If You Haven't Been Feeling Your Hair Lately, These Hair Masks Will Change That

"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."

If you're a fan of all things skincare, I assume you're already a proud member of the face masks club. But if you haven't yet found a hair mask to incorporate into your routine, you should find one ASAP.

Hair masks are super-concentrated deep-conditioning treatments designed to target and correct a specific problem, says hairstylist Paul Cucinello. They transfer key active ingredients deep into the hair and/or scalp in a set amount of time. Hair masks are heavier than regular conditioners and give the hair a little something extra, adds NYC-based hairstylist Sadah Saltzman. Using one will make your hair feel stronger and appear healthier.

Best Hair Masks

With so many brands on the market, it can be hard to determine which ones are worth your wallet. But before diving into some of the best masks tested and selected by editors and experts, read on for a few pointers to keep in mind.

What to consider

Key ingredients

Different masks will have different formulas with various active ingredients. That said, there are several that experts say are especially helpful. For example, board-certified dermatologist Lauren Penzi, MD, is a big fan of hydrating oils such as argan, coconut, avocado, and olive oil because they're rich in fatty acids and vitamins that penetrate the hair shaft to moisturize and soften hair.

Similar to how hyaluronic acid works in skincare, the popular skincare ingredient has similar benefits for hair. "[It's] a powerful humectant that attracts and retains moisture," says Dr. Penzi. She also gives the green light to glycerin for similar reasons and adds that shea butter, too, can aid in sealing moisture and adding shine. Additionally, antioxidants such as vitamin E "protect hair from the damaging effects of free oxygen radicals, which are unstable forms of oxygen that can damage cellular structures," explains board-certified dermatologist Brendan Camp, MD.

Hair type

Investing in a mask that's appropriate for your hair type is key to getting the best results. If you have thinner hair, you'll need lighter moisturizing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or jojoba oil, says Dr. Camp. He adds that those with thicker, more textured hair, may benefit more from heavier moisturizing ingredients, like shea butter and cocoa butter, to provide shape and prevent frizz. "By addressing your hairs' specific concerns and providing the necessary, tailored nourishment and hydration, you can more easily maintain the integrity of your hair and prevent damage," says Dr. Penzi.

Sulfate-free

Many sulfates (like sodium lauryl sulfate and sodium laureth sulfate) remove dirt, oil, and buildup. However, these ingredients have their downsides. "They can harshly strip the natural oils, leading to dryness and brittleness," says Dr. Penzi. "A sulfate-free hair mask avoids this issue by providing gentle cleansing without compromising the natural moisture balance of the hair and scalp."

Usage

Masks are best applied to clean, damp hair, says Cucinello. He recommends using a tool to help ensure even application and saturation, like a wide-toothed comb (try the Diane Extra Wide Tooth Shampoo Comb) for weak, curly, or damaged hair. A specialty brush (like The Feel Good Brush by Spornette) is good for medium, thick, coarse, or long hair. Before you apply a hair mask, make sure you have enough time to allow it to penetrate your strands properly. Follow the brand’s instructions as far as timing goes, keeping in mind that sometimes you actually can overdo it, says Cucinello. Saltzman suggests applying a mask and putting the hair into a braid or bun while working out, which lets the mask penetrate deeply while also keeping the hair off of your face (multitasking!).

How we selected

For the past two years, Women’s Health editors, including senior beauty editor Danielle Jackson and editorial assistant Sabrina Talbert, tested the bestselling, most popular, and top-rated hair masks for dry hair. Our team consulted two hairstylists, two dermatologists, and a group of anonymous testers. We then evaluated thousands of customer reviews and ratings to narrow down the best hair masks for a wide range of haircare needs and preferences.

Below, see a list of the best hair masks, tested and recommended by Women's Health editors, dermatologists, and hair stylists.

No 8 Bond Intense Moisture Mask

Over the past few years, Women's Health editors have tested and become loyal fans of several hair masks. This mask from Olaplex took our top spot because testers of all hair types were able to reap the benefits. It's also highly favored amongst multiple hair stylists and salons. Plus, it's more affordable than several options on this list and still delivers on quality.

Testers love this mask for its use of special technology to rebuild broken bonds in the hair, resulting from processes like coloring and bleaching. It also adds moisture, shine, and pairs best with some of the other damage-repairing products in Olaplex's lineup. In fact, the website suggests that you'll get the best results when using it with the No.0 Intensive Bond Building Hair Treatment and No.3 Hair Perfector.

In addition to the formula, testers also appreciate how much this mask reduces frizz. One user says the product serves as a reset in her weekly routine by adding strength and shine.

Read More: Best Bonding Treatments

Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Treatment Masque

Calling all curly girls! Beloved by many, this mask features Jamaican black castor oil, which can moisturize the hair while promoting and stimulating growth. Users say this formula does wonders restoring damaged and chemically-treated hair. Many also call out that it reduced their shedding—even WH editors approve.

"This mask is one of my favorites from Shea Moisture because it softens and adds shine to my curls," says editorial assistant Sabrina Talbert. "I stopped heat-styling years ago, but still have some damage that this mask has helped a lot with over the years." She notes that some people may not like the smell, as it's quite similar to clay or play dough. But if you can look past that, the benefits are there.

Treatment Mask for Fine and Medium Hair

This mask hydrates and softens while using hydrolyzed keratin to strengthen strands and prevent them from future damage. Testers enjoy its floral scent and say that the formula adds shine and moisture to their hair.

It also contains shea butter and panthenol, making it a great investment for people of all hair types. Some users with color-treated or damaged hair note that over time they had less split ends and breakage. Still, others call out that this didn't do the best job at treating frizz.

Intense Hydrating Mask

This rich, creamy mask from Moroccanoil is infused with argan oil to nourish and replenish moisture in hair. It's also designed to improve the elasticity and manageability of your hair, too. Saltzman loves the shine it adds, and testers feel the same. Users who have tried other products from this brand in the past can't get enough of the signature scent, which is a mix of amber and sweet florals.

Unlike some other masks on this list, this one should be applied to towel-dried hair. From there, comb the mask through, and leave it on for five to seven minutes before rinsing. The idea of drying your hair to wet it again might be a longer process, but testers say it's worth it.

Heaven in Hair Moisturizing Deep Conditioner

Many people with waves, curls, and coils are no stranger to the high quality of DevaCurl products. And according to Cucinello, this is a great option for anyone with those hair types. The antioxidant butter blend gently nourishes and strengthens curls without weighing them down or tightening them up too much.

Bonus: It minimizes frizz, which is something our testers appreciate. Some note that their hair looked healthier and felt stronger after just a few uses. However, a few testers who have been using DevaCurl for years say the newer version of this mask doesn't work as well for them as it used to.

Don't Despair Repair Deep Conditioning Mask

According to Cucinello, this deep conditioner works like a dream. Its key ingredients (rosehip oil, algae extract, almond oil, and vitamin B) make it perfect for all hair textures, lengths, and conditions, he says. This product aims to decrease breakage after two uses, and according to our testers, it delivers on its promise. The formula healed their brittle hair and added volume, shine, and moisture. It also smells amazing, testers say.

Side note: If you're looking for a protein treatment to add to your weekly or bi-weekly routine, Talbert suggests trying the brand's Don't Despair Repair Rice Water Protein + Moisture Strengthening Treatment.

Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Masque

Add shiny hair to the laundry list of apple cider vinegar’s benefits. This ACV treatment lowers the PH of the hair, creating an ultra-smooth texture with mirror-like shine. Other active ingredients such as sunflower seed oil protects hair color. Meanwhile, smart proteins fill in damaged areas along the surface of the hair.

Testers also seemed to benefit from the aloe vera in the formula, as many of them call out how soft and silky it made their hair. One thing to keep in mind: if you're not a fan of apple cider vinegar you may not like the scent of this mask.

Miracle Hair Mask

This multi-purpose mask is gentle enough to be used as a daily conditioner but intense enough to use as a weekly deep-conditioning treatment. You just change up the amount you use and processing time, says Saltzman.

Boasting tons of great feedback from our testers, it brings damaged or over-processed hair back to life. Users agree that it helps them detangle their hair with ease while adding vibrancy and shine. If you decide to make the investment, you can also expect less frizz, more elasticity, and more body.

Color Extend Blondage Express Anti-Brass Hair Mask

Don’t be deterred by the bold purple pigment in this mask—it will turn blonde hair from brassy to bright after one use and won’t turn your hair purple in the process. Plus, it softens dry, brittle strands, according to our testers.

This is perfect as a once-a-week replacement to the Redken Color Extend Blondage conditioner. Just leave it on for five to 10 minutes, and you've got brighter hair. While you should always follow the directions of your products, anecdotally, some users left it in for longer and were pleased with the results.

Brass Off Custom Neutralization Hair Mask

Our brunette testers are obsessed with the budget-friendly Brass Off Custom Neutralization Hair Mask from Matrix. This blue-hued formula counteracts unwanted orange tones in just five minutes. Think of it like a toner that also deeply conditions your hair. Cucinello advises using this mask once a week max to prevent over-coloring the hair.

It contains notes of nectarine, raspberry, and passionfruit—a quality that many users rave about. Similar to what can happen with purple shampoos, conditioners, and masks, they warn that this can stain your skin.

Ghost Hair Mask

It’s hard to find a mask that’s light enough for super-fine hair, but testers say this nourishing, feather-weight formula is just right. It boosts shine, smooths frizz, and repairs hair without any residue, says Cucinello. The vegan formula contains moringa oil and has a grapefruit-oatmeal scent, which users enjoy.

This mask works well on all hair types, but it's especially helpful for those with dry or damaged strands. It can be used once a week following your shampoo and conditioner. Work it through the mid-lengths of your hair and rinse after seven minutes for the best results.

Discipline Maskeratine Mask

If you suffer from frizz (especially in the humid summer months), give this powerhouse a try. It was specifically formulated to control and virtually eliminate frizz, says Cucinello. It also uses the brand's signature Morpho-Kératine Complex—a mix of ingredients designed to protect hair from humidity and control erratic strands without restricting natural texture. Testers love this product, and so do WH editors.

Health and fitness director Jacqueline Andriakos considers herself a devotee to this mask. "I love that you only need to leave it in for five minutes, so I use it basically as my conditioner one to two days a week," she says. "I have thick, long, extremely tangly hair, and this mask makes a brush run through my hair like butter." She adds that while it's a bit pricey, a little bit of product goes a long way.

Superbalm

This is a pre-shampoo mask that deep cleans the scalp to help prevent flakes. The mix of salicylic acid, extra-virgin coconut oil, lavender oil, and chamomile blue oil works to break down dead skin cells and remove oil and product buildup so it can easily be washed away.

If you have dry, flaky scalp or are prone to buildup, this one is for you. One tester with psoriasis found that the formula was gentle on her sensitive skin. Still, a few users say that this mask weighed their hair down afterwards. Some suggest leaving it on for less time than what's suggested as a result.

Antisocial Overnight Bond-Building Dry Hair Mask

Apply this mask before bed for the ultimate beauty sleep. The innovative product repairs and protects hair from the inside out, says Cucinello. The dry spray strengthens hair by bonding to its natural proteins and conditions it with an amino acid complex.

Saltzman loves that you don’t have to rinse it out in the morning (time-saver!) and that it’s good for all hair textures. Plus, it controls frizz and leaves hair looking healthier, testers say. They appreciate how lightweight it is and say it's the perfect mid-week refresh. Most users love the smell, but others find it somewhat overwhelming.

Meet the experts

• Paul Cucinello is a celebrity stylist and owner of Cucinello Studio in New York City.

• Sadah Saltzman is a hairstylist at Salon AKS in New York City.

• Brendan Camp, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York.

• Lauren Penzi, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York.

Shop other hair care products we love

Best Shampoos For Oily Hair | Best Shampoos For Hard Water | Best Deep Conditioners | Best Bonding Treatments | Best Clarifying Shampoos | Best Eczema Shampoos | Best Shampoos For Hair Loss

*Additional reporting by Dori Price

You Might Also Like

• Jennifer Garner Swears By This Retinol Eye Cream

• These New Kicks Will Help You Smash Your Cross-Training Goals