Hair Mask vs Hair Oil: What's the Difference and Do You Need Both?
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Hair oiling is a habit most of us grew up with. Hair masks are newer to many routines. Both promise nourishment, so it is natural to wonder whether you need one, the other or both. Here is how they differ and how to use them together.
What a hair oil does
A hair oil is massaged into the scalp and lengths, usually before washing. The massage itself is a big part of the ritual, and the oil coats the hair to leave it softer and shinier.
The Theraglam Hair Revival Oil is a 100ml blend of bhringraj, amla, onion seed and black seed oil. It is made to be lightweight and fast-absorbing, for all hair types and genders, and is paraben and sulfate-free.
What a hair mask does
A hair mask is a thicker treatment applied to damp hair for a set time and then rinsed out. It is designed for deeper conditioning in one session, especially for dry or damaged lengths.
The Theraglam Root Revival Hair Mask combines amla, bhringraj and black sesame oil. It is made to nourish dry, damaged strands and restore softness and shine, and is free of parabens and sulfates. It comes in a 50g jar.
The quick comparison
| Hair oil | Hair mask | |
|---|---|---|
| Texture | Liquid | Thick cream |
| Applied to | Dry scalp and hair | Damp hair |
| Time on hair | An hour to overnight, then washed | 15 to 20 minutes, then rinsed |
| Main focus | Scalp massage and regular nourishment | Deep conditioning of the lengths |
| How often | Two to three times a week | Two to three times a week |
Which one do you need?
- You enjoy the oiling ritual and your hair is in fair shape: a good oil may be all you need.
- Your ends feel dry, rough or frizzy: add a mask.
- You dislike leaving oil in for hours: a mask gives you nourishment in 20 minutes.
- You want the fullest routine: use both on different days.
A simple weekly plan using both
- Day 1: massage Hair Revival Oil into the scalp for five minutes, comb it through, leave for at least an hour or overnight, then wash with a mild shampoo.
- Day 4: after shampooing, apply Root Revival Hair Mask to damp hair, massage for two to three minutes, leave for 15 to 20 minutes and rinse well.
- Repeat each week. Adjust to two oil days and one mask day, or the other way round, depending on your hair.
How to use a hair mask properly
- Wash your hair and squeeze out excess water.
- Apply the mask from mid-lengths to ends, then work some into the scalp.
- Massage for two to three minutes.
- Leave for 15 to 20 minutes. A shower cap helps.
- Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
Common mistakes
- Using too much oil, which takes several washes to remove.
- Rinsing a mask too soon. Give it the full time.
- Rubbing wet hair with a towel. Squeeze or pat it instead.
Hair fall can have many causes, including health and hormonal ones. If you are losing a lot of hair suddenly, please see a doctor or dermatologist. This article is general hair care guidance, not medical advice.
Want a full plan for your skin, diet and habits? Try the Theraglam Glow Scan.