Hair Mask 101: How to Use Them and Why They're Important

HOW TO

Everyone's hair has specific needs, but all hair types need an occasional nourishing product to restore moisture, strength and structure. Today we're discussing the power of hair masks.

Masks are like an elixir for our hair — especially after exposure to hair dryers, straighteners, chemical treatments, UV rays, and changes in temperature. Today let’s see what a hair mask is and why it is important to use it and how to apply it.

Should I use a hair mask or conditioner?

After shampooing it's important to further care for hair with a conditioner or mask:

Conditioner is used every time you wash your hair with shampoo. These two are the perfect couple, the must-haves of every shower!
Masks on the other hand are not meant for daily use. Thanks to their rich texture and the active ingredients that penetrate deep, hair masks perform a more intensive action than conditioner. To avoid weighing down your hair, they should not be applied every time you wash your hair, but they do, however, need to be used on a regular basis (such as once a week).

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How to apply a hair mask: step by step

Wash your hair and rinse it well.
Towel dry your hair to remove excess water.
Apply the hair mask on the lengths and ends of your hair, distributing it evenly.
Leave it on for the due amount of time, following the instructions on the package.
Rinse well!
Dry your hair gently, first by patting with a towel and then using a hair dryer at a moderate temperature. Or when you can, let your hair air dry: on top of reducing any stress on the hair fiber, you will save energy and reduce CO2 emissions.

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How long does the mask have to stay on?

Keep in mind that the leave-in time is crucial for the efficacy of hair treatments. Ten minutes is the average, but it could also be longer or less: always read the directions for use. Or find out here below which mask is best for you, based on how much time you have!

Plenty of Time

If you have plenty of time, you can try any type of mask. We recommend indulging in a full spa day to take care of your personal well-being. Click below and discover how to organize a SPA day at home.

Read our guide

Not a Lot of Time

On the other hand, if you only have time for a regular shower, choose a quick application mask such as The Quick Fix Circle: it is suitable for all hair types, and only takes three minutes to achieve an incredible effect!

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No Time

If you are always on the run, try The Restless Circle invisible mask! Once applied it turns transparent and no one will notice. That way you can leave the mask on while you are doing yoga, watching a movie or running errands.

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How much mask do I have to apply?

Applying a mask from your roots to your ends is not very common. Use the specific mask only where needed, to prolong the duration of the product. Putting too much on will not boost the results, just make it harder to rinse out. Put the right amount of mask on based on:

Your hair thickness
You hair length
Areas where you wish to apply the mask

Most masks are applied from the lengths to the ends. But there are also specific products for the scalp such as The Purity Circle, a black mask formulated for people with oily hair, or those who live in areas of high environmental pollution

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How often should I apply a hair mask?

Generally speaking, twice a month, but the correct frequency depends on the needs of your hair, the number of times you wash it and the products you use. The packaging of Davines masks provides the suggested directions for use if you're not sure.

But to be sure you are following the right hair routine as effectively as possible, give yourself time to experiment and “listen” to your hair: when it starts to feel brittle or in need of care, apply the treatment and mark the date on the calendar. Then, keep track of how things evolve to understand how long the effect of the mask lasts on your hair. It could be a week, or even longer.

If you still have doubts, your Davines stylist can help you understand how frequently you should use hair masks. The next time you go to the salon, don't hesitate to ask for advice.

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