The 21 Best Hair Masks for Dry Hair
Dry, brittle strands might be a sign your hair needs some TLC, and weather conditions as we head towards colder months could making it worse. Enter hair masks. Although all hair types can benefit from a good mask, these deep-conditioning, nutrient-rich formulas are especially great for dry hair, which can more easily split or break at the follicle.
"Hair masks and treatments are a great way of nourishing and softening dry hair, especially in the winter," says Sacha Mitic, hairstylist and co-founder of haircare line Sachajuan. Like face masks, hair masks are not necessarily for everyday use but as an added step when you notice your hair could use a boost. "Start by masking once a week, and adjust frequency depending on what your hair needs," recommends Mitic.
These 21 masks deeply condition even the most parched strands so hair looks and feels softer, shinier, and hair-commercial healthy.
This super-creamy formula from celebrity hairstylist Kristin Ess’s line clocks in under $15.
Kérastase is known for its hair masks, and this one is formulated exclusively to treat dryness.
With an intensity somewhere between a conditioner and a weekly mask, this in-between formula repairs and moisturizes without weighing down finer strands.
Devotees swear by this avocado-rich formula. At $3, you’ll be hard-pressed to find better results for a better value.
This nutrient-rich formula is safe for all dry hair types including chemically treated, relaxed, and keratin-treated.
Ouai founder slash celebrity hairstylist Jen Atkin polled fans on Instagram to find out if they preferred their mask in a tub or a tube. Tube won, and the popular, super-softening Treatment Masque was born.
Yep, this spray-on mask is applied onto dry strands, not wet. The "bond-building technology” works while you sleep to restore hair.
This one-minute mask proves deep conditioning doesn’t have to add extra time to your routine.
This clean formula relies on quinoa protein to help strengthen hair while shea butter, coconut oil, and avocado oil seal in moisture.
This made-for-you formula flips the traditional order of things. You apply the mask first to damp hair, then shampoo it out to reveal refreshed strands. Plus, each mask is customized to fit your hair type’s needs.
This mask harnesses the power of manuka honey along with shea butter and other natural ingredients for ultra-hydrating results.
That’s right—a sheet mask for your hair. The steam from your shower is what takes its hydrating properties to the next level.
Made with nutrient-rich goji berries and vitamin E, which helps protect hair with each use.
The name comes from its three key moisturizing ingredients: olive, meadowfoam, and sweet almond extracts.
This mask is made with the brand’s signature argan oil, and it’s offered in travel size and individual packets so you can get your mask on anywhere you go.
Safe for color-treated hair, super hydrating, and great at smoothing frizz: check, check, and check.
This cult-favorite formula derives its deep-conditioning powers from a combination of olive and avocado oils.
This deep treatment is formulated for curly hair, which is often prone to dryness.
Not only does this treatment mask smell like a spa, but it packs major hydration punch thanks to a patented deep-moisture complex featuring buriti oil.
Oats are the star of this overnight mask, which is worked into hair before bed and rinsed out in the morning.
If you’re in need of a color refresh, each of these masks is tinted to enhance color-treated hair. The longer you leave it on, the more intense the color will be.
Looking for more hair saviors? Up next: 10 Iconic Hair Products—and Their Super-Affordable Drugstore Dupes.
This piece was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
Lindy Segal is a freelance writer, editor, and content strategist based in New York City. She's originally from Atlanta, but she's sorry to report she doesn't have an accent. However, she does still have her taste for carbohydrates, love of losing sports teams, and fear of driving during rush hour. She's been in editorial for over eight years as a social media manager and writer covering beauty, fashion, and lifestyle at Glamour and People. Most recently, she was the women's editor at Express. These days, in addition toBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing , you can see her byline at places like Harper's Bazaar, Cosmopolitan, Ipsy, and WeWork. Both a skincare obsessive and a minimalist, she keeps her routine short, sweet, and effective—and she doesn't go a day without sunscreen. She's also deeply passionate about sustainability, and she strives to recommend products she truly believes are worth the investment. When she's not writing about the best and brightest beauty finds, she can usually be found hunting for vintage and secondhand treasures, attempting to find zen at a yoga class, bingeing Bon Appétit YouTube videos, or napping under her weighted blanket.
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