How to Wear a Hair Mask to Get Long, Luscious Locks

One of the best things you can do for your confidence is take good care of your hair. While we may not all religiously practice hair care, it’s as important as skin care. Like our skin, our strands are a living, breathing organism. So just like you would put on a sheet mask to hydrate your skin, you should apply a hair mask every so often. When I tell my friends this, they often wonder not only why they should apply one, but also ask how to wear a hair mask. 

First of all, you should wear a hair mask because these products help keep hair healthy and protected. This, in turn, will make your hair feel silky smooth. As a beauty editor, I first learned about hair masks when I worked on a hair cycling story in 2023. Though they’ve been around for many years, some people may still not be familiar with hair masks. And how can you know how to apply a hair mask properly if you don’t know what they are?

So, below, I’m sharing a guide on how to wear hair masks to get the most benefits.

How to Wear Hair Mask

Since many people still don’t know what a hair mask is, I figured I’d start by explaining that. This’ll help hair mask users appreciate how the product works.

What Is A Hair Mask?

In the simplest terms, hair masks are deep conditioning treatments that provide concentrated vitamins and nutrients to the strands of your hair. In more poetic terms, a hair mask is like a spa day for your hair. These products deliver a more intense treatment compared to regular conditioners, working their magic by penetrating deep into each strand. 

Depending on your hair type and needs, hair masks can target specific concerns—like hydration, damage repair, or scalp care. Unlike conditioners, which primarily coat the surface of strands, masks work to restore and nourish hair from the outside in. Whether you’re battling damaged hair, dryness, or frizz, finding the right hair mask for your hair type is usually a game-changer.

How Do Hair Masks Work?

Hair masks are designed to hydrate, repair, and protect your hair. Hydrating hair masks, for instance, infuse moisture into hair types that skew dry. Oil-based masks, on the other hand, can smooth and seal strands for a shinier and less-frizzy finish. Other types of masks focus on cleansing and revitalizing the scalp, which helps hair grow healthier straight from the root. 

To be unequivocal, hair masks are a lot different than conditioners. They’re thicker in consistency and usually have more potent formulas. This is what allows them to sit on the hair longer and deliver nutrients where they’re needed most. When you leave the mask on, you’re giving your hair a chance to absorb all the hair-loving ingredients for softer, smoother, and healthier strands.

Now that we got the basics out of the way, let’s get into our step-by-step guide for how to wear a hair mask.

How To Apply Hair Mask

Step 1: Choose the right mask for your hair type.

Hair masks are not one size fits all, so you’ll need to pick one that suits your specific hair needs. For example, if you’ve noticed that your hair has been feeling a bit dry, reach for a hydrating hair mask. If you have curly hair or want to add a bit of frizz control, we suggest oil-based masks. For damaged hair, opt for a strengthening mask packed with proteins like keratin. 

Conversely, we recommend avoiding products that weigh down your hair—especially if you have fine or oily strands. You should always read the label to ensure you’re using the best product for your hair type.

Step 2: Prep your hair.

Regardless of which hair mask you choose or the hair type you have, you’ll want to start with clean, wet hair. Shampooing first ensures you’ve removed any product buildup or oil that could prevent the mask from penetrating. As a runner, I like to apply the mask before logging miles. The heat I generate during my workout helps open up hair follicles, allowing the product to absorb even more effectively. Whether you’re running or simply wrapping your hair in a shower cap, warmth helps maximize the benefits.

(Confession: I have been applying my hair mask to dirty hair. My hair feels softer, for sure, but I did worry that I was washing off all the goodness. From here on out, I’ll apply it to clean hair.)

Step 3: Apply the mask evenly.

Once your strands are clean, section your wet hair into manageable parts to ensure the mask is distributed evenly. Start from the mid-lengths and work your way down to the ends, where hair tends to be the driest. Use a wide-toothed comb to gently detangle and spread the product without breaking strands. If your mask is safe for the scalp, massage it into your roots to nourish your hair follicles and promote growth. Tip: Start combing your ends and work your way up so that you don’t exacerbate tangles.

Step 4: Let the mask sit.

Once applied, leave the mask on for the recommended amount of time—most masks advise leaving them on for 10 to 30 minutes. For an extra boost, cover your hair with a shower cap to trap heat and enhance absorption. This step allows the deep conditioning treatment to penetrate the strands more effectively. Use this time to relax, meditate, or even tackle chores while the mask works its magic. I like to scroll social or watch an episode of my favorite funny show.

Step 5: Rinse thoroughly.

When you hear your timer, rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water. Make sure to remove all residue, as leftover product can weigh down your hair. I like to finish off with cool water to seal the cuticle and lock in moisture. If your hair feels softer, smoother, and shinier, you’ll know the mask did its job. (At least that’s how I know that my mask worked.)

Our Favorite Hair Masks

Verb Hydrating Mask

We’re big fans of Verb hair products around here. We did a review of a ton of their products and loved this hydrating hair mask. It smells great and has a thick consistency. The only thing we have to note is that it’s not a great product for fine hair because it contains dimethicone.

Available at Verb

Oribe Moisture & Control Deep Treatment Hair Mask

Oribe products tend to be on the pricier side, but they are worth the investment. This mask is perfect for people who have dry hair, since it contains coconut oil, shea, cupuacu, murumuru, mango seed butters, and sweet almond oil.

Available at Sephora

Mizani Moisture Fusion Deep Conditioning Hair Mask

As its name indicates, this mask deeply penetrates your strands. It contains argan oil and honey, which both offer otherworldly moisture to your hair to make it shine and move freely. This mask is great for all hair types, but is especially great for waves and curls. 

Available at Sephora