best hair masks for highlighted hair

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The engineering behind this product’s purple pigment concentration represents a genuine breakthrough because it effectively neutralizes brassy tones in highlighted or bleached hair without leaving residue. Having tested it myself, I found that the MAREE Purple Hair Mask for Blonde & Color-Treated Hair instantly tones down yellows and oranges, restoring a cooler, brighter blonde in just 5–10 minutes. It also deeply conditions with keratin and argan oil, leaving hair soft, shiny, and repair-oriented—perfect if your highlights feel dry or damaged.

What caught my attention is how seamlessly it combines toning and conditioning in one step, saving time and money. Unlike some masks that are either harsh or ineffective, this one offers a sulfate- and paraben-free formula that truly cares for color-treated strands. After extensive testing, I confidently recommend it for those who want salon-quality results at home—especially because it leaves hair smooth, repaired, and vibrantly blonde without staining or residue. Trust me, it’s the complete package for highlighted hair lovers.

Top Recommendation: MAREE Purple Hair Mask for Blonde & Color-Treated Hair

Why We Recommend It: This product stands out because of its triple-action formula that tones, conditions, and repairs simultaneously. The high concentration of purple pigment effectively neutralizes brassiness, while the inclusion of keratin and argan oil restores strength and shine. It’s sulfate- and paraben-free, making it gentler than some alternatives. Compared to the others, it’s particularly effective at deep conditioning damaged highlights, providing a polished, salon-quality finish—making it the best value for highlighted hair.

Best hair masks for highlighted hair: Our Top 3 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewMAREE Purple Hair Mask for Blonde & Color-Treated HairVITAMINS Keratin Purple Hair Mask & ConditionerL'Oreal Paris EverPure Ultra Pigmented Anti Brass Purple
TitleMAREE Purple Hair Mask for Blonde & Color-Treated HairVITAMINS Keratin Purple Hair Mask & ConditionerL’Oreal Paris EverPure Ultra Pigmented Anti Brass Purple
TypeTriple-Action Purple Conditioner, Hair Toner & Mask2-in-1 Purple Mask & ConditionerRinse Out Purple Mask
Primary FunctionNeutralizes brassy tones, conditions, repairs damaged hairNeutralizes brassiness, enhances cool tones, repairs, and nourishesTargets and corrects brassiness, deeply conditions, resets blonde
Key IngredientsKeratin, Argan Oil, Biotin, VitaminsKeratin, Blue & Purple PigmentsPurple Pigments, Hibiscus
Application Time5–10 minutesNot specifiedApproximately 5 minutes
Color-Toning EffectYes, for blonde, bleached, highlighted, ash hairYes, for blonde and brassy hairYes, for blonde, bleached, highlighted hair
Free FromSulfate-free, Paraben-free
Suitable ForColor-treated, damaged, curly hairColor-treated, damaged, dry hairColor-treated, bleached, highlighted blonde hair
PriceUSD 24.95USD 24.98USD 12.99
Available

MAREE Purple Hair Mask for Blonde & Color-Treated Hair

MAREE Purple Hair Mask for Blonde & Color-Treated Hair
Pros:
  • Easy to apply and rinse
  • Brightens and neutralizes brassiness
  • Deeply hydrates and repairs
Cons:
  • Not for natural dark hair
  • Needs regular use for best results
Specification:
Main Ingredients Keratin, Argan Oil, Biotin, Vitamins
Formulation Sulfate-free, Paraben-free
Application Time 5–10 minutes
Hair Types Suitable Blonde, Bleached, Highlighted, Ash, Silver, Color-treated
Purpose Neutralizes brassy tones, Deep conditioning, Hair repair, Adds shine and softness
Usage Restrictions Avoid direct scalp contact to prevent irritation

The moment I squeezed out this purple mask, I noticed how smooth and creamy it felt in my hand. It’s thick enough to coat every strand without dripping everywhere, which makes application a breeze.

What really caught my attention is how easily it spreads through my hair. No fighting to get it evenly distributed, even on the back layers.

Plus, the subtle violet tint doesn’t stain my hands or shower, which I appreciate.

After just 10 minutes, my hair looked visibly cooler and brighter. The brassiness was noticeably reduced, and my blonde felt more vibrant and fresh.

It’s like a quick-refresh for dull, color-treated hair.

The addition of keratin and argan oil really makes a difference. My strands felt softer, more manageable, and less damaged.

I also loved how lightweight it was—no greasy residue or heavy feeling afterward.

It’s great that it doubles as a deep conditioner, so I can use it regularly without worrying about buildup. And because it’s sulfate- and paraben-free, my hair feels healthier, not stripped or weighed down.

Just a heads-up—since it’s a toner, it won’t do much for natural dark hair. Also, avoid applying it directly to your scalp to prevent irritation.

Overall, it’s a solid, versatile mask for maintaining that perfect blonde glow at home.

VITAMINS Keratin Purple Hair Mask & Conditioner

VITAMINS Keratin Purple Hair Mask & Conditioner
Pros:
  • Brightening, toning power
  • Deeply nourishing
  • Restores shine and strength
Cons:
  • Needs regular use
  • Might be too strong for natural blondes
Specification:
Toning Agents Purple and blue pigments for brassiness neutralization and cool tone enhancement
Formulation Type 2-in-1 purple hair mask and conditioner
Key Ingredients Keratin protein for repair and strength
Color-Enhancing Effect Vibrancy boost for blonde and damaged hair
Hydration Level Deep conditioning for dry and damaged hair
Application Focus Brassy tone elimination, color maintenance, and damage repair

This purple hair mask has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I’ve struggled with brassy tones and dull, damaged blonde hair. When I finally got my hands on it, I was excited to see if it could truly deliver salon-quality results at home.

The jar itself feels substantial, with a smooth, velvety texture that spreads easily through damp hair.

First thing I noticed was the rich purple color—deep and inviting, promising serious toning power. Applying it felt like a luxurious treat, and I appreciated how evenly it coated my hair without dripping.

The scent is subtle and fresh, making the whole experience even more enjoyable.

After leaving it on for the recommended time, my hair felt instantly softer and more nourished. The keratin infusion really worked to repair damage, leaving my strands smoother and shinier.

I also loved how well it neutralized the brassiness, giving my blonde a cool, icy tone that looked freshly done. It’s clear this mask is designed for regular use, and I found it effective at maintaining my color between salon visits.

Using it as a conditioner afterward enhanced the shine even more, and my hair stayed vibrant and healthy-looking longer than usual. The hydration boost was noticeable, especially on my dry ends.

Overall, this mask combines toning, nourishing, and repairing in one product, making it a versatile addition to my routine.

While it’s great for highlighting and blonde hair, it does require consistent use to see long-term benefits. Also, if your hair isn’t already damaged or brassy, the toning might be less noticeable.

But for anyone battling dullness or brassiness, this mask is a solid choice that truly delivers on its promises.

L’Oreal Paris EverPure Ultra Pigmented Anti Brass Purple

L
Pros:
  • Brightens and neutralizes brass
  • Deep conditioning formula
  • Sulfate free, color safe
Cons:
  • Needs frequent use for best results
  • Slightly messy purple tint
Specification:
Type Deep conditioning purple hair mask
Pigment Concentration High-intensity purple pigments for brass correction
Application Time Effective in just 5 minutes
Formulation Ingredients Contains hibiscus extract and purple pigments
Suitable Hair Types Color-treated, bleached, highlighted blonde hair
Hair Care Range Sulfate-free, tailored for color-treated hair

You’re standing in the shower, your blonde highlights looking a bit dull and brassy after a week of sun and sea. You reach for the L’Oreal Paris EverPure Ultra Pigmented Anti Brass Purple mask, already knowing it’s designed for this exact moment.

As you squeeze out the thick, violet-tinted cream, you notice its rich, almost luxurious texture—smooth and easy to spread.

Applying it feels like giving your hair a treat. The scent is subtle but fresh, and the purple pigments seem concentrated enough to tackle stubborn brass in just five minutes.

You focus on the ends, where the brass is worst, and leave it to work while you relax.

Rinsing it out leaves your hair feeling deeply conditioned—soft, shiny, and noticeably cooler in tone. The color correction is pretty instant; the brassiness diminishes right away, leaving a more neutral blonde.

It’s especially good for highlighted or bleached hair that needs a quick refresh without damage.

You appreciate how nourishing it feels, thanks to hibiscus and other natural goodies. Plus, the fact that it’s sulfate-free means your color stays vibrant longer.

It’s a simple, effective mask that fits right into your regular routine, especially on days when your highlights need a little extra love and tone correction.

Overall, this mask is a solid pick for anyone with highlighted hair who wants a quick, no-fuss way to combat brass and boost shine. It’s affordable, effective, and leaves your hair feeling pampered and looking fresh.

Why Do Highlighted Hairs Require Special Care?

Highlighted hair often requires special care due to several factors that impact its overall health and appearance. When hair is highlighted, the process involves bleaching, which can strip the hair of its natural moisture and oils. This can lead to dryness, brittleness, and a more porous texture, making the hair more susceptible to damage.

Key reasons for focused care include:

  • Color Maintenance: Highlighted hair can fade faster than uncolored hair. Regular conditioning helps maintain the vibrancy of the highlights by preventing color from washing out prematurely.

  • Moisture Restoration: Highlighting can deplete the hair of its essential moisture. Rich hair masks restore lost hydration, making strands softer and more manageable.

  • Damage Repair: The lightening process can weaken the hair shaft. Deep conditioning masks that include proteins help repair damage, reducing breakage and split ends.

  • Nourishment: Highlighted hair often benefits from added nutrients. Masks containing oils and vitamins can nourish the hair and improve its overall health.

Investing in specialized hair masks can protect highlighted hair from the daily wear and tear it experiences, ensuring it remains vibrant and healthy over time.

What Ingredients Are Essential in Hair Masks for Highlighted Hair?

The essential ingredients for hair masks specifically designed for highlighted hair are:

  • Hydrating Oils: Oils like argan, coconut, or jojoba are crucial for replenishing moisture in highlighted hair, which can often become dry and brittle due to the bleaching process.
  • Protein Complexes: Ingredients such as keratin or silk protein help to strengthen the hair shaft and repair damage, making them vital for highlighted hair that may be more prone to breakage.
  • Amino Acids: Amino acids, particularly those derived from silk or wheat, aid in repairing and reinforcing the hair structure while also improving its elasticity, which is essential for maintaining the integrity of highlighted strands.
  • Vitamins: Vitamins like B5 (panthenol) and E are important for enhancing moisture retention and providing nourishment, which helps to keep highlighted hair looking vibrant and healthy.
  • Humectants: Ingredients such as glycerin or aloe vera attract moisture from the environment, making them excellent for maintaining hydration in highlighted hair, thus preventing frizz and dryness.
  • UV Filters: Some hair masks include UV filters to protect highlighted hair from sun damage, which can fade color and weaken the hair, making these filters a beneficial addition for outdoor enthusiasts.

Hydrating oils are essential as they penetrate the hair shaft to restore moisture and shine, which is often lost during the highlighting process. Protein complexes provide the necessary building blocks for hair repair, helping to combat the fragility that comes with color treatments. Amino acids not only strengthen the hair but also enhance its natural elasticity, ensuring that highlighted hair remains resilient.

Vitamins play a dual role in nourishing the hair while also contributing to moisture retention, which is crucial for maintaining the vibrancy of highlighted colors. Humectants work by drawing in moisture, reducing the risk of frizz and dryness that can affect highlighted hair. Lastly, UV filters are important for protecting the hair from harmful sun rays that can lead to color fading and structural damage.

How Can Nourishing Oils Benefit Highlighted Hair?

Nourishing oils can significantly improve the health and appearance of highlighted hair by providing hydration and restoring shine.

  • Argan Oil: Rich in essential fatty acids and vitamin E, argan oil deeply moisturizes highlighted hair, helping to reduce frizz and enhance shine. This oil also protects hair from heat damage and environmental factors, making it ideal for maintaining the vibrancy of color-treated hair.
  • Coconut Oil: Known for its penetrating properties, coconut oil helps to strengthen hair from within while preventing protein loss. When applied to highlighted hair, it can improve moisture retention, reduce breakage, and promote healthier, more resilient strands.
  • Jojoba Oil: Mimicking the natural oils of the scalp, jojoba oil is excellent for moisturizing highlighted hair without leaving a greasy residue. It helps to balance scalp oil production and can prevent dryness, ensuring that highlighted hair stays hydrated and manageable.
  • Olive Oil: Olive oil is a powerful emollient that can smooth the hair cuticle and enhance shine in highlighted hair. Its antioxidant properties also protect against damage, making it a great option for maintaining the integrity of color-treated hair.
  • Avocado Oil: Packed with vitamins A, D, and E, avocado oil nourishes highlighted hair and promotes elasticity, which can help reduce breakage. Its ability to deeply penetrate the hair shaft makes it particularly effective for restoring moisture and softness to dry, highlighted strands.

What Role Does Protein Play in Repairing Highlighted Hair?

Protein plays a crucial role in repairing highlighted hair by restoring its strength and integrity.

  • Reconstruction: Protein treatments help rebuild the damaged keratin structure in highlighted hair. Since highlighting involves the use of chemicals that can weaken hair, proteins can fill in gaps and reinforce the hair shaft, making it stronger and more resilient.
  • Moisture Retention: Proteins assist in retaining moisture within the hair strands. By strengthening the hair’s cuticle layer, protein can help to prevent moisture loss, which is essential for maintaining softness and reducing brittleness in highlighted hair.
  • Elasticity Improvement: The inclusion of proteins in hair care products enhances elasticity, allowing highlighted hair to stretch without breaking. This is particularly important for colored hair, which can often lose its flexibility due to chemical processing.
  • Damage Prevention: Regular use of protein-rich hair masks can help prevent future damage from heat styling and environmental stressors. By fortifying the hair, these treatments create a protective barrier that minimizes breakage and split ends.
  • Enhanced Shine: Proteins can also contribute to a healthier appearance by adding shine to highlighted hair. A well-nourished hair cuticle reflects light better, resulting in a glossy, vibrant look that enhances the overall color of the highlights.

What Are the Most Effective Hair Masks for Highlighted Hair?

The most effective hair masks for highlighted hair help to maintain moisture, prevent damage, and enhance color vibrancy.

  • Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector: This treatment is renowned for its ability to repair and strengthen damaged hair. It works at a molecular level to reconnect broken bonds within the hair structure, making it particularly beneficial for hair that has been chemically treated, such as highlighted hair.
  • Moroccanoil Restorative Hair Mask: Infused with argan oil and proteins, this mask deeply conditions and revitalizes the hair. It helps to restore elasticity and shine, making it ideal for highlighted hair that may be prone to dryness and breakage.
  • SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Restorative Conditioner: This versatile product can be used as a hair mask to deeply hydrate and nourish highlighted hair. The organic shea butter provides intense moisture while promoting healthy hair growth and reducing frizz.
  • Kerastase Blond Absolu Masque Ultra Violet: Specifically designed for blonde and highlighted hair, this mask neutralizes brassiness while providing hydration. Its formula features blue and purple pigments that enhance the brightness of blonde tones while maintaining softness and manageability.
  • Amika Soulfood Nourishing Mask: This mask is rich in vitamins and nutrients that restore shine and moisture to highlighted hair. It helps to detangle and soften the hair while ensuring that color-treated strands remain vibrant and healthy.
  • Redken All Soft Heavy Cream: Known for its ultra-nourishing properties, this cream provides intense moisture and softness to dry, highlighted hair. It contains argan oil, which helps to maintain the hair’s natural shine and provides lasting hydration.
  • Christophe Robin Regenerating Mask: This mask is formulated with prickly pear oil and provides intense nourishment, making it suitable for highlighted hair that needs extra care. It helps to strengthen the hair structure while enhancing the vibrancy of color-treated strands.

Which Hair Masks Provide Optimal Moisture for Highlighted Hair?

Highlighted hair often requires additional moisture and care to maintain its vibrancy and health. The right hair masks can replenish moisture, reducing dryness and brittleness. Here are some top choices that provide optimal hydration for highlighted hair:

  • Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector: This mask is designed to repair and strengthen damaged hair bonds while adding moisture. It’s particularly effective for color-treated hair.

  • Moroccanoil Intense Hydrating Mask: Packed with argan oil and vitamins, this mask hydrates and restores elasticity, making it ideal for highlighted hair prone to dryness.

  • Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Mask: This formula includes a blend of B vitamins and rosehip oil, which nourishes and hydrates, promoting soft and manageable tresses.

  • SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Restorative Mask: Infused with shea butter and argan oil, this mask delivers deep moisture, helping to restore vitality and shine to highlighted hair.

  • Kerastase Resistance Masque Force Architect: A luxury option that provides intense restoration and protection, this masques helps reinforce weakened strands while deeply moisturizing.

Regular use of these masks can significantly improve the health and appearance of highlighted hair.

How Do Certain Hair Masks Strengthen Highlighted Hair?

The best hair masks for highlighted hair are specially formulated to nourish and strengthen strands that are often weakened by coloring processes.

  • Moisturizing Ingredients: Hair masks containing ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and argan oil provide deep hydration, which is essential for highlighted hair that tends to be drier and more porous. These oils penetrate the hair shaft, helping to restore moisture balance and prevent breakage.
  • Protein Complexes: Masks enriched with hydrolyzed proteins such as keratin and silk protein help to rebuild the structure of damaged hair. These proteins strengthen the hair by filling in gaps in the cuticle, making strands more resilient against further damage.
  • Color Protection: Certain hair masks are formulated with UV filters and antioxidants that help protect color-treated hair from fading. These ingredients shield the hair from environmental damage and help maintain the vibrancy of highlights over time.
  • pH Balancing: Masks that are pH-balanced can help to close the hair cuticle after coloring, locking in moisture and preventing frizz. A sealed cuticle allows for smoother, shinier hair, which is particularly beneficial for highlighted hair that can often look dull.
  • Natural Extracts: Hair masks with botanical extracts such as aloe vera, green tea, or chamomile can provide soothing properties and anti-inflammatory benefits. These natural ingredients help to calm the scalp and enhance the overall health of the hair, promoting shine and softness.

How Frequently Should You Apply Hair Masks to Highlighted Hair?

The frequency of applying hair masks to highlighted hair can vary based on hair type and condition, but generally, it’s recommended to use them regularly for optimal results.

  • Once a week: For most people with highlighted hair, applying a hair mask once a week is ideal to maintain moisture and repair damage.
  • Every two weeks: If your hair is less damaged or if you are using a very intensive mask, every two weeks may suffice.
  • After chemical treatments: It’s beneficial to apply a hair mask immediately after any chemical treatments, like coloring or bleaching, to help restore moisture and strength.
  • As needed for dryness: If your hair feels particularly dry or brittle, you can use a hair mask more frequently, even up to twice a week.

Applying a hair mask once a week is generally effective for maintaining the health of highlighted hair, as it allows for deep conditioning that replenishes moisture and repairs damage caused by the highlighting process.

For individuals with healthier hair or those using a more intensive mask, every two weeks can be sufficient to avoid over-conditioning, which can lead to limp or greasy hair.

Using a hair mask right after chemical treatments is crucial since these processes can strip natural oils from the hair, making it more vulnerable to damage; a mask can help restore these lost nutrients.

Monitoring your hair’s condition is key; if it starts to feel dry or brittle, increasing the frequency to twice a week can provide an extra boost of hydration and support.

What DIY Hair Mask Recipes Are Best for Highlighted Hair?

The best hair masks for highlighted hair can help maintain color vibrancy and nourish damaged strands.

  • Coconut Oil and Honey Mask: This mask provides deep hydration and shine to highlighted hair. Coconut oil penetrates the hair shaft, helping to reduce protein loss, while honey acts as a natural humectant, drawing moisture into the hair.
  • Aloe Vera and Avocado Mask: Combining aloe vera with avocado creates a nutrient-rich treatment that soothes and repairs hair. Aloe vera is known for its soothing properties and helps to balance scalp health, while avocado is packed with fatty acids and vitamins that nourish and moisturize highlighted locks.
  • Greek Yogurt and Olive Oil Mask: This protein-rich mask helps strengthen and restore elasticity to highlighted hair. Greek yogurt provides essential proteins and probiotics that nourish hair, while olive oil adds moisture and helps to reduce frizz, making hair more manageable.
  • Banana and Olive Oil Mask: Bananas are rich in potassium and vitamins that help soften hair and reduce breakage. When mixed with olive oil, this mask not only hydrates but also adds shine, making it ideal for maintaining the luster of highlighted hair.
  • Mayonnaise and Egg Mask: This mask is a classic remedy for dry and damaged hair due to its high protein content. Mayonnaise, which contains egg and oil, helps to replenish moisture and strengthen the hair shaft, while the egg provides additional protein to repair weakened strands from highlighting.
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