The right way to deep-condition hair

There’s nothing better than freshly washed, hydrated, glossy hair, is there? But if you’re not applying a deep-conditioning treatment to your hair regularly, you could be missing out on having gorgeous hair days more often. A deep-conditioning masque is an excellent way of resetting your hair, as it will replenish moisture that outside elements and heat styling have zapped from it. Although easy to use, there is a real art to making sure you’re making the most of the deep-conditioning treatment you’re using.

Just as you would with the shampoo and conditioner you choose, it’s important to make sure you’re using a deep-treatment masque that’s specifically suited to your hair’s needs. Then it’s a case of using it correctly to get the most out of it. Here’s everything you need to know about choosing and using a deep-conditioning treatment for your hair…

How often should you use a conditioning hair masque?

While it’s easy to take a ‘whenever I remember’ approach to hair masques, it’s important to consider your hair type, as this will dictate how often you should be deep conditioning. Curly hair tends to fall on the drier side, so make sure you’re using a deep conditioner almost every time you wash your hair and apply the majority of the product to the mid-lengths and ends as that’s where hair is more likely to lose moisture. Those with dry, chemical- and color-treated hair should use a masque around twice a week, while anyone with fine hair should only be deep conditioning once a week at most, so as to not overload hair and cause it to get weighed down with product.

How to choose the right deep conditioner for your hair type

The options for treatment masks can feel overwhelming, but if you focus on your particular hair needs, whittling it down to your perfect deep conditioning solution is easy. Try the Nexxus Keraphix Keratin Mask for Damaged Hair if you’re struggling with split ends and rough or even brittle hair (it’s a perfect complement to the rest of the Keraphix system), while the Nexxus Color Assure Long Lasting Vibrancy Deep Moisture Hair Mask is your new bestie if your color-treated hair is feeling lackluster, dull and parched. The Nexxus Humectress Deep Conditioner Moisture Hair Mask is a super concentrated deep repair mask especially for reinstating shine in super dry hair, while the Nexxus Vital 8-in-1 Hair Mask For All Hair Types is a great option for finer hair, as its blend of coconut oil, protein-rich soybean oil and keratin revitalize hair without weighing it down. If your hair is curly or coily, may we introduce you to the Nexxus Curl Define Pre-Wash Detangler Treatment For Coils & Curls. You’ll use this before you wash as opposed to after conditioning as with the others, and its ProteinFusion™ blend is incredible for detangling, reducing breakage, moisturizing and elongating coils and curls.

How long should you leave a hair masque on?

It’s easy to believe more is more when it comes to hydration, and that you should leave hair masques on for as long as possible but you don’t need to dedicate as much time as you might think to deep-conditioning your hair. (Great news if you’re already struggling to find the time!) In fact, leaving a hair masque on for longer than is recommended – especially if you apply it to wet or damp hair, as that’s when it’s especially porous – can inject too much heavy moisture into strands. This can cause hair to become weaker and even more prone to breakage. It’s always best to follow the product instructions and only leave a deep-conditioning treatment on for as long as directed.

Should you use a deep conditioner before or after shampoo?

This is something that really boils down to the type of product you’re using: pre-shampoo masques tend to be on the heavier side and work to soften and detangle hair, or they’re used to tackle dry, itchy scalps. However, post-shampoo masques are formulated for use on clean hair, and will close the cuticle, sealing in the added moisture. Choose your conditioning treatment based on your hair needs and look forward to stronger, healthier, more beautiful hair.