Hair masks are very popular now. From DIY masks made with natural ingredients you can find in your fridge or pantry, to a wide range of hair masks from your local grocery store to department stores and beauty stores, hair masks are great for dry, fragile, damaged or colored hair. However, it’s important to find the right masks that can nourish and repair your hair.

Not all hair masks (or face masks, for that matter) are created equal. And some people are almost scared to use a hair mask for fear that it won’t wash out or will leave their hair greasy. Hair masks are not “one size fits all,” so whether you want to repair damage or boost growth, choosing the right mask and using it properly will make a big difference.

When making a purchase, as you consider all the choices, read both the ingredients and the directions. Some masks are intended for daily use, while other heavier masks should be used no more than once or twice a week. Likewise, some masks only need to be left on your hair for 1-2 minutes (and are easy to apply while taking a shower), but other masks need to be in your hair for anywhere from 15 minutes to overnight (with a shower cap or scarf on your head to not destroy your pillow). So it’s key to find one that’s realistic for your routine.

Assuming your hair is soft, silky, replenished hair, follow these tips when selecting and using a hair mask:

• Apply your water-based mask to freshly-washed and towel-dried hair. If you prefer to apply your mask to dry hair, use an oil-based mask, but know that it will take a longer time commitment as the treatment is absorbed into your hair.
• Spread the mask on slowly and evenly, carefully working it through your hair from the roots to the tips. Use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb.
• Concentrate your mask on the ends of your hair, which are often the most fragile or damaged.
• To optimize the effects of the mask, wrap your hair in a hot towel for at least 10 minutes to help it absorb easier.
• A little goes a long way, and using too much of a mask doesn’t mean extra benefits to your hair. Use the amount specified, and if you have fine or short hair, you can actually use a little less.
• If you’re going to make a DIY mask, your “recipe” will likely include bananas, eggs, avocados, yogurt, honey, coconut oil or olive oil.
• Even if you washed your hair before, you’ll always want to shampoo and condition your hair after a mask to remove any leftover product build-up.