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16 Best Hair Masks For Shinier, Stronger Strands
Whatever your hair type, we know just the treatment you need
When you've only got ten minutes spare in your day, slathering on a hair mask might not be an obvious priority. There's TV to watch, snacks to eat, naps to be had. However, a good hair mask can be really worth the time, making a big, shiny difference to your crowning glory.
You might already be doing everything right: shampooing (but not too often), spritzing on the heat protectant diligently, and even massaging in a nightly hair growth serum (you show off). But if after all that, your hair isn't quite at TV-advert level, a mask is likely the missing link.
It would be fair to assume little thought is required in choosing a good hair mask, but there are actually a few things to consider before liberally applying the first one you find. Many of today’s best hair masks contain ingredients specifically designed to deal with certain hair issues - be it brittle strands, dryness or lacklustre colour.
First up, dryness. If your hair is dull and brittle, and snaps without stretching when pulled, you need a moisture mask. Many of these can be slathered on in-shower or applied and left to linger – perhaps even overnight – for maximum hydration.
Conversely, if your hair is stringy and overly elastic – like a chewed-up stick of gum – your strands actually need protein (regular bleachers will know what we mean here).
As Ryan Wilkes, stylist at Hershesons explains, 'A protein mask will strengthen and prevent breakage while moisture-based masks add hydration to dry hair. If a client is experiencing breakage or change of texture due to colouring or excessive heat, a protein mask will restore and replenish. If their hair is lacking hydration and shine, a moisture-based mask will hydrate and improve the vibrancy.'
When it comes to protein, you can have too much of a good thing – excess protein can leave hair stiff and breakable – so it’s important not to overdo it. While formulas of course vary in strength and effectiveness, using an at-home protein hair mask once a month is a good rule of thumb, whereas moisture masks can be used as often as you feel you need, and left on for as long as you like.
Below, see the masks that the ELLE beauty team use on repeat.
The Best Masks For Every Hair Type
Roberta Schroeder is the Senior Ecommerce Editor at Harper's Bazaar, ELLE and Esquire, overseeing shopping strategy and content across fashion, beauty, and travel. Roberta has reported on everything from market-leading skincare brands to the world’s most iconic fashion pieces, while also regularly updating a range of shopping guides, including LED masks, heritage cashmere brands and niche new dress brands to know.
Roberta has over fifteen years' experience in the luxury sector, spanning editorial consultancy, trend forecasting and journalism. Over the years, she has worked for global brands including Farfetch, Chanel, and Vogue.
When not testing beauty products, trialling trends and curating content that spotlights the very best in fashion and beauty, Roberta can usually be found trawling resale sites and vintage stores for a long-coveted designer find.
Follow Roberta on Instagram at @roberta__schroeder
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