With so many hair products on the market, it can be overwhelming to ascertain what works and what doesn't. During the past 20 years of my experience using different hair products I've become a virtual connoisseur of gels, shampoos, conditioners, etc. Today I want to share with you my experience with hair masks in particular. In the past, hair masks were oil-based and potentially damaging; when used too often they stifled the scalp and made the hair limp, leaving it difficult to style. Nowadays, water-based masks are lighter, with added nutrients that are safe for the scalp, leaving your hair in mint condition. Here are a list of the best hair masks at various price points. All should help considerably in restoring you mane to its rightful, virginal state... well, almost.
Love conditioner by Davines
When I lived in LA some 12 years ago, I used and loved the Davines color line, the entirety of which has since improved, with a focus on making hair feel loved. Love by Davines is the first mask I want to write about. The packaging is sleek and easy to hold in the shower. In other words, it's not a weirdly shaped chunky tub that slips from the hand easily, potentially causing you to waste some of this precious product!. Its effect on color-treated hair is amazing, because of its superb conditioning qualities. It also works great on thick, kinky hair that requires a treatment with strong conditioning agents. Although it's a rich mask, it rinses easily, leaving the scalp free of product buildup and your hair smelling great for days (literally)!
Age Recharge by Kérastase
Well my darlings, if you want a product that you will be hooked on for life, this is it. It's my "go to" product for blonds... it helps enormously with detangling and preventing further breakage, with extremely consistent results. If you have very dry hair I recommend using it as a weekly treatment as a regular conditioner. Remember, a little product goes a long way. Out of the vast amount of masks that Kérastase offers, I would say that this is the best and only one I fully
Moroccan Oil hair mask
This mask took the country by storm with it's promise to condition frizzy hair and leave the driest hair full of moisture. I am here to say it delivered as promised. Unlike the MoroccanOil itself, the hair mask is not too heavy, and is buttery in consistency. After use it leaves the hair in better shape to withstand hot tools and the sun, and it's easily one of the best-smelling masks on the market. I look for any excuse to use this product; I even use it as a styling cream on the ends of curly hair.
Biolage Intensive Therapy mask
This is a product that I'd suggest to women across the US, since it's so easy to find. It's an intensive treatment for stressed hair that can be also used as a daily conditioner. Plus, it's affordable—which in this economy is a blessing. However, I would recommend a little heat for this treatment to work as well as with the previous masks. Towel-dry your hair and place a plastic disposable shower cap on your head. Follow by heating your hair through the cap with a blow dryer.
Tip:Keep in mind that hair masks in general should not be left on the scalp overnight unless directed. The reason for this is its potential to irritate the scalp when left for long periods. Before using any mask I recommend you shampoo and towel dry your hair, removing about 50 percent of the water prior to usage. Before applying the mask your hair should feel damp to the touch—not dripping wet and not too dry.
Also, take your favorite mask with you on vacation, and use it before entering the ocean or pool. Take it to the gym and use it in the steam room for an even deeper treatment. Basically, you should never leave home without a small jar of mask to help save your hair from the harsh elements that are determined to harm it!.
BONUS TREATMENTHomemade treatments
Who does not love the best of all worlds. This is not only affordable, you can use all organic fruit and oil insuring you are getting the best Making your own hair treatment. First whisk one egg white, half an ounce of lemon juice and half an ounce olive oil in a bowl. Then crush five mint leaves and an Avocado. Combine all ingredients and whisk for five minutes. I recommend shampooing with Green Tea Clarifying Shampoo by Aubrey Organics. Start by applying your treatment to clean partially towel dried hair, or as an intense treatment you can use the treatment on clean dry hair. Leave in your hair for five minutes and then rinse well. If you have stressed thirsty hair leave in for ten minutes and then rinse well. This treatment is so rich you will need to shampoo afterwards, trust me. When you are done, you would be amazed at how your hair will feel and the softness and shine will last for days!!
FOR VIRGIN HAIR:
Ripe organic avocado: Famous for its moisturizing properties
Virgin organic olive oil: Used all over the world in many home hair-care recipes for soothing the cuticle
Organic egg: A fantastic source of protein
Fresh mint: Great for preventing static on conditioned hair
Organic fresh lemon: A natural hair-brightener **this option should not be used on color-treated hair**
