I Put Two Different Hair Masques in My Hair.
** EDITED 11/22/2020 – Final Update!**
Kudos to those of you that do a lot of product testing! I can’t imagine going through this on a regular basis, not knowing what the final results will be or what it will take to get your hair back to it’s best if things don’t go well.
I really wanted to give this product a thorough trial before I recommended to my customers, and I’m so glad that I did. Otherwise, I might have been hesitant to do so. Now, I have the experience of actually putting it on my hair and knowing how it acts, how my hair responded, and how I felt about it to share with you all and can better advise you.
Hair Masques can be a delicate balance. Learning YOUR hair, what it needs, and when it needs it is so important. I hope you find this video series helpful!
Me. On the YouTube Video Description.
Here’s how that’s working out…
I don’t use hair masques often, because I don’t really feel the need…I’ve been using Olaplex 3 for a few months and love that. It seems to be sufficient! However, sometimes there is the need for a deep condition.
So, what’s a girl to do? There are lots ways to deep condition. We’ll go over those, but first, let’s answer the most asked question: What is a hair masque, and what does it do?
I found this simple definition to be helpful for a basic understanding (also, what a great name!):
A hair masque is a deep conditioning treatment for the hair. It is applied once every two weeks to increase moisture in hair, prevent breakage and help prevent frizz. They are also known to make hair soft and shiny. … Some hair masques may contain vitamins and can be used on all hair types.
divabycindy.com
Cindy goes on to share some of the terminology used when labeling hair masques:
- deep conditioning mask
- makes your hair smooth manageable and shiny
- powerful protector for your hair
- moisture-based product
- your hair is less frizzy
- for hydration and shine
- enhance the color of your hair
Basically, if you heat style, color treat, or otherwise expose your hair to potential damage…or if you just need more nourishment…you’ve probably used or considered a hair masque at some point. If not, you might look into it! Cindy’s blog has a wealth of information on hair masques and other products.
The best piece of advice I can give you when considering a hair masque is to READ THE DIRECTIONS. If you’re not doing what the label says, you’re not going to get the results expected. Over the last couple of years, I’ve learned this the hard way, but I’ve also learned a lot the FUN way – by interacting with other women focused on improving the health of their hair. And, really, that’s my main goal. To have healthy, LOW MAINTENANCE, easy to care for hair. I’ve been reminded that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
Seriously, as long as I do the things on wash days and am diligent about refreshes, whether those are quick or in depth, my hair does great. And, especially considering how often I wear my hair up (almost daily), I’m always pleased with the amount of curl I can create when i set my mind to it…and at the softness and overall health of my hair. And it never feels weighed down or full of product. I do notice, on occassion, that my hair just seems dryer than usual. I recall last winter fighting with that a little bit. And regular conditioner didn’t always do the trick. In the humid summer months, I use a leave in conditioner to fight frizz and dryness and that seems to do the trick, but it was still necessary to deep condition every now and then.
First, Here’s the clip that I neglected to put in the full video – and may or may not be important to you – it just tells you where my hair started on this wash day. The biggest thing of note, is that I hadn’t really paid it much attention over the previous few days.
Second, here’s the full video of the wash with some images worked in that I took throughout the day, including some from while I was still in the shower.
Third, here are two videos created on Day 2: one in the morning, one in the late afternoon. I’ll be adding videos to this post over the next few days, at least until I wash my hair again, rather than creating multiple posts. This post will be your one stop shop for this full product comparison!
And, last but never least: here is my final review and thoughts on these great products! I’ll be trying out some new styles and straightening my hair over the next few days and will share any additional thoughts and observations with those. I had so much fun doing this little experiment, and TRULY hope that you found it informative and helpful.
Let’s talk about different ways that you can deep condition and the most important thing you need to know about conditioning your hair.
Regular Conditioner. Yup, whatever you’re already using. I use Innersense Hydrating Cream Conditioner. You can basically leave your regular conditioner in your hair for a bit longer – that can be just 5-10 minutes in the shower, or as long as overnight. Sometimes, especially if I know I’m going to be out in heat and humidity, I don’t even rinse the conditioner out. You probably don’t want to do this with a protein treatment or hair masque. The proteins are great for your hair (if needed), but overuse can lead to potential problems and breakage.
Deep Conditioner. Some products are simply designed for deep conditioning. Follow the instructions on the label! This is so important, I can’t stress it enough!
DIY products. There are SO MANY OPTIONS! I haven’t done many of them, but the possiblities are endless! Often, these items are readily available in your home or pantry! Honey, coconut oil, mayonaise, olive oil, eggs, shea butter, castor oil are just a few of the possible ingredients. Do, please be careful and aware, especially if you have curly or wavy hair, that oils can often fill the hair shaft and prevent your hair from absorbing water. I’m not an expert, but if you choose to use any kind of oil as a DIY conditioner, be sure to RINSE THOROUGHLY, and I’d even go so far as to say to wash afterwards. CLICK HERE to learn more about washing your hair from Brad Mondo.
Hair Masques. They’re pretty amazing! You just have to find the right one for you and your hair. Sometimes, this can take a little experimenting. Also key, is knowing when your hair actually needs a hair masque/deep conditioning treatment. If you’re interested, comment, and I’ll work on a post about that! If not, carry on and keep reading!
The most important thing I can tell you:
Your PROCESS is more important than your product. Yes, quality products matter. Definitely. But, the your hair care process is much more important. If your hair has any texture to it at all, the process of getting WATER in your hair and keeping it there is vital.
I’ve been told for YEARS to rinse my hair in cold water after conditioning. This is a great trick, and it totally works, but I HATE IT! Because who wants cold water in the shower? So, lately, I’ve been doing my entire wash/conditioning process with LUKEWARM water. And, guess what? Everything’s been just dandy. If you’re water is too hot, this can open the hair shaft too much and cause/lead to damage. Cold water will, theoretically, close the hair shaft and lock in the moisture. I generally make sure everything is locked in with fillers and sealers, which make a huge difference for me, regardless of water temperature. Be sure to watch Brad’s Video about cleansing your hair. there are more tips there that I think you’ll enjoy!
The two products included in this review are the Lilla Rose Hair Masque and Shea Moisture Shea Moisture Manuka Honey & Yogurt Hydrate + Repair Protein-Strong Treatment. Please let me know if you try, or have tried, either! I’d love to know what you think of them!
Much Love to you and yours!
Cindi
Self proclaimed Godmother of the Messy Bun Mafia.
