Forget all the nonsense you’ve heard about this precious cosmetics product, here’s a true or false to teach you how to use your hair mask properly.
 
Hair masks should preferably be applied to the mid-lengths and ends: True
Firstly because your roots rarely need special treatments. But also because applying a mask to the roots tends to weigh down your hair. “A mask should be used when hair is coloured, dry or damaged. Basically, when hair is fragile and begging for treatments.” The mask should only applied to the fragile sections, usually the mid-lengths and ends.
 
The mask should be left on overnight for a deep-reaching result: False
This is an old wives’ tale that no hairdresser will tell you now. “Leaving it on all night is over the top and does not make the mask more effective.” Cosmetics are quite modern today so there’s no need for you to go to bed next to your dearly beloved wearing a hair mask wrapped in a towel. “If you really want to optimise the result of your mask, leave it on for 10 minutes, but no longer.”
 
Once you’ve applied the mask, you should comb your hair: True
For your mask to be effective, it needs to be evenly distributed. Using a comb is a good option. “Apply the mask and comb through with a wide-toothed comb. This will help distribute the mask evenly. But avoid using a fine-toothed comb, this could end up removing the product you’ve just applied to your hair.” If you don’t have a comb handy, apply the mask using your fingers, being careful to distribute it section by section.
 
For an optimum result, the hair mask is applied after each wash: False
Just apply it when necessary! The mask’s effect only lasts one wash as you wash it out each time you wash your hair. “If your hair is very fragile, it is worth applying a mask after each wash. But if you are in a hurry and use a nourishing shampoo anyway, there’s no need to use a mask each time.”
 
Hair masks tend to weigh down fine hair: True
Fine hair tends to be flat and lacking in volume. Hair masks are therefore not always the best option as they can end up weighing down your hair. “This is why there are masks designed for fine hair. They take into account the hair’s specific characteristics.” If you simply have to use a mask, make sure you apply it to the mid-lengths and ends only and leave it on for a maximum of 2-3 minutes.
 
© DR © Jean Louis David