Products you buy through our links may earn us a commission. Oh, and if something's out of stock, oops, it was there (and all prices were accurate) at time of publication.
What I Tested...
Amika Soulfood Nourishing Hair Mask ($36)
Why I Tested...
How I Tested...
I have thick, wavy hair. Per the instructions, I used this hair mask once a week for four weeks after washing (with my trusty Tresemmé shampoo). I left it in for the recommended time (5-7 minutes) and rinsed completely afterwards, before letting my hair air dry.
Test Results:
Fast-acting. After one use, my hair was so shiny it was practically reflective. Amika’s signature blend of sea buckthorn and jojoba seed oil lives up to its claim to soften hair. My hair felt luxurious to the touch, but also weightless. I kept asking my friends to “feel my hair,” because I was that excited about it.
Scent. This mask smells great. The scent has notes of apricot, vanilla, pink grapefruit, and sandalwood, but it’s not overpowering. It worked well with my other scented hair products and left me feeling clean and fresh for days.
Mask consistency. I was skeptical about this mask, since the only real issue I’ve had is that my hair can get oily and I was worried it would weigh it down. But the consistency is just like regular hair conditioner and not at all goopy. That said, a little goes a long way here.
Lasting benefits. After a month, I can confidently say that I relish my hair’s newfound silkiness. Since it looks so clean and healthy after using it once a week, I can actually get away with waiting longer in between wash days.
Sidenotes...
Product design. I tested the 8-ounce size. When you open the tub, there’s a plastic cover with a small tab for easy lifting. Since I’m applying this mask in the shower, my hands are typically slippery, which makes opening the cover a slight pain. I now just keep a small towel nearby for better grip. But I do appreciate the fact that the packaging is made with 30% post consumer recyclables.
Price. $36 for a mask seems hefty for me these days, but after four uses, I feel like I’ve barely made a dent. This will last me a while.
Hair-inclusive formulas. Not only are all of Amika’s hair masks color- and keratin-safe, but they also have unique formulas for a variety of hair needs. Like Bust Your Brass for blonde, silver, and gray hair; the The Kure for damaged hair; and Hydro Rush for dry, textured, or coarse hair.
The Fine Details...
Amika Soulfood Nourishing Hair Mask ($36)
Available in 2-ounce, 3.3-ounce, and 16-ounce sizes
Live Smarter
Sign up for the Daily Skimm email newsletter. Delivered to your inbox every morning and prepares you for your day in minutes.