Can I Use a Hair Mask with Conditioner?

In the hair care industry, there’s an overwhelming amount of hair products to choose from. And for many hair DIYers, conditioner and hair masks are the most confusing of them all. Do you use them together to double up on moisture, or should you only use one of them at a time? In this article, we’ll answer this question, and more, so you’ll know which product to use and when. Let’s get right into it! 

You Can Use a Hair Mask with Conditioner

You can use a hair mask and a conditioner together, but it’s essential to use them in the right order. The hair mask should come before the conditioner. The idea is that the hair mask injects tons of moisture and nutrients into your hair, and the conditioner locks all of it in.

If you use the conditioner first, the film it leaves behind could inhibit the absorption of the hair mask.

Here’s how to get a great hair mask and conditioner treatment:

  • Start by shampooing your hair with a clarifying shampoo that lifts away all of the dirt and excess oils from your hair. You want your hair to be super clean so that it can absorb all the nutrients in the hair mask. 

  • Apply the hair mask from the mid-lengths of your hair down to the ends. Avoid getting product on your roots because this will result in greasy hair and might even clog your hair follicles.

  • Wait around 15-30 minutes (or as the instructions say on the hair mask - each one is different), and thoroughly rinse the mask out with lukewarm water.

  • Follow up with your conditioner, applying it also from mid-lengths to ends. Wait for at least 3 minutes, and then rinse the conditioner out.

  • Style your hair as desired.

Do Hair Masks Replace Conditioner?

Hair masks do not replace conditioner - each product has its own set of uses and effects.

A conditioner simply does the regular job of conditioning the hair. It provides the light hydration and manageability you need after every wash. It also leaves behind a thin cast to keep your hair moisturized for days. However, a hair mask gives your hair deeper hydration and more substantial hair repair. There are hair masks for every hair problem; damage, thinning, frizz, you name it. 

But one thing these products have in common is the hydration and rejuvenation properties they provide.

Although both hair masks and conditioners provide hydration to the hair, if you use a hair mask every day in place of your conditioner, you could end up with over-moisturized strands that are limp and lifeless.

Hair Mask or Conditioner: Which Should You Use?

Conditioners can be safely used every time you wash your hair. However, if you feel like your hair is extra dry and frizzy, or needs extra care, you might want to use a hair mask before your conditioner to remedy those issues. Remember not to use a hair mask more than 2 times a week.

When it comes to hair care products, more is not necessarily better. In fact, it might even cause adverse effects. Excessive conditioning, or incorrectly using a hair mask or conditioner, may result in thinning, breakage, flat roots, and could diminish the effectiveness of other products. 

Interested in trying a deep conditioner to repair and restore dry, damaged hair? Try the Daily Dose Deep Conditioner - an ultra-moisturizing deep conditioner that works on all hair types! 

By following the tips in this article, you can enjoy softer and more manageable hair in no time without worrying about ruining your hair. We wish you the best as you give your hair the utmost care!

 

 

Author: Andrea Reyes

Andrea is a mother, wife, writer, and natural hair enthusiast of 15 years. Currently on her natural hair journey, she’s been trying countless products and techniques to understand and embrace her natural hair. She is the creator of NaturallyTextured.com, a new website featuring informative articles that share tips, tricks, and techniques aimed to help others learn to love their hair through proper hair care. She writes with the hope of making hair care easier to understand and implement.