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Personal Care and Style
Hair Care
Hair Care Products
Homemade Hair Care Products
Hair Masks
How to Apply a Hair Mask Download Article Co-authored by Danielle Chiz
Last Updated: August 28, 2025 Fact Checked
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Applying the Mask Thoroughly
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Optimizing the Mask's Effects
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This article was co-authored by Danielle Chiz. Danielle Chiz is a Professional Hair Stylist and the Owner of bubu nyc Hair Artist Studio based in New York, New York. She specializes in hair coloring and styling as well as crafting a personalized hair experience. Danielle holds a BA in Biology from the University of Rochester. There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 379,376 times.
Hair masks can help hydrate and strengthen hair.[1]X Expert Source Michael Van den AbbeelProfessional Hair StylistExpert Interview To use a hair mask effectively, you need to apply it correctly. Hair masks should be applied to slightly damp hair and worked in from root to tip. The amount of time you leave your mask on depends on the type of mask. Hair masks take some experimentation to find the right amount for you and your hair type.
How to Do a Hair Mask
According to professional hair stylist Danielle Chiz, apply a hydrating hair mask to your hair while it’s damp so it will absorb evenly. Apply the mask to your hair from root to tips, working in sections, then comb your hair to distribute the mask. After 10–15 minutes, thoroughly rinse the mask out of your hair.
Steps
Method 1 Method 1 of 2:
Applying the Mask Thoroughly
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1 Wash and towel dry your hair. Before applying your hair mask, wash your hair as you normally would. Then, pat your hair dry with a towel so it's damp. Do not blow dry your hair before applying a hair mask. Your hair should be slightly wet when you apply your mask.[2]X Trustworthy Source Cleveland ClinicEducational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
2 Separate your hair into sections. It's easiest to apply a mask if you separate your wet hair into roughly three or four even sections. For example, try two sections on either side of your head, one in front, and one in back. Secure the sections with clips or hair ties and apply your mask to one section at a time.[3]XResearch source
Longer and thicker hair may require more sections. You may need to split it into 4-8 sections of hair.
If you have very short hair, however, sections may be unnecessary.
Wear on old t-shirt or wrap yourself in a towel to avoid getting any product on your nice clothes.
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3 Apply the mask from roots to tips. Start to massage the mask into your scalp. Then, work the mask downward to the tips of your hair. Try to disperse the mask evenly throughout your hair, using gentle massaging motions to apply the mask.[4]XResearch source
Pay extra attention to your tips. Tips are often prone to dryness and need extra care.
4 Comb your hair with the mask in place. After applying the mask to your full head of hair, take a medium or wide-toothed comb. Comb through your hair once with the mask in place. This will ensure the mask is more evenly distributed throughout your hair.[5]X Trustworthy Source American Academy of DermatologyProfessional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source
This may not work on all hair types. If you have curly hair, for example, you can comb through your hair just using your fingers or you can skip this step.
5 Rinse out the mask and condition your hair. After wearing your mask for the necessary timeframe, rinse it out in the shower. Then, apply conditioner as you normally would to rehydrate your hair.
Advertisement Method 2 Method 2 of 2:
Optimizing the Mask's Effects
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1 Cover your head with a shower cap and hot towel after applying the mask. Place the plastic shower cap over your hair after applying the mask. Next, wrap a hot towel around the shower cap. Leave it in place for 10 minutes. This will help the mask make more direct contact with your scalp, making it more effective overall.[6]XResearch source
2 Vary the times depending on the mask's purpose. How long you leave your mask on varies. If using a commercial mask, refer to the instructions manual. With a homemade mask, however, leave the mask in for different time periods depending on what you're trying to achieve.[7]XResearch source
For protein treatments, leave the mask in place for 10 minutes.
For hydrating treatment, leave the mask in place for five to 10 minutes.
Coconut oil masks should be left on for at least 30 minutes.
Olaplex masks should be left on for at least 10 minutes, but work better if left on longer. Strive to leave an olaplex mask on for 30 minutes or more.
3 Sleep in your hair mask if your hair is very dry. If you're trying to treat very dry hair, sleep in your hair mask. Place a towel, shower cap, or other covering over your hair and let the mask sit in overnight. In the morning, rinse the mask out in the shower. Your hair should be left noticeably softer and more moisturized.[8]XResearch source
4 Use less hair mask next time if your hair is greasy. Your hair should not be noticeably greasier after using a hair mask. If you notice your hair becomes greasy after using a hair mask, you probably used too much product. Next time, cut down on the amount you used and see if this fixes the issue.[9]XResearch source
If a hair mask makes your hair greasy even in small amounts, it may be the wrong hair mask for your hair type. Try using a mask designed for oily hair.
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Expert Q&A
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Question What is a keratin hair mask? Laura Martin Licensed Cosmetologist Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist based in Milledgeville, Georgia. She has been working as a hair stylist since 2007, and began a career as a cosmetology teacher in 2013. She worked as a teacher at Arrojo Cosmetology School, teaching cosmetology practices, hairstyling, and hair color application. She also brought her cosmetology expertise to her work as a staff writer for fashion blog Style Noted, writing pieces related to hair and fashion. She received an MFA in Creative Writing from Georgia College & State University, where she was also an English Teaching Fellow. Additionally, she received a BA in Creative Writing and Literature from New York University. Laura Martin Licensed Cosmetologist Expert Answer A keratin mask is one that contains keratin protein, the protein that your hair is made of. It will strengthen your hair. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 4 Helpful 26
Question Do I put a hair mask on wet or dry hair? Laura Martin Licensed Cosmetologist Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist based in Milledgeville, Georgia. She has been working as a hair stylist since 2007, and began a career as a cosmetology teacher in 2013. She worked as a teacher at Arrojo Cosmetology School, teaching cosmetology practices, hairstyling, and hair color application. She also brought her cosmetology expertise to her work as a staff writer for fashion blog Style Noted, writing pieces related to hair and fashion. She received an MFA in Creative Writing from Georgia College & State University, where she was also an English Teaching Fellow. Additionally, she received a BA in Creative Writing and Literature from New York University. Laura Martin Licensed Cosmetologist Expert Answer A mask should go on freshly-washed, damp hair. It won't absorb properly on dry hair or soaking wet hair. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 6 Helpful 32
Question When should I do a hair treatment? Laura Martin Licensed Cosmetologist Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist based in Milledgeville, Georgia. She has been working as a hair stylist since 2007, and began a career as a cosmetology teacher in 2013. She worked as a teacher at Arrojo Cosmetology School, teaching cosmetology practices, hairstyling, and hair color application. She also brought her cosmetology expertise to her work as a staff writer for fashion blog Style Noted, writing pieces related to hair and fashion. She received an MFA in Creative Writing from Georgia College & State University, where she was also an English Teaching Fellow. Additionally, she received a BA in Creative Writing and Literature from New York University. Laura Martin Licensed Cosmetologist Expert Answer After washing your hair is the best time to do a treatment. A weekend morning when you have time to let it process is ideal. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 11 Helpful 19
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References
↑ Michael Van den Abbeel. Professional Hair Stylist. Expert Interview
Co-authored by: Danielle Chiz Professional Hair Stylist This article was co-authored by Danielle Chiz. Danielle Chiz is a Professional Hair Stylist and the Owner of bubu nyc Hair Artist Studio based in New York, New York. She specializes in hair coloring and styling as well as crafting a personalized hair experience. Danielle holds a BA in Biology from the University of Rochester. This article has been viewed 379,376 times. 8 votes - 100% Co-authors: 8Updated: August 28, 2025 Views: 379,376 Categories: Hair MasksArticle SummaryX
Before you apply your hair mask, read the instructions carefully as many products need to be used in different ways. Then, wash and dry your hair with a towel before separating your hair into 2-3 sections so the mask is easier to rub in. When you apply the mask, begin at the roots and massage out towards your tips. To finish, comb your hair to ensure the mask is distributed evenly, leave the mask in for the necessary amount of time, and apply conditioner after you wash the mask out. To find out how to make your mask more effective, including why it's important to wear a shower cap, read on!Did this summary help you?YesNo
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Reader Success Stories
Sarah Love
Jul 23, 2017
"I followed the steps provided and now feel salon fresh. I have been applying masks in the wrong way in the past and they were less effective due to this, thank you very much."..." more
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Did this article help you?
Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Co-authored by: Danielle Chiz Professional Hair Stylist Co-authors: 8Updated: August 28, 2025 Views: 379,376100% of readers found this article helpful. 8 votes - 100% Click a star to add your vote
Sarah Love
Jul 23, 2017
"I followed the steps provided and now feel salon fresh. I have been applying masks in the wrong way in the past and they were less effective due to this, thank you very much."..." more
Esha Khan
Jan 22, 2023
"I read the instructions to prepare a hair mask and I applied it. It really works and my hair looks much better than before."..." more
Noureen Tanveer
Jan 24, 2019
"Recently I bought a hair mask, but used it wrong. This article helped me to use a hair mask in a better, more correct way."..." more
Sarah B.
Nov 5, 2024
"My hair feels so healthy, and it smells amazing!" Share yours! More success stories Hide success stories
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Download Article Co-authored by Danielle Chiz 
How toApply Clay on Hair 
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Co-authored by: Danielle Chiz Professional Hair Stylist This article was co-authored by Danielle Chiz. Danielle Chiz is a Professional Hair Stylist and the Owner of bubu nyc Hair Artist Studio based in New York, New York. She specializes in hair coloring and styling as well as crafting a personalized hair experience. Danielle holds a BA in Biology from the University of Rochester. This article has been viewed 379,376 times. 8 votes - 100% Co-authors: 8 Updated: August 28, 2025 Views: 379,376 Categories: Hair Masks Article SummaryX
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1 Wash and towel dry your hair. Before applying your hair mask, wash your hair as you normally would. Then, pat your hair dry with a towel so it's damp. Do not blow dry your hair before applying a hair mask. Your hair should be slightly wet when you apply your mask.[2] 
2 Separate your hair into sections. It's easiest to apply a mask if you separate your wet hair into roughly three or four even sections. For example, try two sections on either side of your head, one in front, and one in back. Secure the sections with clips or hair ties and apply your mask to one section at a time.[3] 
3 Apply the mask from roots to tips. Start to massage the mask into your scalp. Then, work the mask downward to the tips of your hair. Try to disperse the mask evenly throughout your hair, using gentle massaging motions to apply the mask.[4] 
4 Comb your hair with the mask in place. After applying the mask to your full head of hair, take a medium or wide-toothed comb. Comb through your hair once with the mask in place. This will ensure the mask is more evenly distributed throughout your hair.[5] 
5 Rinse out the mask and condition your hair. After wearing your mask for the necessary timeframe, rinse it out in the shower. Then, apply conditioner as you normally would to rehydrate your hair. Advertisement 
1 Cover your head with a shower cap and hot towel after applying the mask. Place the plastic shower cap over your hair after applying the mask. Next, wrap a hot towel around the shower cap. Leave it in place for 10 minutes. This will help the mask make more direct contact with your scalp, making it more effective overall.[6] 
2 Vary the times depending on the mask's purpose. How long you leave your mask on varies. If using a commercial mask, refer to the instructions manual. With a homemade mask, however, leave the mask in for different time periods depending on what you're trying to achieve.[7] 
3 Sleep in your hair mask if your hair is very dry. If you're trying to treat very dry hair, sleep in your hair mask. Place a towel, shower cap, or other covering over your hair and let the mask sit in overnight. In the morning, rinse the mask out in the shower. Your hair should be left noticeably softer and more moisturized.[8] 
4 Use less hair mask next time if your hair is greasy. Your hair should not be noticeably greasier after using a hair mask. If you notice your hair becomes greasy after using a hair mask, you probably used too much product. Next time, cut down on the amount you used and see if this fixes the issue.[9] 
Laura Martin Licensed Cosmetologist Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist based in Milledgeville, Georgia. She has been working as a hair stylist since 2007, and began a career as a cosmetology teacher in 2013. She worked as a teacher at Arrojo Cosmetology School, teaching cosmetology practices, hairstyling, and hair color application. She also brought her cosmetology expertise to her work as a staff writer for fashion blog Style Noted, writing pieces related to hair and fashion. She received an MFA in Creative Writing from Georgia College & State University, where she was also an English Teaching Fellow. Additionally, she received a BA in Creative Writing and Literature from New York University.