair, and hydrate hair more effectively than a regular conditioner, a hair mask usually contains highly concentrated ingredients such as natural oils, proteins, and vitamins. These penetrate the hair shaft and provide intense moisture, strength, and restoration. If you’re wondering how to apply a hair mask correctly, start by choosing the right one for your hair type.

Benefits of Using a Hair Mask

Benefits of Using a Hair Mask

Deep Conditioning:

Nourishes hair from root to tip, restoring moisture and strength. Hair masks penetrate deeper than regular conditioners, helping to repair dry, brittle strands from within. Ideal for hair that's been stressed by weather, heat, or chemical treatments.

Reduced Hair Fall & Breakage:

Strengthens strands and minimizes damage caused by styling, heat, or dryness.Rich in proteins, ceramides, and nourishing oils, hair masks help fortify the hair shaft, reducing split ends and fall due to breakage. Regular use means stronger, more resilient hair over time.

Improved Shine & Smoothness:

Leaves hair visibly shinier, softer, and way easier to manage.By replenishing lost moisture and sealing the cuticle, masks reduce frizz and enhance your hair’s natural sheen. Think of it as a glow-up for your strands.

Targeted Hair Solutions:

Treats specific concerns like frizz, dryness, damage, or lack of volume.Whether your hair is colour-treated, heat-damaged, or just feeling flat, there’s a mask for that. Custom formulas address unique hair needs for better, quicker results.

Salon-Like Results at Home:

Delivers that post-salon feel without the appointment — or the price tag.Indulge in a little self-care with pro-level treatments that leave hair soft, silky, and freshly revived. A weekly masking ritual can rival your favourite blow-dry bar.

Love Beauty & Planet Argan Oil & Lavender, Paraben Free Smooth & Serene Hair Mask

₹540.00 ₹600.00

Dove 10 in 1 Deep Repair Treatment Hair Mask for damaged hair

₹519.00 ₹649.00

How to Use a Hair Mask Step-By-Step

How to Use a Hair Mask Step-By-Step

Amit suggests that each concern should be addressed with its corresponding ingredient. For instance, you can use shea butter, argan oil, or coconut oil for dry and damaged hair. Keratin, avocado oil, or silk proteins for frizzy hair. And a lightweight clarifying mask for oily hair.

Step 1: Start by picking a mask that matches your hair needs — whether it’s dryness, frizz, damage, or lack of shine. Look for ingredients like argan oil for smoothness, keratin for strength, or shea butter for deep hydration. One mask doesn’t fit all!

Step 2: Wash your hair. A sulphate free shampoo is your best bet to cleanse and remove any buildup.

Step 3: Squeeze out excess water. After shampooing, gently squeeze out any extra water from your hair. You want it damp — not soaking — so the mask can actually absorb.

Step 4: Apply from Mid-Lengths to Ends. Take a generous amount of the hair mask and apply it evenly from mid-lengths to ends. If the mask is scalp-safe, you can apply it to your roots too.

Step 5: Detangle Gently. Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle your hair while the mask is on. This helps spread the product evenly and reduces breakage — a pro tip Vaishakhi swears by.

Step 6: Let It Work Its Magic. Leave the mask on for 10–15 minutes (or as instructed on the label). Now’s the time to kick back, scroll a bit, or just vibe.

Step 7: Rinse It Right. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm or cool water. This helps seal the cuticle, lock in moisture, and leaves your hair feeling super smooth and fresh.

Step 8: Style as Usual. You can let your hair air-dry or use a heat protectant before blow-drying.

When to Apply a Hair Mask & How Often Should You Use It?

When to Apply a Hair Mask & How Often Should You Use It?

Look for the signs: Frizz, dullness, breakage, dryness, or hair that just won’t behave — these are all signals your strands are craving a mask moment.

Dry or Damaged Hair: Use a mask 1–2 times a week to deeply hydrate, repair, and restore shine.

Normal Hair: Once a week is perfect for keeping hair healthy, soft, and smooth.

Oily Hair or Scalp: Use sparingly — once every 10 to 15 days is enough to nourish without weighing hair down.

Don’t Overdo It: Too much of a good thing can backfire. Overusing hair masks can lead to build-up, flat roots, and greasy strands.

What Should You Consider While Choosing The Right Hair Mask?

What Should You Consider While Choosing The Right Hair Mask?

“With the availability of innumerable hair masks in the market, finding the right one can feel really complicated. I always recommend getting professional consultation from your hairstylist who knows your hair texture through the years. Take their guidance and pick the right one”, shares Vaishakhi. If you’re facing hair fall, a hair mask can be the ultimate rescue remedy. When asked how often should I use a hair mask, she adds, “usually we use hair masks once in 3-4 washes. However the frequency of usage depends from person to person.”

Tresemme has a range of hair masks that aim to address every hair concern. Feeling too dry and frizzy? Infuse the goodness of Aloe Essence with TreSemmé Pro Pure Moisture Boost Mask. It helps retain the moisture of the hair, preserving and nourishing it from roots up to the tip, while giving your hair a hydrated and healthier look. Another great hair mask for frizzy hair would be the LBP Argan Oil & Lavender Hair Mask. Have you damaged your hair by colour treatment or heat styling too much? Dove 10 in 1 Deep Repair Treatment Hair Mask is enriched with fortifying ingredients like fermented rice water. Call it the hair mask for hair fall, its unique damage recovery formula helps strengthen hair and sunflower seed oil helps smoothen hair.

Common Mistakes To Avoid When Using a Hair Mask

Common Mistakes To  Avoid When Using a Hair Mask

1. Apply the mask on damp, not soaking wet, hair.

2. Do not leave the mask on overnight unless instructed.

3. Don’t mix multiple hair treatments at once, as they may counteract each other.

4. Don’t overdo it. Excessive us can do more harm than good. Vaishakhi adds, “using a lot of hair masks or using too frequently can sometimes over-saturate the hair. Too much product residue can lead to a flaky scalp.

Expert Recommendations For Deep Conditioning

Expert Recommendations For Deep Conditioning

1. You must tailor its use. Vaishakhi explains that if you have fine hair, a light weight hair mask is ideal. For thick coarse hair, it is better to use a mask that is more hydrating & deeply nourishes the hair.

2. Follow the recommended usage frequency. This is typically 1-2 times a week.

3. Apply heat for deeper penetration. You can do so with a shower cap or warm towel.

4. Do not leave anything behind. Rinse thoroughly to avoid residue buildup.

5. Amit suggests using DIY with natural ingredients to switch up your hair care routine. “You can add ingredients from your kitchen like banana, honey, and yogurt for an extra boost.”

Head Turner

Head Turner

Incorporating a hair mask into your hair care routine is a simple yet powerful practice to achieve healthier, shinier, and stronger hair. No matter your hair needs, choosing the right mask and applying it correctly can make all the difference. With regular use, your hair will feel revitalized, nourished, and salon-fresh—all from the comfort of your home.

Meet The Experts:

1. Vaishakhi Haria is the founder of Splash Salons at multiple locations in Mumbai. She is also the co-founder of Very V Salon in Borivali and has over 17 years of experience in the hairdressing industry.

2. Amit Chauhan is a celebrity hair and makeup creative stylist at Looks Salon in Mumbai with over 16 years of industry experience, specializing in bridal, editorial, fashion, runway, and celebrity styling. His work has been featured in prestigious publications such as Vogue, Elle, and Femina.

FAQs

1. How often should I use a hair mask?

Ans. For dry and damaged hair, use 1-2 times per week. For oily hair, use it every 10-15 days. For normal hair, you should use it once a week for maintenance.

2. What’s the difference between a conditioner and a hair mask?

Ans. A conditioner provides surface-level hydration and detangling, while a hair mask offers deep nourishment and repair by penetrating the hair shaft.

3. Can I use a hair mask on my scalp?

Ans. It depends on the type of mask. If you’re using a hydrating and repair mask, then apply from mid-lengths to ends only to avoid buildup. If your hair mask is scalp-specific, this one is probably designed for the roots and scalp to address dandruff or oiliness.

4. Will a hair mask make my hair greasy?

Ans. If applied correctly, a hair mask should leave your hair hydrated, not greasy. This means avoiding the scalp and rinsing it well. If your hair feels oily after use, try a lighter formula or use it less frequently.

BePicks

What is a Hair Mask? How to Use a Hair Mask Types of Hair Masks Step-by-Step Guide
What is a Hair Mask? How to Use a Hair Mask Types of Hair Masks Step-by-Step Guide
Praneet Sahni Kalani

Praneet Sahni Kalani

Praneet Sahni Kalani is a fashion & lifestyle writer. Find her near cream cheese dimsums and obsessing over hair care.