Hair mask or conditioner: what's the difference and when to use which?

Plaukų kaukė ar kondicionierius: kuo skiriasi ir kada ką naudoti?

Why do people confuse a mask with a conditioner?

Both products are applied after shampooing, and both leave hair softer – so many people think they can choose one. However, their function is different.

In short:

  • Conditioner – “everyday base”: for smoothness, easy combing, less frizz.

  • Mask - "more intensive help": when hair is dry, damaged, colored, breaking or losing elasticity.

When selected and used properly, the result is usually very clear: hair looks more well-groomed, less frizzy, and less frizzy.

Air conditioner: what does it actually do?

The main task of a conditioner is to "tidy up" the hair after washing:

  • reduce friction,

  • to facilitate combing,

  • to give smoothness and shine,

  • help protect hair from mechanical damage (combing, towel, clothing friction).

Conditioner is especially useful if:

  • hair is falling out,

  • feels rough after washing,

  • I want smoothness without weight,

  • The hair is thin, but the lengths still need "tidying up."

How to use correctly:

  1. Wring out excess water (the product “slips” on very wet hair),

  2. Apply from mid-lengths to ends ,

  3. hold for 2-3 minutes,

  4. Rinse well.

Mask: How is it different?

The mask is usually more concentrated and focused on a more intense effect:

  • greater feeling of softness and elasticity,

  • more "nourished" hair,

  • less frizz and "fluff",

  • hair looks stronger and more manageable throughout its length.

A mask is especially necessary if:

  • hair dyed or bleached,

  • you feel dryness, especially at the ends,

  • hair breaks and it is difficult to grow it longer,

  • hair has lost its shine and "liveliness",

  • you often use heat (straightener, curling iron).

How to use correctly:

  • 1-2 times a week instead of conditioner,

  • Apply from mid-length to ends (not on roots),

  • leave on for 5–10 minutes (according to product recommendations),

  • rinse thoroughly.

Can I use a mask instead of conditioner?

It's possible, but it's not always the best idea. Why?

  • For thin hair, a mask can be too "heavy" and weigh it down every time.

  • If your roots are oilier, accidentally applying the product too high will make your hair look "sticky" faster.

Practices that work for most:

  • conditioner after every wash ,

  • mask 1-2 times a week .

Quick selection guide (very clear)

Choose conditioner if:

  • normal hair, you just want smoothness,

  • your hair is thin and you are afraid of getting weighed down,

  • you wash frequently (daily/every 2 days),

  • you want a lighter result.

Choose a mask (optional) if:

  • dry, coarse, dyed hair,

  • breaks and fades,

  • hair has lost elasticity,

  • you want a more intense "salon" effect.

6 common mistakes that ruin your results

  1. Conditioner/mask on the roots – makes it heavy and greasy.

  2. Too short a time – 30 seconds is usually too little for a mask.

  3. Too much product – more is not better (especially for fine hair).

  4. Insufficient rinsing – hair will look "heavy".

  5. Mask without conditioner logic – mask 1-2 times a week, and conditioner every day.

  6. Heat without protection – even a good mask won't compensate for daily damage.

How does this fit in with the Grossty routine?

If you want a simple, logical routine that works for most people:

  1. Shampoo (preferably 2 washes)

  2. Conditioner after each wash (only for long hair)

  3. Mask 1-2 times a week (only for lengths)

The Grossty direction is most popular with those who seek:

  • softness,

  • smoothness,

  • less fussing,

  • a neater image over time.