The best hair masks to shop, depending on your hair type

All a gal needs in life is a glass of wine, a scalding hot bath, a great book - and a great hair mask a-top your head, for that extra bit of self-care. Sounds like a good Friday evening, right? But choosing the right mask or best hair oil for your specific hair type is trickier than one might think because there's nothing worse than trying out a product and getting no results. Life is simply too short not to get a life-changing hair mask that rejuvenates your mane.

Luckily, you've stumbled upon a guide for the best hair masks money can buy. Rated and reviewed by members of the heat team, we talk you through the top products to shop online. From Garnier to Olaplex's hair treatments. Or how about the new kids on the block such as the pre-wash viral Hair Syrup? There's a plethora of options out there that can solve your every problem - well, almost every problem. Whether you're looking to hydrate, clarify or bond-build, we've got the goods.

heat's best hair masks to shop, at a glance:

Editor's Choice: Kérastase Resistance Masque Force Architecte, £41.40 on LookFantastic

Best hair mask for bleached hair: Olaplex No.8 Bond Intense Moisture Mask, £28 on LookFantastic

Best budget hair mask: Garnier Ultimate Blends Hair Food Papaya 3-in-1 Hair Mask, £3.99 on Boots

Our hair collects a lot of baggage day to day, such as styling products, outside debris, and pollution, as well as our own build-up like dandruff. Therefore, taking one or two evenings out of your week to add a hair mask into your wash routine can refresh your scalp and ends, and give them strength and nourishment to go forward (inspiring, right?) Nothing beats that fresh scalp feeling. Fwooah. (P.S. Keep reading for our FAQs section on the best haircare tips and tricks...)

Let's get started then on our best-of guide, with products you need to know about from Look Fantastic, Boots, The Body Shop and more. People with dry hair, oil hair, damaged hair or limp hair - roll up. Have we got a mask for you...

The best hair masks for every hair type: your ultimate guide

FAQs

Where to apply your hair mask?

When applying, it is best to focus on your mid-lengths and ends only (meaning the middle and end parts of your hair, not the top of your head). If you have thicker, coarser locks, you can get away with applying it on the scalp (it may even help lift your curls) but if you have thinner locks, applying a thick treatment like this on your roots will only create weight and grease over the coming days. It'll save you product applying just on your ends, and that's where we often need the most nourishment anyway. Read our full how to use a hair mask guide for more information.

Which hair mask is good for hair growth?

Any that advertises itself as a nourishing treatment that prevents breakage is your answer to growth. After all, what's the point in trying to grow your hair if your current strands are falling out anyway? Fix the root of the problem, people (literally). Also, look out for ingredients such as Spirulina, which is an algae-based plant that promotes hair growth (this is included in products such as the Christophe Robin Purifying Mask). As well as this, if you're looking to get thicker hair, as well as longer hair, read our how to get thicker hair guide here.

Can hair masks help damaged hair?

Absolutely. Combining one alongside a targeted shampoo and conditioner can revitalise your mane in a matter of weeks. Look out for ingredients with fatty acids, such as natural butters and oils (e.g. the Sol de Janeiro Triple Brazilian Butter Hair Repair Treatment), as well as products that are created as bond-builders, such as Olaplex No.8. You can even experiment with DIY hair masks using real fruits and oils for a nourishing boost.

Is a hair mask the same as conditioners?

Eloquently described by Coco & Eve, "a hair mask is like a conditioner on steroids". The difference between a conditioner and a hair mask is actually quite stark, so you can't just leave a conditioner on to set like a mask, because they work very differently. "A mask is designed to tackle concerns from the inside out for long-lasting improvements. Conditioner, on the other hand, has larger molecules, so it works a little more superficially – at the hair cuticle layer. Conditioners provide an instant hit of hydration and improvement in the way hair looks and feels. Masks are less about a fast fix, and more about cumulative results."

Can a hair mask be used as a leave-in conditioner?

Unless you have coarse curls, or afro hair, or the product has been specifically noted as working as a leave-in (such as the Garnier Ultimate Food masks), it's best to wash out your hair mask. If you have thinner tresses, masks can leave a waxy film that attracts dirt to the surface of your scalp. However, if you have thicker hair, it can actually help keep your curls hydrated without creating grease. It's all about what works for your hair type.

Ruby Barry is a Product Writer for heat, specialising in fashion and beauty. The team has nicknamed her “dupe queen”, as there’s not a product in the world she can’t find a cheaper alternative for.