Do I Put a Hair Mask on My Roots?

Many store-bought hair masks come with usage instructions, but they are usually brief and rarely tell you exactly where and how to apply the product. And if you made your own hair mask from scratch, there are no instructions to go by at all. Many who are just getting into using hair masks wonder whether they should apply the product to their roots - if you’re one of them, this article is for you. In this article, we’ll share the answer to that question. 

Hair Masks Are Generally Not for Your Roots 

Hair masks are formulated to be applied to your mid-lengths and ends. They are reparative, and the ends of your hair tend to be the most damaged. Unless your hair mask is specifically designed to be applied to your roots (as stated clearly on the packaging), you’re okay to apply it to only your mid-lengths and ends. And if we take things a little further, focus the mask intently on the last couple of inches of your hair - they are most prone to split ends and breakage. 

What Could Happen If You Apply a Hair Mask to Your Roots? 

If you apply a hair mask to your roots, a couple of things could happen. First, since hair masks are very rich and heavy, your roots could turn out oily and flat. If that’s not what you’re going for, you may need to use a dry shampoo or rewash your hair after the hair mask to reverse this effect. You could avoid this issue altogether if you avoid applying the hair mask to your roots.  

Another problem that could surface when putting a hair mask on your roots is scalp irritation. And this depends entirely on the specific hair mask you’re using. Some will have ingredients that are fantastic for your hair but may irritate or leave a film on your scalp. When you apply a hair mask to your roots, some of it will inevitably get on your scalp. The oils in the mask can also clog your hair follicles or make the skin along your hairline break out. 

Consider a Special Hair Mask

Given the risks associated with applying a hair mask to your roots, we urge you to avoid doing so. But if something caused your roots or the hair along your hairline to become damaged, it can be worthwhile to find a hair mask designed to be applied to your roots. There are specialized varieties are out there. These will be formulated with ingredients that won’t clog your follicles or break your skin out. 

What If Applying Hair Masks to Your Roots Works for You?

If you have been applying hair masks to your roots over time and haven’t experienced any issues, continuing to do so isn’t a crime. Just be on the lookout for buildup at the roots of your hair, and always be mindful of any unexpected scalp or skin changes. 

So, there you have it - applying hair masks to your roots is generally not a good idea. We hope you found all the information you were looking for in this article, and we wish you the best with your hair. 

Author: Andrea Reyes

Andrea is a mother, wife, writer, and natural hair enthusiast of 15 years. Currently on her natural hair journey, she’s been trying countless products and techniques to understand and embrace her natural hair. She is the creator of NaturallyTextured.com, a new website featuring informative articles that share tips, tricks, and techniques aimed to help others learn to love their hair through proper hair care. She writes with the hope of making hair care easier to understand and implement.