Best Hair Masks for Fine, Damanged Hair
Hair masks are one of my favorite products that I rely on for keeping my hair healthy and shiny. Minimizing breakage and preventing damage between salon visits, at-home hair masks also keep my hair fuller and combat environmental stressors while protecting my hair anytime I use hot tools. My hair is fine and straight, so it’s important for me use masks that do not weigh my hair down or leave a film that builds up over time. Whether you’re looking for certified-clean ingredients, something you can auto-ship online, or the best mask under $15, I’ve tried tons of masks and rounded up my absolute favorite hair masks that provide maximum results.
the best hair masks for fine, damaged hair
Ouai Fine to Medium Hair Treatment Masque - This is my top recommendation for those with fine, damaged hair. Specifically formulated for fine to medium hair, it does not weigh your hair down or leave a film while providing deep hydration and shine. The scent isn’t overpowering, and I like that you don’t need to leave it in for a long time in order to see the benefits; I typically only leave it in for about two minutes max. This brand is great about running sales, or you can subscribe on Amazon for a discount, too.
Davines NouNou Hair Mask – This is a great, thick, extra-hydrating mask that I reserve for special occasions as it’s a little pricey. Almost as thick as a paste, I recommend this as a monthly treatment for maximum results. The scent is so fresh and makes you feel like you’re at a spa, and you’re left with extra-hydrated hair with healthy, natural volume. If you’re trying to save money, I would get the NouNou shampoo instead, since shampoos can sometimes be drying, and then use the Ouai mask instead – this will give you maximum results at the best price.
the best clean-beauty hair masks for fine, damaged hair
Amika soulfood Nourishing Mask – Amika sells a few different masks (another is listed below), but I’d recommend this one before the others as it’s a little lighter and more versatile. It can be used instead of conditioner, or left on for 5-7 minutes for as a conditioning mask. This mask feels like a facial for your hair, and is mild enough to be used weekly without having to worry about product build-up or losing volume.
Amika hydro rush Intense Moisture Mask with Hyaluronic Acid – More intense than the soulfood mask, I’d recommend this to anyone with especially dry hair, and it’s great for summertime use. This is best left in for 5-10 minutes (longer than soulfood), so I consider this to be a treatment product. The texture is more of a whipped product than a straight-forward mask, but can be a little heavy if your hair is on the thinner side. If you’re in-between deciding, stick to soulfood - for my full comparison between the two, click here.
Briogeo Don't Despair Repair Hair Mask – Certified clean beauty, this mask smells incredible and is lightweight, easy to rinse out, and free from sulfates, silicones, and parabens. I love this mask, but only for one specific use. I have fine, straight hair that will not hold any braid or wave unless I use a curling iron… unless I use this mask, which gives me tons of texture, so I only use this mask when I want “no heat” waves. I would probably not recommend this mask (or recommend it with caution) if you have natural waves or texture, because I could see it adding more tangles, rather than repairing your hair and adding hydration. I’m not sure what exactly causes this mask to add so much texture, but when I want a beachy look without having to break out a curling iron, I turn to this mask.
K18 Leave-In Molecular Hair Mask – This is the most expensive hair mask I’ve ever used, but a little goes a long way so it’s worth it. I’ve only bought the travel size and gotten at least 5 uses out of it, and I’m not even halfway through the bottle. This eliminates all frizz, so I recommend it to anyone with grey hair or those living in a humid climate; it’s a must-have anytime I travel to Boston. This is a leave-in mask and doubles as a heat protectant, so you get quite a few uses out of the one bottle. To use, start with one pump (adding more as needed) and let it sit for four minutes before styling as usual. The directions say to apply to towel-dried hair, so it’s perfect to use before blow-drying.
the best budget hair mask for fine, damaged hair
Hair Chemist Macademia Oil Deep Repair Masque – If you’re on a budget and looking for the best results at drugstore price, I cannot recommend this mask enough. It’s only $10 on Amazon, and I’ve purchased this 20+ times over the years without seeing a dip or change in quality. This mask is especially thick, yet it’s easy to rinse out and you don’t have to leave it in for long to see results. It does leave a little bit of a film, so I wouldn’t use this on back-to-back days, but for the price, it’s worth it.