10 DIY Hair Masks for Defined Curls

Ever wish your curls could look even more defined, bouncy, and all around more manageable? Turns out, the secret weapon might be hiding right in your kitchen!

I am so excited to finally share these DIY curly hair mask recipes with you!

You likely already have a curly hair routine, but occasionally, we just need to give our hair a little extra boost. And I think a curly hair mask is just what we may need for that little bit of love and nourishment.

I typically use one of my DIY hair masks a couple of times a month. If nothing else, it’s a wonderful chance to just slow down and spend half an hour doing something you enjoy. After all, you deserve it, and your curls will thank you.

So, pick from any one of these hair masks; there are plenty of options to choose from, ten to be exact. Whether you are looking to boost the definition and volume or add shine to your curls, there is a mask here for what your curls need most.

Deep Hydration Mask (Honey & Avocado)

This creamy mask is all about moisture! It harnesses the powers of avocado and honey to bring back any lost shine and protect against heat and environmental stressors.

• 1 ripe avocado, mashed
• 1 tablespoon (0.5 oz) honey
• 1 tablespoon (0.5 oz) olive oil

1. Combine mashed avocado, honey, and olive oil in a bowl until smooth.
2. Apply to clean, damp hair.
3. Leave on for 20-30 min.
4. Rinse clean with cool water.

Shine Boosting Mask (Banana & Yogurt)

Dull hair disappears thanks to the protein, natural oils, and lactic acid in this lightweight mask. 

• 1/2 ripe banana, mashed
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon (0.5 oz) almond oil

1. Add mashed banana, yogurt, and almond oil to a bowl and mix until there are no lumps.
2. Apply to clean, damp hair. Section your hair if it makes it easier.
3. Leave it on for 20-30 min and relax.
4. Rinse clean with cool water.

Frizz-Fighting Mask (Apple Cider Vinegar & Coconut Oil)

Say goodbye to frizzy hair with this mask that both clarifies and deeply moisturizes to enhance shine.

• 2 tablespoons (1 oz) apple cider vinegar (diluted with water)
• 2 tablespoons (1 oz) coconut oil
• 1 tablespoon (0.5 oz) honey

1. Combine apple cider vinegar, coconut oil, and honey until the mixture is smooth.
2. Apply to clean, damp hair.
3. Leave on for 20-30 min. This one is a little runny, so you may want to wear a shower cap to keep everything in place.
4. Use cool water to rinse your hair clean.

Curl-Defining Mask (Flaxseed oil & Aloe Vera)

The ultimate in deep conditioning, this shine-boosting combination works hard to keep your curls healthy and make your color look its best. 

• 2 tablespoons (1 oz) flaxseed oil
• 1/4 cup (2 oz) aloe vera gel
• 1 tablespoon (0.5 oz) shea butter

1. If needed, melt the shea butter slightly, then combine all the ingredients in a small bowl.
2. Apply to clean, damp hair in sections.
3. Leave on for 20-30 min.
4. Use cool water to rinse your hair clean.

Protein Power Mask (Egg & Greek Yogurt)

Curly hair craves protein, which helps prevent breakage and keeps your curls soft and bouncy. While some opt for a DIY protein hair treatment, this mask offers a similar alternative, delivering the protein your curls need without compromising softness.

• 1 whole egg
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon (0.5 oz) olive oil

1. Combine egg, yogurt, and olive oil until mixed thoroughly.
2. Apply to clean, damp, towel-dried hair.
3. Leave on for 20-30 min. You may want to use a shower cap for this one.
4. Be sure to use cool water to rinse your hair clean, and follow up with shampoo and conditioner for this mask because of the raw egg.

Scalp Soothing Mask (Coconut Oil & Peppermint Oil)

Soothe your scalp, stimulate hair growth, and condition your curls while enjoying a spa-worthy aromatherapy experience. 

• 2 tablespoons (1 oz) coconut oil
• 2-3 drops peppermint essential oil

1. Combine coconut oil and peppermint oil in a small bowl.
2. Apply to clean, damp, towel-dried hair.
3. Leave on for 20-30 min.
4. Use cool water to rinse your hair clean.

Note: some people may be sensitive to peppermint. Always patch test before applying this to your hair.

Color-Protecting Mask (Avocado & Mayonnaise)

The ultimate in deep conditioning, this shine-boosting combination includes omega-3 fatty acids to keep your curls beautiful and make your color look its best. 

• 1/2 ripe avocado, mashed
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

1. Mix the avocado, mayo, and lemon juice in a small bowl.
2. Apply to clean, damp, towel-dried hair. You can section your hair if that makes application easier.
3. Leave on for 20-30 min.
4. Be sure to use cool water to thoroughly rinse your hair clean.

Note: lemon juice can naturally lighten hair and, in some cases, may cause skin irritation. Always perform a patch test before using this hair mask.

Overnight Curl Enhancer (Rice Water & Honey)

Even though it feels thinner than a typical mask, this lightweight, nutrient-rich rice water overnight treatment is just what your curls need to reduce frizz and help with detangling your hair.

• 1/2 cup (4 oz) rice water
• 1 tablespoon (0.5 oz) honey
• 1 tablespoon (0.5 oz) jojoba oil

1. Mix rice water, honey, and jojoba oil.
2. Apply to clean, damp hair. You can work in sections if it makes the application easier.
3. Leave on overnight. I highly suggest laying a towel down over your pillow to prevent stains.
4. Use cool water to rinse your hair clean.

You can learn more about the benefits of rice water for your hair here.

Volume Boosting Mask

While rosemary is well known for promoting hair growth, according to this article, it’s also great for frizzy hair!

• 1/2 tablespoon (0.25 oz) apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 tablespoon (0.25 oz) water
• 1 tablespoon (0.5 oz) jojoba oil
• 8 drops of rosemary essential oil

1. Combine the ingredients in a small bowl.
2. Apply to clean, damp hair. You can work in sections if it makes the application easier.
3. Leave on for 20-30 min.
4. Rinse your hair clean with cool water.

Lightweight Curl Refresher (Aloe Vera & Leave-in Conditioner)

Soft, springy curls can be yours with this lightweight mask that restores moisture and shine.

• 1/4 cup (2 oz) aloe vera gel
• 2 tablespoons (1 oz) leave-in conditioner
• A few drops of your favorite essential oil (optional)

1. Combine aloe vera gel, leave-in conditioner, and essential oils till mixed thoroughly.
2. Apply to clean, damp hair.
3. Leave on for 20-30 min.
4. Use cool water to rinse your hair clean.

Pro Tips

Always perform a patch test

Before using any of the DIY mask recipes for the first time, apply a small amount of the mask to your inner arm to test for any reactions or sensitivities.

Protect your clothing

Although these recipes are designed to minimize staining, it’s always a wise precaution to wear a shirt you wouldn’t mind getting a stain on.

Having a shower cap handy will catch any drips and keep things clean. Plus, it can actually help your hair absorb the mask better, making it more effective!

The cool water rinse

These masks are deeply nourishing and you want to rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water to avoid weighing your curls down. You might be tempted to use warm water, but cool or cold water is best, especially for the protein-rich egg mask recipe.

You can follow up with your regular conditioner and shampoo as needed.

FAQ

Benefits of a DIY hair mask for curly hair

• Remove product build-up for increased bounce and shine
• Prevent frizz, dullness, and breakage by replenishing moisture
• Adds nutrients to strengthen hair structure
• Balancing pH to smooth the cuticle for smooth and manageable curls
• Nourish the hair follicles for healthy hair growth and prevent breakage
• No harsh chemicals or additives to further damage your hair

Indulge your waves and curls with more DIY hair care:

• DIY Curl Cream
• DIY Leave-in Conditioner
• DIY Detangler Spray

If you made one of these recipes and loved it, I would love for you to come back and give it five stars! And don’t forget to tag me on Instagram @our_oily_house.

Sources:

• Peppermint EO: Healthline.com
• Rosemary EO: NIH