If you’ve read my previous post on the hair care habits that transformed my hair, you already know I’m a big believer in intentional treatments. Today, I want to dive deeper into one of the most effective approaches I use — the hair care schedule (or cronograma capilar in Portuguese).
This method balances three types of hair masks according to your hair’s needs, so your strands always get the right mix of hydration, nutrition, and reconstruction.
The Three Types of Hair Masks
1. Reconstruction Masks
Reconstruction masks are packed with proteins, collagen, amino acids, keratin, arginine, and elastin. They restore lost protein in the hair fiber, making them essential for damaged or chemically treated hair.
But there’s a catch: overusing them can make your hair feel stiff, heavy, and even brittle. These are the masks you should use the least often in your schedule.
2. Nutrition Masks
Nutrition masks replenish lipids (your hair’s natural oils) and usually contain argan oil, shea butter, and other nourishing emollients. They add softness, shine, and help control frizz by sealing the cuticle.
These are especially beneficial for curly, coily, or frizz-prone hair.
3. Hydration Masks
Hydration masks deliver moisture with ingredients like panthenol and hyaluronic acid. They’re perfect for dry hair, helping restore water to the fiber and maintain elasticity.
These can be used the most frequently in your routine.
How to Build Your Hair Care Schedule
A balanced schedule usually follows this priority:
- Most frequent: Hydration
- Second most frequent: Nutrition
- Least frequent: Reconstruction
By rotating between these masks, you ensure your hair gets water, oils, and proteins in the right proportion. This balance is the secret to that healthy, glossy look Brazilian women are famous for — even when they use lots of hair coloring or chemical treatments.
Why Application Time Matters More Than You Think
Here’s a mistake I made for years: leaving masks on for way too long.
For example, one of my favorite reconstruction masks — Kérastase Résistance Therapiste (dark green jar) — made my hair feel greasy, heavy, and stiff at first. I even had the same issue when a top salon applied it.
Later, I realized I was ignoring the manufacturer’s instructions: the mask should be left on for only 3–5 minutes. I was leaving it for 30 minutes!
Once I followed the directions, the results completely changed — my hair became soft, bouncy, and strong.
In general (though not always):
- Hydration masks can stay a bit longer.
- Nutrition masks should stay less time.
- Reconstruction masks have the shortest recommended time.
Always read the label — the science behind each formula depends on proper timing.
My Favorite Hair Mask Brands
Over the years, I’ve tried many, but my staples are:
- Wella (especially for hydration)
- Kérastase (for targeted, high-performance treatments)
- L’Oréal Absolut Repair line (rich, salon-level results at home)
I keep a mix of hydration, nutrition, and reconstruction masks from these brands to rotate through the month.
Extra Hair Care Tips That Make a Difference
- pH-balancing treatments: Use occasionally to keep cuticles sealed and hair looking smooth.
- Always use heat protectant before blow-drying or styling.
- Switch to a hair turban or cotton T-shirt instead of a towel to reduce frizz and keep moisture in longer.
Final Thoughts
A hair care schedule isn’t just a routine — it’s a strategy. When you balance hydration, nutrition, and reconstruction, your hair gets everything it needs to look and feel its best.
The key is knowing what your hair needs that day and following product instructions closely. Trust me — this one change can completely transform your results.
