The 10 Best Hair Masks of 2026, Tested By Women's Health Editors
These picks, from Olaplex, SheaMoisture, and Ouai, hydrate, soften, and add shine.
Reviewed by Brian UnderwoodBeauty Director
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Winter is synonymous with cozy evenings by the fireplace, alpine sports, and après ski festivities. But all these activities can do a number on your hair. UV rays and wind are notoriously damaging to strands (not to mention the styling challenges that hat hair brings). That's where hair masks come in: Think of these as your winter hair saviors.
Hair masks are super-concentrated deep-conditioning treatments designed to target and correct a specific problem, says hairstylist Paul Cucinello. Chock-full of key active ingredients, they work their way into the hair or scalp in just a few minutes. Hair masks are typically heavier than regular conditioners and give your tresses a little something extra, adds NYC-based hairstylist Sadah Saltzman. So, taking some extra time to use one will make your hair look and feel stronger and healthier.
Best Hair Masks
- Best Overall: Olaplex No. 8 Bond Intense Moisture Mask
- Best For Strengthening: SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Treatment Masque
- Best For Medium Hair: OUAI Treatment Mask for Fine and Medium Hair
- Best For Dry Hair: Moroccanoil Intense Hydrating Mask
- Best For Curly Hair: DevaCurl Heaven in Hair Moisturizing Deep Conditioner
What to Consider
With so many brands on the market, it can be hard to determine which ones are worth your money. Before diving into some of the best masks tested and selected by editors and experts, consider these shopping pointers to narrow your search:
Key Ingredients
Different masks will have different formulas with various active ingredients. That said, there are several that experts say are especially helpful. For example, board-certified dermatologist Lauren Penzi, MD, is a big fan of hydrating oils such as argan, coconut, avocado, and olive oil because they're rich in fatty acids and vitamins that penetrate the hair shaft to moisturize and soften hair.
Hyaluronic acid isn't just for skincare: it's also beneficial for hair, too. Dr. Prenzi describes the popular ingredient as a powerful humectant that attracts and retains moisture. She also gives the green light to glycerin for similar reasons and adds that shea butter, too, can aid in sealing moisture and adding shine. Additionally, antioxidants such as vitamin E "protect hair from the damaging effects of free oxygen radicals, which are unstable forms of oxygen that can damage cellular structures," explains board-certified dermatologist Brendan Camp, MD.
Hair Type
Investing in a mask that's appropriate for your hair type is key to getting the best results. If you have thinner hair, you'll need lighter moisturizing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or jojoba oil, says Dr. Camp. He adds that those with thicker, more textured hair, may benefit more from heavier moisturizing ingredients, like shea butter and cocoa butter, to provide shape and prevent frizz. "By addressing your hair's specific concerns and providing the necessary, tailored nourishment and hydration, you can more easily maintain the integrity of your hair and prevent damage," says Dr. Penzi.
Usage
Time is a huge consideration for some people, so it's worth selected a mask that works for your busy lifestyle. Most hair masks are meant to be used a few times a week or on a weekly basis; always check the directions and follow them accordingly. Before you apply a hair mask, make sure you have enough time to allow it to penetrate your strands properly. Follow the brand’s instructions as far as timing goes, keeping in mind that sometimes you actually can overdo it, says Cucinello. Saltzman suggests applying a mask and putting the hair into a braid or bun while working out, which lets the mask penetrate deeply while also keeping the hair off of your face (multitasking!).
How We Selected
When we originally published this story in February 2019, we only included a handful of hair masks that relied on Amazon reviews. Fast forward seven years to February 2026, and we’ve seriously upgraded our hands-on product testing methodology.
For starters, our beauty team consulted two hairstylists and two dermatologists for their picks of the best hair masks. Each year, we re-evaluate their suggestions to ensure they can keep up with the latest drops. And boy did we try plenty. The Women’s Health beauty team tested dozens of options, from drugstore staples to high-end splurges, to ensure there are choices for all budgets and hair types. To help you quickly find your closest beauty match, here’s a quick overview of each editor and contributor’s hair type.
- Danielle Jackson has natural hair and often rocks braids. She’s your girl if you’ve got coily and coarse textures.
- Nicole Saunders also has fine, natural hair and often wears color-treated wavy extensions.
- Sabrina Talbert has thick curls and prioritizes texture-enhancing and frizz-fighting products.
- Lily Wohlner has straight, frizzy strands and color-treats her brunette hair.
- Celia Shatzman has a mix of fine and wavy strands, while others are curly.
We also factored in expert guidance, naturally. As a quick reminder, these include the best moisturizing, frizz-fighting, and nourishing ingredients for our hair needs. We also considered how often we needed to use each mask to ensure they actually fit into our busy schedules.
Ultimately, these are the best hair masks, tested and recommended by Women's Health editors, dermatologists, and hairstylists.
Best Deal
Olaplex No. 8 Bond Intense Moisture Mask
Pros
- Pump takes guesswork out of application amount
- Makes hair more manageable
- Reduces frizz
- Leaves hair feeling super soft
Cons
- Overuse may cause overproteinization of hair
Over the past few years, Women's Health editors have tested and become loyal fans of several hair masks. The Olaplex No. 8 took our top spot because testers of all hair types were able to reap the benefits. It's also highly favored among multiple hairstylists and salons. Plus, it's more affordable than several options on this list and still delivers on quality.
Testers love this mask for its use of special technology to rebuild broken bonds in the hair, resulting from processes like coloring and bleaching. It also adds moisture, shine, and pairs best with some of the other damage-repairing products in Olaplex's lineup, including the No.0 Intensive Bond Building Hair Treatment and No.3 Hair Perfector.
Its bond-building technology is what helps leave hair so soft and healthy-feeling. What's that science all about? Hair consists of fibrous protein and keratin and is held together by bonds, which gives each strand its structure and stability. When these bonds are broken—by heat styling, chemical treatments, lifestyle—it damages hair and it can appear frizzy, dry, and brittle. Olaplex's patented bond-building technology, Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate, is a single molecule that penetrates the hair on a molecular level to repair these broken bonds.
In addition to the formula, contributor Celia Shatzman uses Olaplex as a reset in her weekly routine by adding strength and shine, while reducing frizz. She appreciates the light texture, pump distribution, and the clear instructions took out the guesswork of how much to apply, she says. Two pumps are ideal for her shoulder-length hair. Longer, thicker hair requires more product; while finer, shorter strands can use less.
"My hair was instantly more manageable. For once, detangling was a breeze for me and it was easier to style. Even during a heat wave, my hair was significantly less frizzy," explains Shatzman. A bonus: the fragrance is super subtle, which those sensitive to scents will value.
In lieu of conditioner, after shampooing, apply the mask from mid-length to ends, distributing evenly and avoiding the roots. Leave on for 10 minutes and then rinse thoroughly.
Read More: Best Strengthening Shampoos
| Key ingredients | Bis-aminopropyl diglycol dimaleate |
| Hair type | All hair types |
| Usage | 10 minutes, 1 to 2x per week |
SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Treatment Masque
Pros
- It doesn't weigh down curls
- It restores brittle hair
Cons
- It doesn't have the best smell
Calling all curly girls! Beloved by many, this mask features Jamaican black castor oil, which can moisturize strands while promoting and stimulating growth. Thanks to its antimicrobial properties, castor oil can help ward off bacteria and fungal growth on the scalp, safeguarding hair follicles from damage and fostering a healthy scalp that's ideal for hair growth. It also has fatty acids to nurture hair follicles. Plus, since castor oil increases blood flow to the scalp, that means more nutrients are delivered there, aiding in longer and stronger hair.
Users say this formula does wonders restoring damaged and chemically-treated hair. Many also call out that it reduced their shedding—even WH editors approve.
"This mask is one of my favorites from Shea Moisture because it softens and adds shine to my curls," says contributor Sabrina Talbert. "I stopped heat-styling years ago, but still have some damage that this mask has helped a lot with over the years." She notes that some people may not like the smell, as it's quite similar to clay or play dough. But if you can look past that, the benefits are there.
For best results, after shampooing, apply the mask from roots to ends, focusing on the ends, and comb through. You can opt to go heatless and leave it on for up to an hour, or place a plastic cap over hair and sit under a dryer for 10 to 15 minutes.
| Key ingredients | Jamaican black castor oil, shea butter |
| Hair type | Natural, chemically-processed, heat-styled |
| Usage | 10 minutes to an hour, depending on heat usage, weekly |
OUAI Treatment Mask for Fine and Medium Hair
Pros
- Works for a range of hair types and textures
- Adds hydration to over-processed hair
- Has a fresh smell
Cons
- Those sensitive to fragrance might find the sweet floral scent polarizing
This mask hydrates and softens while using hydrolyzed keratin and protein to strengthen strands and protect them from future damage. It also contains shea butter to hydrate and soften, as well as panthenol to restore shine. Overall, it's a great investment for people of all hair types, especially those with color-treated or damaged hair.
Shatzman has mixed strand types—some are fine and wavy, others are curly. "I love that this mask is made for a range of hair types, from fine to medium, and a range of textures, so it covers it all for me,” she says. Bonus: The floral fragrance made her shower smell like she was in a lush garden.
| Key ingredients | Shea butter, panthenol, hydrolyzed keratin, protein |
| Hair type | Fine and medium |
| Usage | 5 to 10 minutes, weekly |
Moroccanoil Intense Hydrating Mask
Pros
- Leaves hair incredibly soft
- Works well on dyed hair
- Makes the detangling process easier
Cons
- A lot of product is needed
This rich, creamy mask from Moroccanoil is infused with argan oil to nourish and replenish moisture in parched hair. It's also designed to improve the elasticity and manageability of your hair, too. This mask softens and smooths my hair, while Saltzman loves the shine it adds.
Moroccanoil’s signature mix of warm amber and sweet florals is enticing. The aroma is so beloved that the brand even launched a perfume that contains the signature scent.
Unlike other masks on this list, Shatzman finds this one performs better on towel-dried hair. From there, she combs the mask through, and leave it on for up to seven minutes before rinsing. The idea of drying your hair to wet it again might be a longer process, but it's worth it.
"One step I almost never skip is detangler, but this mask conditioned my hair so well that I was able to comb through it post-shower without applying one," notes Shatzman. "My hair was noticeably much softer even the next day, and it still carried a hint of Moroccanoil's addictive scent."
| Key ingredients | Argan oil, linseed extract, glycerin |
| Hair type | Medium-to-thick dry hair |
| Usage | 5 to 7 minutes, 1 to 2x weekly |
DevaCurl Heaven in Hair Moisturizing Deep Conditioner
Pros
- Quick usage time
- It nourishes hair after intense styling
- It tames frizz
Cons
- Heat may be needed to see a difference
Many people with waves, curls, and coils are no stranger to the high quality of DevaCurl products. And according to Cucinello, this is a great option for anyone with those hair types. The antioxidant butter blend gently nourishes and strengthens curls without weighing them down or tightening them up too much.
Bonus: It minimizes frizz, which is something our testers appreciate. Some note that their hair looked healthier and felt stronger after just a few uses. However, Talbert who has been using DevaCurl for years say the newer version of this mask doesn't work as well for her as it used to.
| Key ingredients | Not listed |
| Hair type | Medium to coarse waves, curls, coils |
| Usage | 2 to 3 minutes, 1 to 2x weekly |
Redken Color Extend Blondage Express Anti-Brass Hair Mask
Pros
- It provides fast results
- It neutralizes yellow tones without drying the hair
Cons
- Leaves a pink hue if not washed out thoroughly
Don’t be deterred by the bold purple pigment in this mask—it will turn blonde hair from brassy to bright after one use and won’t turn your hair purple in the process. Plus, it softens dry, brittle strands, according to our testers.
This is perfect as a once-a-week replacement to the Redken Color Extend Blondage conditioner. Just leave it on for five to 10 minutes, and you've got brighter hair. While you should always follow the directions of your products, anecdotally, some Amazon reviewers left it in for longer and were pleased with the results.
| Key ingredients | Triple acid protein complex |
| Hair type | Blonde hair |
| Usage | 5 to 10 minutes, weekly |
Matrix Brass Off Custom Neutralization Hair Mask
Pros
- It eliminates orange undertones
- It doesn't need to set for a long time
Cons
- It may stain your skin
Our brunette testers, including contributor Lily Wohlner, are obsessed with the budget-friendly Brass Off Custom Neutralization Hair Mask from Matrix. This blue-hued formula counteracts unwanted orange tones in just five minutes. Think of it like a toner that also deeply conditions your hair. Cucinello advises using this mask once a week max to prevent over-coloring the hair.
It contains notes of nectarine, raspberry, and passionfruit—a quality that many users rave about. Similar to what can happen with purple shampoos, conditioners, and masks, they warn that this can stain your skin.
| Key ingredients | Not listed |
| Hair type | Brunettes |
| Usage | 5 to 10 minutes, weekly |
dpHUE Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Masque
Pros
- Fights dullness
- Users experienced less shedding over time
- It soothes dry, irritated scalp
Cons
- Some say the scent is overpowering
Add shiny hair to the laundry list of apple cider vinegar’s benefits. Rich in vitamins and minerals including vitamins C and B, ACV strengthens the hair shaft, balances the pH of the scalp, fights frizz, and can help remove styling product buildup and debris.
This ACV treatment lowers the PH of the hair, creating an ultra-smooth texture with mirror-like shine, so if glossiness is your main objective, you can't get better than this. Other active ingredients such as sunflower seed oil protects hair color. Meanwhile, smart proteins fill in damaged areas along the surface of the hair.
The aloe vera in the formula leaves hair soft and silky. One thing to keep in mind: if you're not a fan of apple cider vinegar you may not like the scent of this mask.
| Key ingredients | Apple cider vinegar, vitamin B5, sunflower seed extract, avocado oil, coconut oil, rosehip oil |
| Hair type | Dry, damaged hair |
| Usage | 5 minutes, as needed |
Verb Ghost Hair Mask
Pros
- It leaves hair feeling silky
- It makes the detangling process easy
Cons
- It requires a lot of product per use
It’s hard to find a mask that’s light enough for super-fine hair, but this nourishing, feather-weight formula is just right. It boosts shine, smooths frizz, and repairs hair without any residue, says Cucinello. The vegan formula contains moringa oil and has a grapefruit-oatmeal scent, which users enjoy.
This mask works well on all hair types, but it's especially helpful for those with dry or damaged strands. It can be used once a week following your shampoo and conditioner. Work it through the mid-lengths of your hair and rinse after seven minutes for the best results.
| Key ingredients | Moringa oil |
| Hair type | Fine, medium, thick |
| Usage | 5 to 7 minutes, weekly |
Kérastase Discipline Maskeratine Mask
Pros
- It doesn't weigh hair down
- A little bit of product goes a long way
Cons
- It didn't provide enough moisture for some
If you suffer from frizz (especially in the humid summer months), give this powerhouse a try. It was specifically formulated to control and virtually eliminate frizz, says Cucinello. It also uses the brand's signature Morpho-Kératine Complex—a mix of ingredients designed to protect hair from humidity and control erratic strands without restricting natural texture. WH editors love this product.
Health and fitness director Jacqueline Andriakos considers herself a devotee to this mask. "I love that you only need to leave it in for five minutes, so I use it basically as my conditioner one to two days a week," she says. "I have thick, long, extremely tangly hair, and this mask makes a brush run through my hair like butter." She adds that while it's a bit pricey, a little bit of product goes a long way.
| Key ingredients | Morpho-kératine™ complex, softening agents, lipid agents |
| Hair type | Fine, medium, thick |
| Usage | 5 minutes, weekly |
Meet The Experts
- Brendan Camp, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York.
- Lauren Penzi, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist practicing at MDCS Dermatology in New York.
- Paul Cucinello is a celebrity stylist and owner of Cucinello Studio in New York City.
- Sadah Saltzman is a hairstylist at Salon AKS in New York City.
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*Additional reporting by Dori Price, Danielle Jackson, and Sabrina Talbert
Nicole Saunders is the beauty editor at Women's Health and has nine years of experience researching, writing, and editing lifestyle content. She specializes in breaking down complicated topics, like red light therapy for hair growth and LED face masks, into easy-to-understand guides. Saunders takes great pride in heavily researching and testing featured beauty products, such as strengthening shampoos and body washes for dry skin on our site.
Previously, she was the beauty editor at Best Products where she tested quite literally thousands of launches for her quarterly column and the Best New Beauty Awards package. She also launched the beauty and wellness coverage at NBC News and contributed to CNN, Cosmopolitan, Billboard, The Hollywood Reporter, and Harper's BAZAAR.
You can follow her on Instagram to stay in the loop on her product testing adventures.
Brian Underwood is beauty director at Women’s Health, where he oversees content strategy for the brand across all platforms, including digital, print, and social. Underwood previously served as beauty and wellness director at Oprah Daily and O, The Oprah Magazine. During his tenure leading beauty content for the Oprah brand at Hearst, stories Underwood commissioned were awarded the Skin Cancer Foundation Media Award and a Fragrance Award for Editorial Excellence (his second). He was the launch Beauty Director of Dr. Oz THE GOOD LIFE, and has held additional editorial positions at Fitness, Organic Style, Good Housekeeping, Life & Style Weekly, and Woman’s Day and has written for Self, Shape, Seventeen, Redbook, Cosmopolitan, and many more. Underwood previously served on the Skin Cancer Foundation’s gala committee and as partnerships director of the Trans Beauty Clinic, a New York-based charitable organization that provided beauty services and workshops to the city’s trans community.
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