Between hot tools, extreme temperatures, and chemical services, we put our hair through a lot of turmoil. At some point, this takes its toll in the form of dryness, split ends, and faded color. At this stage, an ordinary conditioner won’t do. But incorporating one of the best deep conditioning masks into your routine on a regular basis can make a huge difference.
As with other hair care products, choosing the right mask for your hair type will help you get the most out of it. According to Renee Pelc, stylist and owner of Gloss Salon in Chicago, knowing your ingredients is key. “Thick, dry hair needs jojoba oil as it’s similar to your natural oils. Curly hair responds well to coconut oil or avocado oil, while colored tresses need bioflavonoids to protect the hair from fading,” explains Pelc. “Over-processed hair needs vitamins E and B5, as well as nourishing agents like shea butter and deep penetrating babasu oil."
When it comes to actually using the product you choose, it's important to note that more is not always better. In fact, Pelc suggests applying a quarter-size amount and gradually adding more product as needed. “Emulsify the mask between your hands and work it through the hair in a raking motion before combing it through to ensure your hair is thoroughly saturated,” says Pelc. Masks can be left on anywhere between ten minutes to overnight, so there's definitely one out there that'll work with your routine. When it’s time to remove your mask, Pelc advises rinsing the hair until the water runs clear.
These seven deep conditioning hair mask are exactly the thing dry, damaged hair's been asking for.
1A Rich Italian Mask For Damaged, Over-Processed Hair
Davines Nounou Hair Mask, $13, Amazon
Davines products are produced in Italy, so it’s no surprise that the key ingredient in this reparative mask is tomato extract from a town called Brandis. Another star ingredient in this mask is jojoba oil, one of Pelc's recommendations for hydrating thick, dry hair. Leave this mask on for five to 10 minutes to revive dry, brittle, or over-processed locks.
2An Intense Mask That Fortifies Each Hair Fiber
ORIBE Gold Lust Transformative Masque, $66, Amazon
This splurge-worthy treatment deeply penetrates to restore each hair fiber with a results-driven formula comprised of white tea, baobob and jasmine extracts — as well as Oribe’s proprietary bio-restorative complex. It aims to improve elasticity and leave your hair with loads of body and shine. One reviewer even said, “nothing makes my hair feel this good.” Note that if you have fine hair, use sparingly so the rich formula doesn't weigh down your tresses.
3A Restoring Mask That Helps Minimize Breakage
Carol's Daughter Sacred Tiare Restoring Hair Mask, $14, Amazon
This anti-breakage mask is free of parabens, mineral oil, artificial colors, and petroleum. The all-natural, ultra-hydrating formula is comprised of coconut oil, shea butter, babassu oil, and tiare gardenia so not only is the hair restored, it'll smell like a vacation, too.
4A Korean Cult-Favorite Mask That Seals Split Ends
TONYMOLY Haeyo Mayo Hair Nutrition Pack, $16, Amazon
This nourishing hair pack contains yolk extracts, shea butter, and macadamia seed oil to improve the elasticity of the hair and seal split ends. You only need to leave it on for three minutes, so it’s the perfect mask if you’re short on time. And don't worry — the creamy formula smells like vanilla, not a jar of mayonnaise, despite the name.
5A Protein-Rich Mask That's Suitable For All Hair Types
Eva NYC Therapy Sessions Hair Mask, $11, Amazon
This nourishing mask takes the guess work out of figuring out which formula to use at it’s suitable for all hair types. Along with argan oil, the formula incorporates keravis protein — a vegetable-derived protein and silicone blend that was designed specifically to strengthen, fortify, and revitalize dry and damaged hair. Reviewers love how it deeply conditions without leaving behind a residue or film.
6A Weightless Mask That Won't Leave Fine Hair Limp
Living Proof Restore Mask Treatment, $23, Amazon
If you’ve struggled with finding a mask that won’t weigh down your hair without sacrificing results, this one’s for you. The weightless formula is made with nourishing tucuma seed butter and other lightweight hydrators. It restores the moisture to a healthy level while protecting tresses from future damage.
7A Coconut, Acai, & Yogurt Mask That Nourishes Curls
Project Beauty Curl Perfecting Yogurt Hair Mask, $24, Amazon
This creamy, rich treatment with yogurt protein, prebiotics, coconut oil, and keratin is formulated to repair curly hair that's dry or damaged. As an added bonus, quinoa keeps hair color fresh while repairing strands from within.
Bustle may receive a portion of sales from products purchased from this article, which was created independently from Bustle's editorial and sales departments.
