Masque pour les cheveux fins.

Which mask should be used for fine hair?

Individuals with fine hair sometimes resist using a hair mask for fear that it may weigh down their hair. This apprehension is justified if the mask used is not suitable for this hair type or if the application time is too long.

Summary
Published June 2, 2022, updated on February 15, 2024, by Sandrine, Scientific Editor — 5 min read

Why do some people have thin hair?

Several factors can contribute to this type of hair: genetics, aging, excessively long hair (due to gravity), the use of unsuitable hair products, the accumulation of sebum or dirt on the scalp (weighing it down), and the dehydration of hair fibers. Fine hair gives a flat appearance, lacking in texture. The hair appears to be "stuck" to the roots.

Which mask for fine hair?

Several ingredients should be prioritized in a hair mask to restore volume. We recommend you to favor natural ingredients to take care of the hair without damaging it, but to avoid overly rich fatty substances such as certain vegetable oils (coconut, castor, avocado...), which may weigh it down. Opt for a mask containing one or more of the following compounds.

  • Plant-based proteins

A supply of plant proteins, derived for instance from almonds, helps to strengthen the hair fiber specifically in the damaged areas of its structure. Proteins assist in filling the gaps on the fiber's surface, coating the hair in a protective film, and smoothing the cuticle. Thin and fragile hair regains substance and shine.

  • Of the plant keratin or phytokeratin

The hair fiber is composed of 95% keratin, a fibrous protein that gives it its structure. It is thanks to the organization of keratin in the cortex that hair has the property of being resilient. If the scalp were resilient enough, a normal head of 120,000 hairs could support a weight of 12 tons! Phytokeratin is a common ingredient in hair care, derived from wheat or soy proteins. It helps to fill the gaps in the hair fiber and rebuild its architecture.

  • Hydrating active ingredients

Typically, it is sugar-derived molecules that provide the most hydration to hair. For instance, we can mention the aloe vera gel which is particularly rich in polysaccharides (mannose-6-phosphate, aloeverose, acemannan). These long-chain sugar molecules contain hydroxyl groups (-OH) that create a hydrophilic environment. The gel thus retains water molecules, limiting their natural evaporation from the hair fiber. Thehyaluronic acid is also an interesting compound to find in hair masks intended for fine hair. This glycosaminoglycan has a significant water retention capacity and limits the dehydration of hair fibers.

  • About Biotin

Also known as vitamin B8, biotin is essential to our metabolism. In terms of hair health, it stimulates the production of essential amino acids like keratin, a primary component of hair, thereby improving hair texture and elasticity. It also stimulates hair follicles to promote hair growth while making them stronger and more vibrant.

  • Of panthenol

This compound adheres to the surface of keratin, where it acts like a cement to ensure better cohesion between the hair scales. The fiber is as if sheathed. Less porous, it becomes more resistant, more flexible, shinier, and also easier to style.

How to use a mask for fine hair?

If you have this type of hair, only apply the hair mask to the mid-lengths and ends to avoid enhancing the flat appearance of the hair. Adhere to a relatively short application time, between two to three minutes.

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