When your hair feels rough at the ends, it can be tempting to buy every repair product you see. But a more useful question is: do you need a conditioner, a hair mask, or both? Understanding the difference makes it easier to build a routine you can keep up with.
What is the difference between a conditioner and a hair mask?
A regular conditioner is designed to follow shampooing and make hair easier to detangle and manage. A mask is generally used as a more intensive rinse-out conditioning step when your lengths need extra attention. Formulas vary, so a mask is not automatically stronger or better for every hair type.
In the JAE ROOTS range, Moisturising Conditioner contains aloe juice, argan oil and hydrolysed wheat protein to help soften and smooth the lengths and ends. Our Repair Hair Mask 200ml — New Formula includes hydrolysed keratin, jojoba oil, coconut oil, argan oil and panthenol for a richer treatment step.
What does keratin do in a hair mask?
Keratin is a protein naturally found in hair. Hydrolysed keratin is used in cosmetic haircare formulations to support conditioning and the feel of smoother, more manageable lengths. A rinse-out keratin mask cannot permanently repair every form of hair damage or make split ends join together again. Trimming split ends and reducing excessive heat remain important habits.
How to use the JAE ROOTS Repair Hair Mask
- Wash first. Cleanse your scalp and hair with shampoo, such as JAE ROOTS Moisturising Shampoo.
- Apply through the mid-lengths and ends. Concentrate on the parts of your hair that feel dry or difficult to detangle rather than overloading the roots.
- Leave on for several minutes. Follow the instructions on the mask packaging; there is no need to leave a rinse-out mask on overnight.
- Rinse thoroughly. Style gently and assess how your hair feels before deciding how often to repeat the treatment.
How often should you use a keratin hair mask?
There is no one schedule that suits every hair type. A sensible starting point is to use a mask occasionally, such as on a weekly wash day, then adjust based on how your hair feels and the product directions. Fine hair may feel weighed down by frequent rich conditioning; very dry lengths may appreciate more attention. The JAE ROOTS product directions say to use the mask as needed.
Can you use a mask and conditioner together?
You can, but you do not have to. If the mask leaves your hair easy to detangle, additional conditioner may be unnecessary that day. If your hair still needs a little slip, use a small amount of conditioner as directed. More layers do not always mean better results.
What if your hair is dry at the ends but oily at the scalp?
Treat the scalp and ends as different areas. Cleanse the scalp according to its needs, then place most of your conditioning product on the hair lengths. Applying rich masks only where you need them can help keep a wash-day routine balanced.
A simple JAE ROOTS routine
For most wash days, start with The Hydrate Ritual, which combines our moisturising shampoo and conditioner. On the days your lengths need a richer step, consider replacing the conditioner with the JAE ROOTS Repair Hair Mask.
If you enjoy a pre-wash step, you can also read our guide to using rosemary hair oil before shampooing. Shop the JAE ROOTS collection in Malta, with free delivery across Malta.