Iv San Bernard Mint mask, 1 L is a rinse-off mask with peppermint leaf extract and vitamin B6 for dogs and cats with any coat type. According to the description, it refreshes, renews, nourishes, moisturises and tones the coat and skin, leaving the coat groomed and glossy. Apply it to a clean damp coat after shampoo, leave for 5–10 minutes and rinse with water. It is made for professional use and has been microbiologically tested.
What the manufacturer claims
Iv San Bernard calls the Mint mask universal: it suits any coat type and should revitalise and tone the coat. Its natural partner is Iv San Bernard Mint shampoo, after which the manufacturer recommends using the mask.
Key specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | rinse-off mask |
| For | dogs and cats with any coat |
| Base | cetearyl alcohol, cetrimonium chloride, simethicone |
| Active ingredients | peppermint leaf extract, vitamin B6 |
| Preservative | phenoxyethanol |
| Colourants | CI 19140, CI 42080, CI 42090 |
| Contact time | 5–10 minutes |
| Volume | 1 L |
Pros
- Real mint inside. Peppermint extract is clearly listed.
- Vitamin B6. Pyridoxine is in the formula.
- For any coat. One mask for different pets.
- Anti-static. Cetrimonium chloride makes brushing easier.
- No DMDM hydantoin. Unlike the shampoo in the line, the only preservative is phenoxyethanol.
- Large volume. A litre lasts a long time.
Cons and what to watch
- Dyes and benzyl salicylate. Unnecessary for sensitive skin.
- Vague promises. "Renews, revitalises, nourishes" — with no specifics.
- Errors in the name. The listing title mixes languages.
- Must be rinsed. It is not a spray or a leave-in product.
Mask or conditioner
The Iv San Bernard mask has a base similar to a conditioner: cetearyl alcohol softens, cetrimonium chloride reduces static and simethicone adds slip. The difference is contact time and intensity: a mask stays on for 5–10 minutes rather than 2–3. This is more noticeable on dry and long coats; for smooth-coated dogs the difference is minimal.
How to apply it
After shampooing, squeeze out the water. Massage the mask along the whole length of the coat, especially into the ends and areas prone to tangles. Leave for 5–10 minutes: the minimum is enough for short coats, while long and dry coats need closer to the maximum. Then rinse thoroughly and dry the coat.
Mint and how it feels
Peppermint gives a light cooling effect and a fresh smell. Most animals do not notice it, but some sensitive pets become restless or start scratching. If after the mask your dog rubs its face on the floor or licks itself a lot, rinse off the residue and choose a product without mint.
For cats
The mask can be used on cats, but rinse it off especially well: cats groom themselves and do not need fragrance and dyes. More about bathing in how to bathe a cat.
Other masks of the brand
If the mint line does not suit you, Iv San Bernard has masks with other actives: Black Cherry for short coats and Ginger & Elderberry with ginger and elderberry. For badly damaged coats the brand also offers restoring masks with argan oil.
How often to use it
Apply the mask after every shampoo. Base the bathing frequency on the state of the skin and coat, and during shedding spend more time brushing — see autumn shedding in dogs and cats.
Who it suits
The mask suits dogs and cats with any coat that are washed with the mint shampoo from the same line — especially with dry coats and static. Allergy-prone pets and animals that dislike strong smells are better off with a mask without mint and dyes. Other products are in Iv San Bernard and shampoos and conditioners.
Verdict
Iv San Bernard Mint is a universal rinse-off mask with mint extract and vitamin B6 that softens the coat and reduces static. The downsides are dyes, benzyl salicylate, vague "revitalising" promises and a mint smell that not every pet likes.
FAQ
How long should the mask stay on?
5–10 minutes, then rinse with water.
Which coat is it for?
According to the description, any coat.
Can I use it without shampoo?
The mask is applied to a clean washed coat, so after shampoo.
Is it suitable for cats?
Yes, if rinsed thoroughly.
Does it contain mint?
Yes, peppermint leaf extract.
How is a mask different from a conditioner?
It stays on longer — 5–10 minutes — and the care is more intensive.
Does the mask protect against fleas?
No, it contains no anti-parasite ingredients.
