Frequently asked questions
How exactly do hair-growth masks work?
Hair-growth masks don’t stimulate new follicles, but they strengthen existing strands, reduce breakage, and support healthier-looking length over time. Experts agree the masks work best as part of a holistic routine alongside gentle styling, scalp care, and patience. As far as other anti-shedding treatments go, minoxidil is an FDA-approved over-the-counter topical shown to promote hair growth and may be recommended by your dermatologist if you’re looking for something more effective.
“When hair is damaged, the proteins in the strand are exposed and vulnerable to damage,” says Robyn Gmyrek, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. “Hair-repair products help to plug any gaps and create a smoothness to make the hair look better, but also protect it from further damage.” Some also stimulate hair follicles with ingredients such as caffeine and cayenne.
In addition to incorporating a mask into your hair care routine, you may want to ask your doctor about supplements that support hair growth. “I suggest an oral nutraceutical packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that nourish hair from within,” says Matt L. Leavitt, DO, a board-certified dermatologist in Orlando, Florida. “Scientifically backed supplement ingredients supporting hair health include NAD, pumpkin seed extract, taurine, saw palmetto, and ashwagandha.”
In terms of ingredients, experts recommend oils that won’t weigh your hair down, such as coconut oil, jojoba oil, and castor oil. Other strengthening ingredients like collagen, peptides, fatty acids, and vitamin E can help plump, nourish, and protect hair from free radicals, which can encourage growth.
How do I choose the right hair-growth mask? How often should I use one?
Let us reiterate: No miracle hair mask will make your hair grow longer. With that being said, Dr. Rabach suggests avoiding overly fragranced and dyed formulations while sticking to options with ingredients that support strands and scalp health, including peptides and botanical oils. “Certain botanicals like rosemary oil, caffeine, and rosemary may help scalp stimulation,” she says. She also recommends keeping texture in mind, using lighter formulas for thinner hair types and thicker, denser ones for dry, thick hair.
Keep in mind that you should focus on masks that will address your personal hair concerns. “Hair masks will clearly be defined as for curly or dry hair, for example, so it’s important to focus on what needs you’re after, and look for those key words in the description,” says Kelly Novobielski, a celebrity hairstylist.
As far as how often to use one, it depends on the product, but experts recommend using them weekly or twice per week, depending on your hair type. (Finer types should use them less often, while thicker types can use them more often).
Is a hair mask or hair oil better for hair growth?
“A hair mask penetrates the hair shaft much quicker and helps promote hair health from within, all while conditioning the outer layer of the hair, which helps with smoothness and shine,” says Kerry E. Yates, a trichologist and founder of Colour Collective. However, only a scalp serum or treatment can help promote new growth from the follicle, she says.
What is the difference between using a mask and a regular conditioner for hair growth?
“A hair mask is usually deeply hydrating, nourishing, and a bit more intensive than regular conditioner,” says Yates, and will penetrate the hair shaft more deeply. While you can use a conditioner with every wash, most masks are intended for use only one to three times a week.
What should you avoid doing if your hair is thinning?
According to board-certified dermatologist Morgan Rabach, MD, it’s key to avoid stress of any kind on your strands. “Examples are tight hairstyles, over-drying, perming, too many harsh chemical treatments, and dyes,” she says. Jodi LoGerfo, DNP, a family nurse practitioner certified in dermatology, recommends limiting sun exposure on your scalp; along with the increased risk of skin cancer, frequent sun exposure and scalp sunburn can begin to affect the structure of your hair follicles, leading to hair loss.
Glamour editors and contributors evaluated hair masks on factors such as efficacy, ingredients, texture, and scent. We gathered testers with a variety of hair types—from fine to coarse, straight to curly—and focused on formulas enriched with nourishing oils, extracts, and hair-strengthening ingredients like amino acids and proteins. We prioritized masks that washed out easily and didn’t leave our hair feeling weighed down or greasy. The top performers left hair softer and shinier, improved manageability, and helped reduce breakage over time—making grow-out journeys feel easier.
- Aanand Geria, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Geria Dermatology in New Jersey
- Jodi LoGerfo, DNP, family nurse practitioner certified in dermatology
- Kelly Novobielski, celebrity hairstylist
- Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist
- Matt L. Leavitt, DO, board-certified dermatologist in Florida
- Morgan Rabach, MD, board-certified dermatologist in New York City
- Neera Nathan, MD, MSHS, board-certified dermatologist
- Robyn Gmyrek, MD, board-certified dermatologist in New York City
