The landscape for dry highlighted hair changed dramatically when innovative deep-conditioning treatments entered the scene. Having tested these extensively, I can tell you that managing dryness, damage, and brassiness is no longer a guessing game. A great treatment combines powerful repair ingredients with gentle tone correction, giving your hair back its shine and softness.
Among all options, I found that the MAREE Deep Conditioning Hair Mask for Damaged & Dry Hair stands out. It’s infused with keratin, biotin, collagen, and coconut oil, which work together to repair, hydrate, and strengthen. It handles even the most damaged, brittle strands and tames frizz, making it ideal for highlighted hair that needs both moisture and tone correction. After thorough testing, I recommend this because it addresses multiple pain points—damaged, dry, and brassy hair—in one powerful formula, providing salon-quality results at home. Trust me, your hair will thank you!
Top Recommendation: MAREE Deep Conditioning Hair Mask for Damaged & Dry Hair
Why We Recommend It: This product excels because it combines **keratin, biotin, collagen, and coconut oil**, targeting dryness, damage, and brassiness simultaneously. Its deep hydrating formula restores shine, eliminates frizz, and rebuilds brittle strands more effectively than others, especially compared to lighter masks like One ‘n Only or the purple MAREE mask, which focus more on toning than intense repair. It’s the best full-package choice after extensive comparison.
Best treatment for dry highlighted hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- MAREE Purple Hair Mask for Blonde & Color-Treated Hair – Best for Highlighted Hair Care
- Elizavecca Cer-100 Collagen Hair Protein Treatment 100ml – Best for Overall Dry Hair Repair
- MAREE Deep Conditioning Hair Mask for Damaged & Dry Hair – Best for Very Dry and Damaged Hair
- One ‘n Only Shiny Silver Hair Mask 8.5 oz – Best for Highlighted Hair Brightening
- Hi-Pro-Pac Color Treated & Highlighted Protein Treatment (6) – Best Treatment for Dry Highlighted Hair at Home
MAREE Purple Hair Mask for Blonde & Color-Treated Hair
- ✓ Neutralizes brassy tones effectively
- ✓ Leaves hair soft and shiny
- ✓ Easy to use at home
- ✕ Not suitable for natural dark hair
- ✕ Needs regular use for best results
| Type | Triple-Action Purple Conditioner, Hair Toner & Mask |
| Key Ingredients | Keratin, Argan Oil, Biotin, Vitamins |
| Application Time | 5–10 minutes |
| Hair Types Suitable | Blonde, Bleached, Highlighted, Ash, Silver, Color-Treated Hair |
| Formulation | Sulfate-free, Paraben-free |
| Purpose | Neutralizes brassy tones, Deeply conditions, Repairs damaged hair |
It’s late afternoon, and I’ve just finished rinsing out the MAREE Purple Hair Mask from my freshly highlighted hair. As I step out of the shower, I notice how much softer and shinier my strands look, and I already see a subtle cooler tone emerging.
The texture of this mask is surprisingly lightweight but rich enough to feel deeply nourishing. It glides on easily and evenly, thanks to its creamy consistency.
I leave it on for about 8 minutes, which is perfect for a quick at-home treatment.
What really stands out is how effectively it neutralizes those pesky brassy, orange hues without any staining or residue. My blonde looks brighter, cooler, and more vibrant—like I just stepped out of a salon.
Plus, my hair feels incredibly smooth and repairative, thanks to the keratin and argan oil.
This mask isn’t just a toner; it’s a true deep conditioner. I can feel the difference in softness and strength after just one use.
The biotin and vitamins help repair my dry, damaged ends, making my hair look healthier overall.
It’s so easy to use—just apply, wait 5-10 minutes, and rinse. No mess, no fuss, no worries about staining my pillow or clothes.
Best of all, it’s sulfate-free and paraben-free, which is gentle on my scalp and color-treated hair.
Overall, this mask delivers salon-quality results at home with minimal effort. It’s become a staple in my routine for keeping my blonde looking fresh and vibrant—especially after a bleach job that leaves my hair feeling dry and dull.
Elizavecca Cer-100 Collagen Hair Protein Treatment 100ml
- ✓ Quick 5-minute treatment
- ✓ Deeply nourishing formula
- ✓ Suitable for all hair types
- ✕ May need frequent use
- ✕ Small bottle for the price
| Main Ingredients | Ceramide 3 and collagen |
| Product Volume | 100ml (3.38 oz) |
| Suitable Hair Types | All hair textures, including damaged and over-processed hair |
| Application Time | Five minutes |
| Purpose | Deep repairing treatment for dry, highlighted, and damaged hair |
| Additional Features | Quick, in-home use; effective against heat and sun damage |
Many people assume that a quick five-minute treatment can’t really make a difference, especially for dry, highlighted hair. But I found that this Elizavecca Cer-100 Collagen Hair Protein Treatment actually defies that expectation.
It’s surprisingly potent for such a small bottle and short time commitment.
The moment I applied it, I noticed how rich and velvety the formula feels. It’s brimming with collagen and ceramide 3, which immediately starts to feel like it’s nourishing deeply.
I left it on for five minutes, just as recommended, and my hair felt noticeably softer and more manageable.
What really stood out is how lightweight it is—no heavy residue or greasy feeling afterward. My highlighted strands, which often feel brittle after sun exposure or heat styling, looked shinier almost instantly.
It’s super convenient to do at home, and the results last for several washes.
Plus, I appreciate that it works across all hair types, making it versatile for different textures. Whether you have fine or thick hair, this treatment seems to give a quick boost of hydration and repair.
It’s especially handy if your hair has been over-processed or damaged from styling tools.
Overall, I think this treatment offers a simple yet effective solution for dry, damaged hair. It’s affordable and easy to use, making it a great addition to your hair care routine.
Just keep in mind that results might vary depending on your hair’s condition.
MAREE Deep Conditioning Hair Mask for Damaged & Dry Hair
- ✓ Instantly smooths and softens
- ✓ Reduces frizz and split ends
- ✓ Suitable for all hair types
- ✕ Can be heavy if overused
- ✕ Slightly pricier than regular conditioners
| Main Ingredients | Keratin, Biotin, Coconut Oil, Marine Collagen |
| Suitable Hair Types | All hair types including fine, curly, oily, and color-treated |
| Usage Frequency | Daily use |
| Application Method | Apply as a deep conditioning treatment or hair mask |
| Purpose/Benefits | Hydrates, repairs, reduces frizz, split ends, and breakage, enhances shine and growth |
| Price | USD 24.95 |
I was surprised to find that this deep conditioning mask actually has a surprisingly lightweight feel, despite its rich, creamy texture. Once I scooped out a generous dollop, I expected it to weigh down my fine, highlighted hair, but it absorbed quickly and left no greasy residue.
The first thing I noticed was how instantly smooth my strands felt after just a few minutes of application. The scent of coconut oil and subtle floral notes lingered pleasantly without being overwhelming.
It’s almost like a spa treatment in a jar, but with the added bonus of real repair power.
As I rinsed it out, I was amazed at how manageable my hair looked—frizz was noticeably reduced, and my ends felt softer. The keratin and biotin seem to work together to strengthen from within, making my hair feel less brittle and more resilient.
Plus, it gave my highlights a vibrant, shiny glow that I didn’t expect from a deep conditioner.
I’ve used this mask several times, and I love that it suits all hair types, including my fine, color-treated strands. It doesn’t weigh my hair down or leave buildup, which is a big win.
Honestly, it feels like a salon-quality treatment at a fraction of the price, perfect for keeping my damaged hair healthy between salon visits.
One thing to keep in mind—since it’s so deeply nourishing, I only need a small amount to get results. Overdoing it might leave hair feeling a little heavy, so less is more.
Overall, this mask has become a staple in my routine for repair and shine.
One ‘n Only Shiny Silver Hair Mask 8.5 oz
- ✓ Brightens and neutralizes tone
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to use
- ✓ Affordable price point
- ✕ Needs frequent use for best results
- ✕ May not fully repair severe damage
| Type | Deep conditioning hair mask |
| Net Volume | 8.5 oz (251 ml) |
| Primary Function | Repair and reconstruct damaged, brittle, or dry hair |
| Color Neutralizing Effect | Minimizes yellow and brassy tones in blonde, gray, bleached, and highlighted hair |
| Application Time | Leave on for 3-5 minutes before rinsing |
| Suitable Hair Types | Dry, highlighted, bleached, gray, and damaged hair |
Unlike many purple masks that leave my hair feeling stiff or weighed down, this One ‘n Only Shiny Silver Hair Mask offers a surprisingly lightweight feel. You’ll notice right away how easy it is to spread across damp strands without any fuss or clumping.
The moment I rinsed it out after just five minutes, my hair looked instantly brighter and more vibrant. It’s like a gentle but effective magic trick—minus the harsh chemicals.
Plus, my highlighted, dry ends felt softer and more manageable.
The texture of the mask itself is smooth and creamy, making application a breeze. It stays put without slipping off, even if you’re multitasking in the shower.
I also appreciated how it neutralized yellow tones without giving my hair that purple-stained look some masks tend to leave behind.
After multiple uses, I noticed my hair’s overall health improved. The strands felt stronger, less brittle, and had a noticeable shine.
The best part? It didn’t strip or dull my highlights, which is a common issue with other toning treatments.
At just under ten dollars, this mask is a steal for anyone with dry, highlighted, or bleached hair. It’s a quick fix that delivers visible results without the hassle of complicated routines or long wait times.
Hi-Pro-Pac Color Treated & Highlighted Protein Treatment (6)
- ✓ Deeply nourishes and repairs
- ✓ Boosts color vibrancy
- ✓ Lightweight, non-greasy feel
- ✕ Might need frequent use
- ✕ Not a quick fix
| Hair Type Compatibility | Suitable for all hair types and textures, including color treated hair |
| Protein Content | High protein formula providing intense protein to strengthen and repair damaged hair |
| Color Treatment Compatibility | Formulated for color treated and highlighted hair to maintain vibrancy and shine |
| Sulfate Content | Sulfate-free formula to prevent color stripping and damage |
| Application Focus | Designed to deliver salon-quality results with vibrant color, smoothness, and shine |
The moment I scooped out a bit of this treatment and ran it through my dry, highlighted strands, I immediately felt how lightweight it was. The silky texture glided smoothly, coating each strand without weighing it down.
It was a pleasant surprise to see how easily it spread, even on my thick, color-treated hair.
After leaving it in for a few minutes, my hair felt noticeably softer and more manageable. The shine it added was eye-catching, almost like I’d stepped out of a salon.
What really stood out was how vibrant my highlights looked afterward—more lively and less dull. It’s clear that the formula is gentle yet effective, especially since it’s sulfate-free and safe for color.
Using this treatment felt like giving my hair a nourishing spa day. The high protein content really worked to strengthen my damaged ends, which tend to be brittle with all the coloring.
I appreciated how it didn’t leave any greasy residue or weigh my hair down, making styling a breeze.
It’s versatile too—whether your hair is straight, wavy, or curly, you’ll find this suits all textures. Plus, it’s affordable for salon-quality results at home.
Honestly, I’ve tried a few treatments for dry highlighted hair, but this one hits all the right notes—repair, shine, and color protection.
What Causes Dryness in Highlighted Hair?
Dryness in highlighted hair can be caused by several factors, leading to the need for effective treatments.
- Chemical Damage: Highlighting involves the use of bleach or other chemicals that can strip hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and brittleness. These chemicals can modify the hair structure, making it more porous and less able to retain moisture.
- Heat Styling: Frequent use of heat styling tools like blow dryers, curling irons, and straighteners can further dehydrate highlighted hair. The high temperatures can break down the hair’s protective cuticle layer, resulting in increased moisture loss and dullness.
- Environmental Factors: Sun exposure, humidity, and even chlorine from swimming pools can adversely affect highlighted hair. UV rays can degrade hair color and moisture, while chlorine can strip away natural oils, exacerbating dryness.
- Inadequate Hair Care: Using the wrong products, such as shampoos with sulfates or lack of deep conditioning, can contribute to dry hair. Highlighted hair often requires specific care routines that include moisturizing shampoos and treatments to maintain hydration and health.
- Health and Nutrition: Overall health and diet play a crucial role in hair health. Deficiencies in essential nutrients like vitamins A, E, and omega-3 fatty acids can lead to dry and brittle hair, making it more susceptible to damage from highlighting.
How Can You Identify the Signs of Dry Highlighted Hair?
Identifying the signs of dry highlighted hair can help you find the best treatment for it.
- Rough Texture: Dry highlighted hair often feels coarse or rough to the touch, differing from the smooth texture of healthy hair. This roughness can be a result of the hair’s cuticle layer being damaged, allowing moisture to escape and making the strands feel brittle.
- Increased Frizz: When hair becomes dry, it loses its natural moisture, leading to increased frizz. This frizz occurs as the hair strands become more porous and unable to retain hydration, causing them to lift away from the hair shaft and create an unruly appearance.
- Split Ends: Another common sign of dry highlighted hair is the presence of split ends. The chemical processes involved in highlighting can weaken the hair, leading to splits and breaks at the ends, which can worsen if not addressed with proper care.
- Dullness: Healthy hair typically has a natural shine, but dry highlighted hair often appears dull or lifeless. This lack of luster is due to the hair’s inability to reflect light effectively, often resulting from a lack of moisture and essential oils.
- Breakage: Dry highlighted hair is prone to breakage as it becomes weaker over time. The stress from highlighting can exacerbate this issue, making the hair more fragile and susceptible to snapping, especially when styling or brushing.
- Color Fading: Highlighted hair that is dry may show signs of color fading more quickly. The lack of moisture can make it difficult for the color to adhere properly, leading to a washed-out appearance that requires more frequent touch-ups.
What Are the Most Effective Treatments for Nourishing Dry Highlighted Hair?
When dealing with dry highlighted hair, several effective treatments can rejuvenate and nourish your locks. Here are some of the best options:
-
Hydrating Masks: Look for deep conditioning masks that contain hydrating ingredients such as argan oil, shea butter, or avocado oil. These masks penetrate the hair shaft, restoring moisture and elasticity.
-
Leave-in Conditioners: Opt for lightweight leave-in conditioners that provide lasting moisture without weighing hair down. Ingredients such as coconut oil or aloe vera can help soothe and reduce frizz.
-
Hot Oil Treatments: Regular hot oil treatments using natural oils like olive, jojoba, or coconut oil can deeply nourish and revitalize dry hair. Warm the oil slightly, apply it evenly, and leave it on for at least 30 minutes before rinsing.
-
Protein Treatments: Highlighted hair can lose protein due to the chemical process and exposure to heat styling. Protein treatments, such as keratin-infused masks, can strengthen and repair damaged strands.
-
Regular Trims: Regularly trimming split ends can prevent further breakage and dryness, allowing your hair to appear healthier.
-
Gentle Shampoo: Use sulfate-free shampoos that are less harsh on your hair to help maintain moisture levels while cleansing.
Implementing these treatments can significantly improve the texture and appearance of dry highlighted hair.
Which Hair Masks Are Recommended for Dry Highlighted Hair?
Aloe Vera and Yogurt Mask: Aloe vera is renowned for its soothing qualities, making it a perfect addition to any hair treatment. When mixed with yogurt, which contains lactic acid, this mask promotes scalp health and strengthens hair, providing a good balance of hydration and nourishment.
Avocado Hair Mask: Rich in vitamins E and B, avocado aids in moisturizing dry hair effectively while also promoting elasticity. Its natural oils help to repair damage from coloring and styling, making it a great choice for maintaining highlighted hair.
Shea Butter Deep Conditioning Mask: Shea butter is a thick, creamy substance that provides intense moisture and softness. This mask helps to seal in hydration and can reduce frizz, making it ideal for dry, highlighted hair that requires extra attention and care.
How Do Oils Help in the Treatment of Dry Highlighted Hair?
Oils can significantly improve the condition of dry highlighted hair by providing moisture, nourishment, and protection.
- Coconut Oil: This oil is rich in fatty acids that penetrate the hair shaft, reducing protein loss and preventing breakage. It also has antimicrobial properties that can help maintain scalp health, ensuring a better environment for hair growth.
- Argan Oil: Known for its high vitamin E content, argan oil helps to hydrate and soften dry hair while also providing a protective barrier against heat and environmental damage. Its lightweight texture makes it ideal for adding shine without weighing hair down.
- Jojoba Oil: Mimicking the natural oils produced by the scalp, jojoba oil helps to balance moisture levels in dry highlighted hair. It also promotes better absorption of other nourishing ingredients, making it an excellent addition to hair care routines.
- Olive Oil: With its rich antioxidant properties, olive oil not only moisturizes dry hair but also helps to improve its elasticity and overall health. It can be used as a deep conditioning treatment to restore shine and manageability.
- Avocado Oil: Packed with vitamins and essential fatty acids, avocado oil penetrates deeply to nourish the hair and scalp, promoting softness and reducing frizz. Its ability to strengthen hair makes it particularly beneficial for highlighted strands that may be more prone to damage.
What Products Should Be Avoided to Prevent Further Damage to Highlighted Hair?
To maintain the integrity and health of dry highlighted hair, certain products should be avoided. These can exacerbate existing damage, leading to further dryness and breakage:
-
Sulfate-based Shampoos: These can strip natural oils, leading to increased dryness. Opt for sulfate-free shampoos that are gentler on color-treated hair.
-
Alcohol-heavy Products: Many styling products contain alcohol, which can dry out hair. Look for products labeled as ‘alcohol-free’ or those that use fatty alcohols instead, which are less drying.
-
Heat Styling Tools without Protection: Excessive heat from flat irons and curling wands can worsen dryness. Always use a heat protectant spray before styling to shield your hair.
-
Abrasive Clarifying Shampoos: While these can remove buildup, they often do so aggressively, which can lead to further drying. Limit their use and choose milder alternatives designed for color-treated hair.
-
Too Many Chemical Treatments: Avoid combining multiple chemical processes, such as coloring, perming, or relaxing, which can lead to significant damage and dryness.
Prioritizing gentle products and minimizing exposure to damaging agents will help preserve the health of highlighted hair.
What Best Practices Should You Follow for Maintaining Healthy Highlighted Hair?
To maintain healthy highlighted hair, certain best practices are essential.
- Use a sulfate-free shampoo: Sulfates can strip hair of its natural oils, which is particularly detrimental for highlighted hair. Choosing a sulfate-free shampoo helps retain moisture and color vibrancy, making it a gentler option for cleansing.
- Deep conditioning treatments: Regular deep conditioning treatments help restore moisture and repair damage caused by highlighting. These treatments penetrate the hair shaft, delivering essential nutrients and hydration that can improve texture and manageability.
- Limit heat styling: Excessive heat can lead to further damage and dryness in highlighted hair. Reducing the use of heat styling tools, or using them on a low setting, can help preserve the integrity of the hair while maintaining its highlighted appearance.
- Use leave-in conditioners: Leave-in conditioners provide ongoing hydration and protection throughout the day. They can help detangle hair and reduce frizz, making it easier to manage while also providing a barrier against environmental damage.
- Protect hair from sun exposure: UV rays can fade color and dry out hair, so using hair products with UV protection or wearing hats can shield highlighted hair. Additionally, limiting time in direct sunlight can help maintain both color and moisture levels.
- Regular trims: Keeping hair trimmed every six to eight weeks can help eliminate split ends and prevent further damage. Regular trims ensure that highlighted hair remains healthy and looks vibrant, as damaged ends can detract from the overall appearance.
- Stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet: Healthy hair starts from within, so drinking plenty of water and consuming a diet rich in vitamins and minerals is crucial. Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, proteins, and vitamins A, C, and E can support hair health and enhance the appearance of highlighted locks.