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The Best Hair Masks for Smooth and Healthy Hair

Kaitlyn Neese
Written by Ashley Neese
hair-mask-usweekly

Hair masks are incredibly beneficial since their ingredients are concentrated and they condition your hair much more deeply than traditional conditioners. They are effective against frizz and are ideal for people with dry or dull hair. But, the large number of options can definitely make it difficult to find one that’ll be suitable for your hair type. Through my research, I found that the Remilia Green Coco Hair Mask is a standout choice. It’s got wonderful ingredients, is safe for color-treated, relaxed, or chemically-treated hair, and it’s vegan and cruelty-free. Keep reading to learn more about this mask and the other best hair masks of 2024 on this list.

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Finding Your Next Hair Mask: A Buyer’s Guide

Hair masks are a solution to almost all hair problems, but it is important that you select one that is well-suited to your hair type. This buyer’s guide is designed to provide you with all the information you will need to choose the right mask for unique hair.

Benefits of Hair Masks

Hair masks can have a lot of benefits for your hair, provided you purchase the right one and use it correctly. The different ingredients in different masks mean that each one will have specific purposes, but there are a few benefits that all hair masks provide.

Provides Nourishment

One of the most common hair problems many people face is dry and dull hair. This can be due to many factors including environmental damage, using heat excessively, bleaching, dyeing, and using stripping shampoos. Most hair masks are infused with ingredients that are designed to condition your hair deeply, leaving it hydrated and moisturized. After a few uses, your hair will feel soft and appear visibly healthier. The extra hydration will make your hair shiny as well, without leaving behind an oily residue.

Detangles

Detangling your strands is one of the most useful benefits of hair masks. The hair is extremely brittle when it’s wet, and when you towel dry it or brush it out without removing the tangles, you'll face problems like breakage and frizz. In order to prevent this, hair masks are a must. After washing your hair with shampoo, wring out the excess water and apply a hair mask, detangling your hair using your fingers or brush. This is especially useful for those living in humid environments. Plus, using hair masks can not only prevent excessive breakage, but they can also help reduce frizz.

Scalp Help

Hair masks aren't just beneficial for your hair. They can have a lot of benefits for the scalp as well. If you suffer from a dry and itchy scalp, chances are, you have dandruff in your hair. Choosing the right ingredients may help reduce dandruff and can even improve the condition of the scalp. Dandruff flakes can be quite embarrassing, and it is important you treat the condition timely. A hair mask with nourishing ingredients like coconut oil will help lock in water and prevent scalp irritation. Of course, if your dandruff is unmanageable, you'll want speak to a dermatologist.

How To Use a Hair Mask

In order to achieve optimal results, it's important that you follow the right steps. The first thing you need to keep in mind is that you should carefully follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Depending on the ingredients and the texture of the mask, there may be different ways of applying it. We have provided a few general tips below that you should follow to achieve gorgeous results.

Always wash your hair with a shampoo to remove any product build-up and oil. If you wash your hair less frequently, consider using a clarifying shampoo. Once you have washed the shampoo out of your hair completely, wring out the excess water. You can also towel dry your hair to make sure that it's not dripping wet. According to the length of your hair, scoop out the mask and apply it to your hair, starting at the ends. Move your way upwards and cover your hair entirely from root to tip.

Once the hair is fully coated, leave the mask in for the time period provided by the manufacturer. You can also leave it in for longer, but make sure that you detangle it completely with the mask on. Instead of leaving it down, tie your hair up with a clip or wrap it around in a microfibre towel. Wash it out completely using lukewarm water. Try to avoid using extremely hot water as it can be stripping.

Reviewing the Best Hair Masks of 2024

1

Remilia Hair Green Coco Hair Mask

Pros

  • Provides intense moisture
  • Contains reparative and strengthening ingredients
  • Enhances texture and shine of hair

Cons

  • Scent isn't for everyone

Elevate your haircare routine with the Remilia Hair Green Coco Hair Mask, a luxurious blend of nourishing ingredients designed to transform your locks. Infused with the rejuvenating power of coconut oil and enriched with a harmonious mix of botanical extracts, this indulgent hair mask delivers a deeply hydrating and revitalizing experience. The creamy, luscious texture penetrates each strand, replenishing moisture and restoring elasticity from root to tip.

Say goodbye to dryness and frizz as this mask works its magic, leaving your hair irresistibly soft, smooth, and manageable. I was impressed to see that it's formulated with antioxidants and essential vitamins to strengthen and protect against environmental stressors while promoting healthy growth. 

2

Vitamins Keratin Purple Hair Mask

Pros

  • Helps neutralize yellow or brassy tones
  • Provides deep conditioning benefits for hydration
  • Easy and convenient to apply

Cons

  • May not work for all blondes

Elevate your hair game and maintain the perfect cool-toned look with the Vitamins Keratin Purple Hair Mask, a transformative and nourishing treatment designed for blonde, silver, and gray hair. This luxurious mask is your secret weapon against unwanted yellow or brassy undertones that can detract from the beauty of your light-colored locks. Infused with purple pigments, it works to neutralize these undesired hues, leaving your hair with a refreshed, vibrant, and revitalized appearance. Plus, it deeply conditions your hair. As you indulge in this pampering treatment, your hair will receive a rich blend of moisturizing and strengthening ingredients, including keratin.

This mask makes it easy to maintain the health and aesthetics of your hair without the need for frequent salon visits. I think the convenience of this mask is the icing on the cake. It's a quick and effortless addition to your hair care routine. Just a few minutes of application, and you can enjoy the benefits of toning and deep conditioning in the comfort of your own home. 

3

Orca Beauty Keratin Hair Mask

Pros

  • Free from harmful chemicals
  • Ideal for all hair types
  • Protects hair from further damage

Cons

  • Not super hydrating

This Orca Beauty Hair Mask is a keratin-infused mask, which is designed to repair and restore dull and damaged hair. All the ingredients used are 100% natural and include vitamin B complex, vitamin E, Omega 3 and 9, and silk protein. It's free from harmful chemicals like sulfate and parabens and doesn't contain any gluten. The brand is also cruelty-free, and the product does not contain any harmful or toxic chemicals that could be dangerous to you.

The formula is designed to protect your hair from environmental damage, so you can enjoy shiny, silky, and glossy hair, without having to visit the salon. This mask will also help repair hair damaged by harsh treatments and excessive heat. It's ideal for all hair types, including straight, curly, thick, thin, and color-treated hair. You can apply it all over your hair from the roots to tips. I put this hair mask on this list because it is infused with natural ingredients and will protect and repair your damaged hair.

4

K18 Leave-In Molecular Hair Mask

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Vegan and cruelty-free
  • Helps repair broken bonds

Cons

  • High price point

The K18 Leave-In Molecular Hair Mask is designed to restore and repair hair damage caused by bleach, color, chemical services, and heat. This product is backed by biotechnology, featuring a patented K18 peptide that's the right size and makeup to reconnect broken keratin chains responsible for hair strength and elasticity. The at-home leave-in treatment promises lasting results that won’t wash away.

It works to transform even the most extreme damage into hair that looks and feels like new. And the mask is suitable for all hair types, regardless of age. This leave-in product is quick and easy to use; it takes just four minutes for women to reverse the damage caused by coloring or other methods. The results include strength, softness, smoothness, and bounce for hair that looks and feels like new. I believe this is an ideal product for those who want to repair their damaged hair without having to visit a salon.

5

Arvazallia Hydrating Argan Oil Hair Mask

Pros

  • Great ingredients
  • Works on all hair types
  • Can help over-processed hair

Cons

  • Fragrance too strong for some

Experience the ultimate in hair hydration and repair with the Arvazallia Hydrating Argan Oil Hair Mask. Formulated with premium quality argan oil, this intensive treatment deeply nourishes and revitalizes even the driest and most damaged strands. The rich, creamy texture penetrates deeply into the hair shaft, restoring moisture, softness, and shine from within.

Whether your hair is parched from heat styling, chemical treatments, or environmental stressors, this mask works wonders to replenish and fortify it. Say goodbye to frizz, split ends, and dullness as this luxurious conditioner transforms your locks into silky smooth tresses that are noticeably healthier and more resilient. I chose this mask because it's suitable for all hair types and indulges your hair in the pampering it deserves, leaving it feeling gloriously rejuvenated and beautifully restored with every use. 

6

OGX Hydrate Repair + Argan Oil of Morocco Hair Mask

Pros

  • Packed with beneficial ingredients
  • Citrusy and woody fragrance
  • Tames frizz and adds shine

Cons

  • Could be too heavy for thinner hair

The OGX Hydrate Repair + Argan Oil of Morocco Hair Mask is designed to deeply condition the hair to provide a renewed look and feel to your hair. The water-based silk proteins penetrate each strand from the inside out, which helps soften the hair and improves its strength and elasticity. The cold-pressed Moroccan argan oil is the star ingredient, and it helps by giving your hair a natural boost.

Unlike several other hair masks, the scent of this mask is extremely pleasant because it is citrus-fresh and woody. And other ingredients include coconut oil, which is efficient against frizz and adds luster, and vanilla bean extract, along with a touch of tiare. This hair mask is ideal for people with dry and coarse hair, and medium to high volume. For better results, OGX recommends keeping it simple and pairing this mask with the shampoo and conditioner of the same line.

7

Marc Anthony Grow Long Anti-Breakage Hair Mask

Pros

  • Helps hair elasticity
  • Smooth hair cuticles
  • Ideal for all hair types

Cons

  • Not moisturizing enough for some

If your hair is prone to breakage and you often notice split ends, this Marc Anthony Grow Long Anti-Breakage Hair Mask is for you. It's infused with ingredients like caffeine, hydrolyzed keratin, biotin, and ginseng, which work by conditioning your hair deeply and smoothing the cuticles for extra softness and strength.

The formula is anti-breakage and works to revive the elasticity of your hair. This will help you grow out your hair as long as you want without damage. And since it can prevent split-ends as well, you may not need to get your hair trimmed as often. It's recommended to keep it on for at least three to five minutes. Plus, the mask works on for hair types. I love that this mask is free from any harsh chemicals like parabens, sulfates, phthalates, or SLS. 

8

Briogeo Don’t Despair Repair Hair Mask

Pros

  • Ideal for chemically-treated hair
  • Clinically proven to strengthen hair
  • Makes hair softer

Cons

  • Expensive price point

Briogeo's Don't Despair Repair Hair Mask is another one of my favorites because it is suitable for all hair types. It is a deep conditioner that will leave your hair stronger and will also protect it from future damage. I was surprised that it's clinically proven to reduce hair breakage after just two uses. It also improves the long-term health of the hair by adding shine, strength, and silkiness.

The most important ingredients are rosehip oil, B vitamins, and algae extract. The rosehip oil helps tame frizz and maintain hair hydration, the B vitamins improve hair texture and add volume and shine, and algae extract helps strengthen the hair and protects the scalp from damage. The formula is rich in antioxidants and it consists of 97% naturally derived ingredients. Plus it's free from harsh chemicals, and the hair mask is vegan and gluten-free. 

People Also Ask

  • Q: How often should I use a hair mask?

    A:It all depends on the ingredients of the mask, so make sure you read through them before purchasing. Some masks are okay to use more frequently but others should only be used once a week because they can be too heavy and weigh down you hair. When in doubt, always follow the recommendation of the manufacturer.

  • Q: Can I use a hair mask instead of a conditioner?

    A:Yes, a hair mask can definitely be used instead of a conditioner, because you are supposed to use it after shampooing your hair. We do not recommend throwing away your conditioner though. You can alternate between the two to achieve even better results or use both in some case.

  • Q: Is it okay to mix two different hair masks?

    A:Mixing two hair masks may not be a good idea because some ingredients are not compatible with each other. If you mix two different masks without doing your research about the ingredients, you may end up damaging your hair even more.

  • Q: Can I use a hair mask on my scalp?

    A:Hair masks are primarily intended for the lengths and ends of your hair. Typically, you'll want to avoid applying them directly to your scalp, as this could lead to buildup or irritation. Of course, some masks may be especially designed for scalp care, so pay attention to the product's features and directions.

  • Q: Can I use a hair mask on color-treated hair?

    A:Yes, many hair masks are safe to use on color-treated hair. You'll want to look for masks specifically formulated for color-treated hair to help maintain vibrancy and hydration. Some masks even have toning or color-depositing properties to enhance your existing color.

Why trust Us

At Us Weekly, we aim to inform readers to make smart purchasing decisions, saving you both time and money. Our editors are obsessed with finding products in a variety of categories from fashion and beauty, to home and fitness.

We try various products, so we can recommend our favorites, and we also summarize feedback and data from other customers. Data, like product reviews and ratings, helps us recommend the best product choices for individual price points and needs.

On top of that, we highlight unique product features for special use cases, ingredients preferences, and more. We strive to make sure you are discovering new products that can make your life easier, while keeping you up to date with the best product choices for types of items you already know and love.

Kaitlyn Neese

By Ashley Neese

Hi, I'm Ashley Neese and I graduated from Auburn University with a bachelor’s degree in journalism.  I'm passionate about all things beauty, fashion, and wellness — specifically skin care, makeup, and natural health. I love writing about things that help people feel like their best selves, whether it's finding their perfect lip color or a supplement to alleviate anxiety. In my free time, I am usually reading a romantic comedy or playing with my two dogs.

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