Comparing silicone-free hair masks
10.4.2020
Translation: Eva Francis
If you have long hair, you'll know that washing your hair is quite a task. I stopped using conditioner long time ago, just to shorten the process. Who needs conditioner if you have the right hair mask?
I don't use conditioner anymore. This used to be different: I'd use conditioner all the time and hair masks every once in a while to add that bit of home spa feeling. And then Garnier launched its range of Hair Food Masks. These masks are so good that they've become a staple in my hair care routine and I've stopped using conditioner. This saves time and money. Looking for a change, I'm now testing three new masks. What important to me is that they're silicone-free and good at untangling my long hair. If it makes my hair look nice and shiny afterwards, that's a plus, but if it doesn't, I don't mind using hairspray or other care products on top. I applied the following three masks five times and left them in for as long as indicated as maximum.
Aura Botanica Masque Fondamental Riche by Kérastase
Scent: newly renovated apartment
Volume: 200 ml
Promised result: offers dry hair 96 hours protection from frizz, as well as smoothness and a straightening effect
Ingredients: argan and coconut oil, free of silicon, sulphate and parabens, vegan, 99% of the ingredients are of natural origin
Leave in for: 4 - 5 minutes
I've never had such a bad conscience while applying a hair mask. This hair salon product is expensive, which doesn't go well with the generous way I'm using it, which is not only in the ends of my hair, but all over. This makes sure I can brush my mane easily. I'm willing to ignore the scent, but not the fact that my brush gets stuck in the tips of my hair when I try to brush it. The knots are hard to get rid of and my hair looks dull. On top of this, there's also no sign of less frizz. Another negative aspect: the packaging looks nice, but the shape isn't convenient and makes it difficult to get to the product.
Anti-breakage mask by Nature Box
Hair masks
Quantity discount
CHF7.20 per piece for 3 units CHF40.–/1l
Nature Box Hair mask olive 200 ml
200 ml
My experience with this mask is the same as it was with the previous one by Kérastase: my hair is difficult to comb, doesn't look shiny and isn't silky. At least this product has a more pleasant scent than the expensive salon product.
The Yoghurt Mask by Garnier Ultimate Blends
I'm happy with this product. After I towel dry my hair, I can comb through them easily with my fingers or hairbrush. What's particularly remarkable is that it's a lot easier to straighten my hair after applying this mask than it was with the products by Kérastase and Nature Box. My hair is smooth, looks healthy and is shiny, even in the dry ends.
My verdict
Garnier's mask is my winner. It's not expensive and makes my hair easy to comb, just as my other favourite masks. In a direct comparison, however, I'd still prefer the Hair Food masks to the Yoghurt Mask, as they come in a 390 ml pot and offer more volume for money. The Nature Box product is my second favourite option. It has quite a nice scent, but doesn't make my hair shiny and silky. I can comb my hair, but not as easily as usual. The Kérastase mask comes in last, in my opinion. It's too expensive and doesn't offer a satisfying result.
I tested the masks separately from their brand line. This means I didn't use the shampoo and conditioner (in some cases these weren't silicone-free) that belong to the same line. Instead, I tested the masks with the shampoo I always use. It's possible that some products only show their full effect if they're used in combination with the other products they go with. However, as I'm looking for an all-rounder, I will stick to my Hair Food Masks for the time being.
Natalie Hemengül
Senior Editor
Natalie.Hemenguel@digitecgalaxus.chAs a massive Disney fan, I see the world through rose-tinted glasses. I worship series from the 90s and consider mermaids a religion. When I’m not dancing in glitter rain, I’m either hanging out at pyjama parties or sitting at my make-up table. P.S. I love you, bacon, garlic and onions.
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