Hair mask for curls

Which hair mask is best for your curls?

A hair mask provides more intensive care for your hair than a regular conditioner. This can be helpful if your curls feel dry, frizzy, damaged or less supple. Which mask is best for you depends, amongst other things, on the thickness, porosity and condition of your hair.

Not every type of curl requires the same level of care. A rich hair mask can make dry or thick curls softer and more manageable, but it can weigh down fine or wavy hair. So start with a small amount and see how your hair reacts.

A hair mask is particularly suitable if your curls are dry, porous or difficult to comb through.

Not sure whether a hair mask is right for your hair?
In that case, first use the Decision guide for your curl type.

Hair mask for dry and frizzy curls

Dry curls often need extra care along the lengths and at the ends. A nourishing hair mask can help make the hair feel softer and easier to detangle. Apply the mask mainly where the hair feels dry and, if you have an oily scalp, keep it away from the roots.

Frizz doesn’t necessarily mean you need to use more and more product. The way you wash, detangle, style and dry your hair also makes a difference. So combine a hair mask with a simple routine that suits your hair.

Hair mask for fine or wavy curls

Fine or wavy hair can quickly become weighed down by a rich hair mask. You should therefore not automatically use an intensive treatment with every wash. A small amount applied to the ends, or alternating with a lighter conditioner, may be enough.

Do you find that your hair feels flat, greasy or stringy after using the mask? If so, use less product next time, leave it on for a shorter time, or choose a lighter treatment.

Moisturiser or protein for curly hair?

Some hair masks are primarily designed to provide softness and hydration, whilst other products also contain proteins. Products containing protein may be suitable for curls that feel limp, porous or damaged. However, too much protein can actually leave some hair types feeling stiff or dry.

If necessary, alternate a protein-rich treatment with a gentler, moisturising product. Don’t change several products at once, so that you can better assess which ones your hair responds well to.

How do you use a hair mask for curls?

1. Wash your hair with a shampoo that suits your scalp and hair.
2. Gently squeeze the excess water out of the pieces.
3. Work a small amount of hair mask through the lengths and ends.
4. Gently detangle the hair with your fingers or a suitable comb or brush.
5. Leave the mask on for the time specified in the product instructions.
6. Rinse the hair thoroughly.
7. You can then apply a leave-in conditioner or styling product if you wish.

Do not use more product than necessary. A thicker layer does not automatically give a better result and may make the hair feel heavy.

How often do you use a hair mask?

How often you use a hair mask depends on your hair. Dry, thick, coloured or damaged curls may need intensive care more often than fine or easily weighed-down hair.

For many people, once a week or once every couple of washes is a practical starting point. Ultimately, though, let the feel and appearance of your own hair be your guide.

Conditioner or hair mask?

A conditioner is designed for regular use after washing. A hair mask is usually richer in texture and is used when the hair needs extra care. You don’t need to use both a conditioner and a hair mask every time you wash your hair.

For fine hair, a hair mask can be used instead of conditioner when extra care is needed. For very dry or thick hair, applying a small amount of leave-in conditioner after rinsing can sometimes be beneficial.

A complete hair care range for curly hair

A hair mask is just one part of your routine. For a complete overview of shampoo, conditioner, leave-in treatment, cream, mousse and gel, you can also check out all natural hair products for curls Take a look. This page is your one-stop guide to our care and styling products for wavy and curly hair.

Not sure yet in what order to use the products? Then read our Natural curly hair routine for beginners. There, we explain in five clear steps how to wash, care for, style and dry your hair.

Selected from our hair salon

When selecting a hair mask, we don’t just look at popular ingredients or attractive packaging. Ease of use, the richness of the product and the results it delivers on different hair types are also key factors.

Not sure which mask is right for your curls? Then tell us a bit about the thickness and condition of your hair, your current routine and any issues you’re having. That way, we can offer you more tailored advice.

Frequently asked questions about hair masks for curly hair

Should you apply a hair mask to wet hair?

Most hair masks are applied to wet or towel-dried hair after washing. Always follow the instructions for use provided with the product in question.

Can a hair mask weigh down curls?

Yes. Fine or wavy hair in particular can become weighed down by a rich hair mask or using too much of it. In that case, use less product or choose a lighter hair care product.

Do you use conditioner or a hair mask first?

A hair mask can usually be used instead of conditioner. It is not always necessary to apply both products one after the other.

Is a protein mask suitable for all types of curls?

No. Protein treatments may be suitable for limp, porous or damaged hair, but using them too often can leave your hair feeling stiff. If necessary, alternate with moisturising treatments.

Can I use a hair mask every time I wash my hair?

This is possible with some hair types, but isn’t necessary for everyone. Check whether your hair feels soft and well-cared-for, or whether it feels heavy and lifeless.