Everything You've Wanted to Know About DIY Hair Masks
Self-care is one of the best ways to relax, de-stress, and check in with yourself. A home salon day can improve your hair's health and radiance and make you feel your best from the inside out.
Pampering your hair doesn't need to be expensive. The most beneficial hair care ingredients are often found right in your cupboard or pantry! You may be surprised to learn that making your own hair mask isn't nearly as daunting as it sounds. All it takes is a few ingredients and several minutes to whip up a hair mask that's tailored to your hair's specific needs. Whether you need a DIY natural hair mask for dry hair or a DIY mask for damaged hair, you'll find everything you've ever wanted to know, along with some awesome hair mask recipes, in this RevAir blog post!
RevAir is delivering self-care to hair everywhere. Let's answer all the questions about the best DIY hair masks, DIY hair mask ingredients, and the benefits of working in a much-needed at-home salon day.
DO DIY HAIR MASKS REALLY WORK?
Short answer: Yes! Hair masks are more than just a trend - they're a great part of maintaining your style at home. Whether you're between salon appointments or your hair is simply in need of a refresh and a little TLC, an extra bit of pampering is always a good idea.
From 15- to 20-minute masks to overnight rejuvenating treatments, DIY hair masks come in a variety of formulas. The science behind the magic is giving your hair the extra time it needs to soak up those key nutrients. Rather than a quick conditioner routine on wash day, your hair gets the added benefit of a deep conditioning treatment. DIY hair masks help moisturize and strengthen your hair by improving absorption. Mask treatments are especially important for hair that is color-treated, as well as dry, damaged, and heat-treated hair.
Using gentle ingredients is key when creating a DIY hair mask at home. After all, you want your magic recipe to stay on your hair and scalp long enough to properly restore and replenish those damaged locks. That doesn't mean you need to source the most exotic hair care ingredients from around the world. Think simple when it comes to creating your ideal mask. The best hair mask ingredients are all-natural and might already be within your reach.
WHAT ARE THE BEST DIY HAIR MASKS FOR CURLY HAIR?
When searching for the best DIY hair mask recipe for curly hair, the hunt for the right ingredients may seem a little daunting. We've taken the guesswork out of the DIY process. Spoiler alert: There are no DIY fails on this list! These are the best hair masks for curly hair and are based on key ingredients designed to nourish, strengthen, hydrate, and protect.
Let's start with the ingredients:
1.) AVOCADO
Avocados aren't just for your family's favorite gauc! The rich omega-3s in this amazing butter fruit bring out the shine in curly hair. Avocados keep curls soft, moisturized, and radiant - without leaving behind any greasy residue.
2.) YOGURT
Another great shine enhancer is yogurt. The probiotics contained in plain yogurt give an added boost to your hair's health and resilience.
3.) COCONUT, OLIVE, and JOJOBA OILs
All curly hair needs a list of go-to oils. These hydrating heroes of the hair world deliver amazing, luxurious moisture to dried-out and damaged locks. Pick your favorite oil or experiment with different types for your DIY hair mask.
4.) GLYCERIN AND HONEY
Every hair mask needs humectants. These ingredients attract moisture and give your curls volume, bounce, and shape.
5.) APPLE CIDER VINEGAR (ACV)
ACV is one of the best all-natural beauty ingredients. This key ingredient fights frizz when added to a DIY hair mask.
"Our cuticles need an acidic pH to be able to lie down flat and not frizz and ACV is the best ingredient to do that," say health and beauty experts. "It also helps remove any buildup of products, especially for those of you who have totally ditched shampoos."
6.) BANANAS
When getting your curls to behave, bananas are your friends! They work well for slightly loosening tighter curls to make your hair easier to style. However, if you're trying to maintain your curl shape, you may want to go a bit light on the bananas.
7.) EGGS
Eggs contain vitamins A and E, biotin, and folate - all ingredients that help keep hair thick and healthy.
DIY Hair Mask Recipes
Now, onto the recipes.
There's a mask for every purpose on our curly hair treatment list! We like to keep it simple with these easy DIY hair mask recipes perfect for a relaxing home spa day. Check out these great hair remedies for your curls.
1.) Ultimate Moisture Mask
- 1 avocado
- 2 tsp olive oil
- 1 tsp honey
2.) Dazzling Shine Mask
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tsp coconut oil
3.) Everyday Glow-Up Mask
- 1 avocado
- 1 tsp coconut oil
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
4.) Curl Refresher Mask
- Water
- Your favorite conditioner
This last one is a great "mask" to implement right out of the shower! Work an extra conditioning mask treatment on wash days to restore lost moisture. Simply fill a spray bottle with 3/4 water to 1/4 conditioner. Apply liberally, then gently distribute the mixture with your fingers as you comb through. This DIY hair mask is also one of our favorite natural detanglers for curly hair! Try it in the morning to wake up with beautiful, frizz, and tangle-free curls.
5) Mighty Yogurt Mask
- 1 cup of yogurt
- 2 tbsp honey
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 3-5 vitamin E gel capsules
Section hair, then apply evenly. Cover with a stylish shower cap and let your DIY hair mask work its magic for 20 to 30 minutes.
Aim to work a hair mask treatment into your hair care routine twice a week. If your hair is feeling especially dry or compromised, an extra mask treatment is always a good idea. You'll be dazzled by the results of these budget-friendly, hair-healthy masks.
HOW ABOUT THE BEST DIY HAIR MASKS FOR FINE, STRAIGHT HAIR?
The key to finding the best DIY hair mask for delicate locks is maximizing moisture while minimizing grease. This means you'll want to avoid heavy oils because your locks likely don't need any excess oil. Opt for a lightweight mask that won't weigh your hair down.
Try an easy milk and honey mask!
"Honey contains keratin to help strengthen the hair and prevent breakage caused by weak, brittle hair," shares stylist Amy Abramite.
"It also encourages cell regeneration for a healthier scalp and has anti-inflammatory properties that can calm irritation. When combined with milk, which is chock-full of proteins, amino acids, vitamin B12, iron, and zinc, the duo can help soften the hair and support its structure."
Aloe vera is also a great addition to hair masks for thin hair. This fantastic, all-natural hair care ingredient soothes oily scalps and removes excess build-up. Aloe vera fights inflammation by gently clarifying. It also won't leave your scalp feeling irritated after treatment and it's gentle enough to use on color-treated hair. Paired with a dash of argan oil, aloe vera provides the perfect moisturizing treatment for fine hair.
If your hair is especially fine, you can reduce the time you leave the mask on. Avoid overnight masks and stick to 15- to 20-minute treatments, no more than once a week.
IF MY HAIR IS IN BETWEEN, HOW DO I KNOW WHAT INGREDIENTS TO USE FOR MY DIY HAIR MASK?
Every hair type is a little different. That's why DIY hair masks are perfect for each unique style. Unlike store-bought masks that only target a few narrow hair types, DIY masks give you the creative freedom to explore what ingredients work best for your hair.
A good rule of thumb for finding the right DIY hair mask ingredients is to reduce (or add) ingredients by half. For example, if your first mask consists of two tablespoons of honey, try one tablespoon next time. Once you've found a good balance, add a new ingredient. Consider your hair's evolving seasonal needs like humidity-induced frizz and winter dryness. Adjusting your DIY hair mask recipe to suit your hair's evolving needs is the best way to treat in-between hair.
HAIR DIARIES
Note how your hair feels after each treatment. Can't quite remember? Keep a hair diary!
Taking note of subtle changes will allow you to tweak your recipe, depending on your hair's seasonal needs. With a little time and practice, you'll unlock the best DIY hair mask for your lovely locks.
The perfect hair mask is so much more than a simple hair treatment. It's a way to keep your hair healthy and vibrant while providing much-needed self-care time. Best of all, DIY hair masks give you the space to create: experiment with different healthy hair ingredients, try new scents with your favorite essential oils, and enjoy your home spa day.
Do you have a favorite DIY hair mask recipe? Let us know and look out for more amazing home hair care tips from the pros at RevAir.
