How Often Should I Use Colour Masks? (And How to Get the Best Results)

Colour masks are one of the easiest ways to refresh hair colour between salon visits — but knowing how often to use them, how long to leave them on, and how to apply them correctly makes all the difference.

If you’ve ever wondered why your colour looks uneven, too subtle or too strong, this guide will help you get professional results at home.

What Does a Colour Mask Actually Do?

Colour masks deposit temporary pigments onto the hair while deeply conditioning it. They:

• Refresh fading colour

• Boost tone and shine

• Add softness and manageability

• Help extend time between salon visits

Because they don’t alter the internal hair structure, they’re ideal for regular maintenance when used correctly.

How Often Should You Use a Colour Mask?

For most people, once a week is ideal.

The exact frequency depends on your colour, hair condition and how often you wash your hair.

Recommended Frequency by Hair Type & Colour

🔴 Red Hair

How often: Once a week

Red pigments fade faster than any other shade. Weekly use helps maintain vibrancy and prevents colour from looking dull or flat.

A conditioning option like Wella Professionals Color Fresh Mask is ideal when red tones need an instant refresh.

🤎 Brunette Hair

How often: Every 7–10 days

Brunette hair fades more subtly, but can lose warmth and depth. Using a colour mask weekly or fortnightly restores richness and shine.

🧴 Dry, Porous or Highly Colour-Treated Hair

How often: Once a week or less

Porous hair absorbs pigment more quickly, so using colour masks too often can lead to uneven or overly dark results.

Does Leaving a Colour Mask on Longer Make It Stronger?

Yes — leave-on time directly affects colour intensity.

General guide

• 3–5 minutes → Soft, subtle refresh

• 5–10 minutes → Noticeable colour boost

• 10+ minutes → Deeper, more intense result

If you want more intensity, extend the processing time rather than applying more product.

👉 Always follow the brand’s maximum recommended time.

Why You Should Always Comb Colour Masks Through

One of the most common mistakes is applying a colour mask and leaving it untouched.

Professional tip

After applying your colour mask, gently comb through with a wide-tooth comb.

This:

• Ensures even pigment distribution

• Prevents patchy or uneven colour

• Helps product reach every strand

• Improves overall finish

Start combing from mid-lengths to ends, then work upwards if needed.

Can You Use Colour Masks Too Often?

Yes — overuse can cause:

• Dull or muddy-looking colour

• Pigment build-up

• Hair feeling heavy or coated

If this happens, switch to a nourishing shampoo for a few washes to reset the hair.

Colour Mask vs Colour-Enhancing Shampoo

Using both — but not in the same wash — gives the best long-term results.

Recommended Products We Sell for Best Results

🔴 Colour Maintenance

• Davines ALCHEMIC Red Shampoo & Conditioner
  For maintaining red tones between colour mask uses.

• Wella Professionals Color Fresh Mask
  For an instant colour refresh when vibrancy fades.

🛡 Heat Protection (Essential for Colour Longevity)

• ghd Bodyguard Heat Protect Spray
  Protects colour from heat damage and premature fading.

✨ Shine & Condition

• Davines OI Shampoo & Conditioner
  Keeps colour-treated hair soft, glossy and manageable between pigment treatments.

• Davines OI Oil
  Adds instant shine and polish, making colour look richer.

🧴 Strength & Repair

• System Professional LuxeOil Range
  Strengthens the hair fibre so colour lasts longer and looks healthier.

A Simple Colour-Care Rotation That Works

Weekly routine example:

1. Colour-enhancing shampoo (1–2x weekly)

2. Colour mask (once weekly, adjust timing for intensity)

3. Nourishing shampoo on other washes

4. Heat protectant before styling

5. Lightweight shine or oil to finish

Stylist Tip: Technique Matters as Much as Product

Using the right product is important — but application, timing and even distribution are what deliver salon-quality results at home.

Explore Colour Maintenance Essentials

Discover professional colour-enhancing shampoos, masks and finishing products designed to keep hair vibrant between salon visits.