Will my hair smell like tar after I rinse out the mask? — NK hair mask Tar 300 ml

Yes, birch tar has a noticeable smoky scent during and right after application. This comes from the naturally occurring phenols and resins in birch tar, and it is part of what makes the product recognizable. The good news is that the characteristic tar smell fades as the hair dries — it does not usually stay strong all day.

If you are sensitive to smells, a few practical things can help. Apply the mask only to the scalp and hair rather than inhaling deeply from the jar. Rinse with plenty of water, and follow with your usual neutral shampoo if your routine allows. Washing the hair after the tar mask can remove the smoky note more quickly, though it also shortens the contact time slightly. Some people prefer to use the tar mask before shampooing for this reason.

The scent is strongest while the mask is still on the skin and becomes much weaker once the hair is dry. If you are trying tar for the first time, use it on a day when you do not have to go out immediately; that gives your hair enough time to dry and lets you judge how much smell remains.

Avoid the eyes and any broken or irritated skin, and stop if the smell is accompanied by discomfort.