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Fromploppingtofrizz-fighting dental floss, there is no shortage of hair trends on social media.

However, it can be hard to determine which products and techniques actually work.

Woman with curly hair touching face

Recently, there has been some debate about whether hair oil or hair masks are better fornatural hair.

Before we go any further, here are a few need-to-know basics.

Anyone can use hair masks or hair oils.

woman applying hair oil

Natural hair, especially gorgeous 4C hair, doesn’t hold onto moisture easily.

What are hair oils?

Popular options often rely on natural ingredients like argan oil, coconut oil, andJamaican black castor oil.

woman rinsing hair mask

These solutions are worked into your hair somewhere during your wash routine.

Generally, the oil is onlyapplied to your scalpand the ends of your hair.

Although, not all natural hair experts are ready to run to the store for oil products.

Some advise that hair oils aren’t as conditioning or hydrating as a hair mask.

What is a hair mask?

A hair mask can be thought of as adeep conditioningtreatment.

It’s ideal for dry, brittle, or damaged hair.

Because its combination of ingredients claims to help not only hydrate your hair, but nourish it too.

Those with natural hair claim masks can increase shine, promote thickness, decrease itch, and encourage length.

Hair masks are applied from root to tip, unlike hair oils.

Hair masks contain naturally-derived and synthetic ingredients that condition, hydrate, and nourish.

They can include butters, silicone, plant extracts, and, you guessed it hair oils.

Ultimately, your hair key in and concerns play a big role in selecting products.

However, masks remain the easiest all-in-one solution for various hair needs and types.