Hair masks are one of the most effective treatments in any hair care routine — yet they are also one of the most misunderstood. When should you use one? How long should you leave it? Is there a difference between a mask and a deep conditioner? And how do you choose the right one for your hair?
This guide answers everything.
What Is a Hair Mask?
A hair mask is an intensive conditioning treatment that delivers concentrated nutrients — proteins, moisture, oils, and botanical extracts — deep into the hair shaft. Unlike regular conditioner (which primarily smooths the cuticle surface), a mask penetrates further and provides more substantial repair.
Think of it as the difference between moisturising your face daily (conditioner) and doing a weekly face mask (hair mask). Both matter, but the mask delivers the deep, transformative results.
Mask vs Conditioner vs Treatment: The Differences
| Product | Purpose | Frequency | Leave time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conditioner | Surface smoothing, detangling | Every wash | 1-2 minutes |
| Hair mask | Deep moisture + protein repair | 1-2x per week | 3-10 minutes |
| Protein treatment | Structural cortex repair | Weekly | 1-5 minutes |
The GA Liquid Gloss Nº0 falls into the protein treatment category — using lamellar technology for rapid structural repair. Evera's colour-matched masks combine deep moisture with colour-enhancing botanicals for comprehensive care.
How to Choose the Right Hair Mask
By hair colour
- Red / auburn hair: Red Mask No.3 — henna, hibiscus, goji berry for colour vibrancy
- Blonde / highlighted: Blonde Mask No.4 — rhubarb, calendula, vanilla for brightness
- Dark / brunette: Dark Mask No.5 — indigo, black tea, liquorice for depth
- Any colour / dry hair: Hydrating Mask No.2 — fenugreek, apricot, marshmallow root for deep moisture
By hair concern
- Dry, brittle hair → Hydrating Mask No.2 (moisture-focused)
- Colour fading → Your colour-matched mask (pigment-enhancing botanicals)
- Breakage, damage → GA Liquid Gloss (protein repair) + any mask (moisture)
- Fine hair → Use masks sparingly (every 7-10 days) to avoid weighing hair down
How to Apply a Hair Mask Correctly
- Shampoo first — Clean hair absorbs mask ingredients better. Use your colour-matched Evera shampoo.
- Squeeze out excess water — Hair should be damp, not dripping. Too much water dilutes the mask.
- Apply mid-lengths to ends — Avoid the scalp (roots are naturally moisturised by sebum). Focus on the driest, most damaged areas.
- Use a wide-tooth comb — Comb the mask through for even distribution.
- Leave for 3-5 minutes (standard) or 10 minutes under a warm towel (intensive). Heat opens the cuticle for deeper penetration.
- Rinse with cool water — Seals the cuticle, locking in all the goodness.
How Often Should You Use a Hair Mask?
- Normal, healthy hair: Once a week
- Dry or colour-treated hair: Twice a week
- Bleached or heavily damaged: 2-3 times a week initially, then reduce to 1-2 as hair improves
- Fine hair: Once every 7-10 days (to avoid weight and limpness)
What Makes Evera Masks Different
Most commercial hair masks rely on silicones for their "conditioning" effect — coating hair in a film that feels smooth but does not repair. Evera masks are 100% silicone-free and instead use:
- Shea butter (Masks No.3, 4, 5) — Deep, genuine moisture that absorbs into the hair
- Rice proteins — Penetrate the cortex to repair structural damage
- Fenugreek — Protein-rich botanical that strengthens and moisturises simultaneously
- Colour-specific botanicals — Refresh your tone while conditioning
- Cold-extracted — All active ingredients preserved at maximum potency
All masks are vegan, sulphate-free, and crafted in Italy. Free UK delivery over £60.
