Trader Joe's Shea Butter & Coconut Oil Hair Mask

I preface this post with a disclaimer: I'm no beauty guru. And if there's one area that I really know nothing about - it's hair. I've tried several "5 minute hairstyle" tutorials from youtube. Can't say they turn out quite like the videos, and they usually definitely take at least 20 minutes. Soooo call me low maintenance.

When this hair mask first came out earlier this year, I had no use for it. For most of my life, I haven't really used hair product other than your basic shampoo and conditioner. And what one does with hairspray? Idk man. That stuff I buy once a year for an event, which I don't know how to use anyway, and then it sits in my cabinet collecting dust. But since I also had my hair colored this year, I've found that my hair has become a bit dry. Blame it on the lack of chemicals in my natural, sulfate-free shampoos. The TJ's spa conditioner was fair on my natural, straight Asian hair, but on colored hair it really doesn't help the dry texture much. Hair mask it is.  

I've been using this in the shower a few times a week. There's definitely a good amount of instant gratification with applying the product. The shea and coconut fragrance is so fresh and clean, and it feels so luxurious and moisturizing combing it through my hair. The after effects, however, are kinda meh. Like so many things you see on social media - the moment of the gram looks so nice, but the before and after might not be so glam in real life. After all the product has been rinsed through and my hair has dried, I honestly can't tell the difference between my pre and post-hair masked hair. I mean...maybe it's a little softer and moisturized? If I squeeze my eyes tight enough and imagine hard enough, then maybe? The result is marginally better than just using the straight TJ's conditioner. Shrug.

I've never used a hair mask before, because I've never had the need. So those who have please enlighten me - do these hair masks actually make a tangible difference? I wouldn't say it's a bad product, but it's underwhelming. If you have dry hair or color-treated hair, I imagine you'll find this lackluster too. But can't ask for much at the $3.99 price point. Personally, I wouldn't repurchase but I'd consider going the DIY coconut and castor oil route instead.

TL;DR: Trader Joe's Shea Butter & Coconut Oil Hair Mask. A very marginal lift to dry, color-treated hair. Meh. 6 out of 10. Mantou Joe Repurchase? Pass.