What’s the Difference Between the K18 Hair Mask vs Olaplex No.3?
When exploring the world of hair care, particularly hair treatments aimed at repairing and revitalising damaged hair, two standout products often come into the conversation: K18 and Olaplex No.3. But which is best for you? Let’s explore their differences.
1. The K18 Hair Mask is a Leave-In Treatment
The K18 leave-in hair mask is designed to reverse hair damage from chemical treatments, heat, and mechanical styling, restoring strength, softness, smoothness, and bounce to the hair.
K18 is a leave-in hair mask designed to reverse damage from chemicals, heat, and styling by deeply repairing keratin chains within the hair. Keratin is crucial for hair's strength and health. By focusing on this core component, K18 not only repairs but also restores hair structure from the inside, resulting in stronger, softer, and smoother hair. Unlike traditional conditioners that address only surface damage, K18 provides a deep and lasting repair solution.
2. Olaplex No.3 is a Pre-Shampoo Treatment
As a pre-shampoo treatment suitable for all hair types, Olaplex No.3 not only repairs damage but also protects against future issues, improving hair’s health, strength, and appearance with regular use.
Olaplex Hair Perfector No.3 is aimed at repairing and strengthening hair by restoring broken disulfide bonds at a molecular level. These bonds are essential for hair’s resilience but can break down due to chemical treatments, heat styling, and environmental stress.
3. How They Repair Hair
K18 targets keratin chains that are crucial for hair's structural integrity, while Olaplex No.3 restores disulfide bonds that are crucial for hair's strength and resilience. K18 is a leave-in treatment that provides deep repair, while Olaplex No.3 is a pre-shampoo treatment that protects the hair. Both are valuable additions to a hair care routine, with their unique benefits catering to different aspects of hair health.
4. How Often Should They Should Be Used
For the K18 Leave-In Molecular Repair Hair Mask, it’s recommended to use it for the first 4 to 6 consecutive washes to deeply repair and restore your hair. After this initial intensive repair phase, you can reduce the frequency to every 3-4 washes to maintain your hair's condition. It’s important to adjust based on your hair’s response and needs.
In contrast, Olaplex No.3 Hair Perfector is designed for weekly use as part of your regular hair care routine. For damaged hair, it might be beneficial to start with applications 2-3 times a week to maximise repair. As the hair's health improves, you can decrease the frequency to once a week to maintain strength, resilience, and protection against future damage.
Similar to K18, it's essential to consider your hair's specific needs and response to the treatment when determining how often to use Olaplex No.3 and consult the product's recommendations for the best approach.
How to Use K18 Hair Treatment?
- Don’t use conditioner after shampooing.
- Towel dry your hair to remove excess water.
- Apply a pea-sized amount (adjust based on hair length and thickness) evenly through your hair.
- Wait 4 minutes for the mask to work.
- Do not rinse out the mask - brush and style your hair as normal.
How to Use Olaplex No.3?
- Wet your hair and towel dry it to remove excess water.
- Apply Olaplex No.3 generously from roots to ends on damp, towel-dried hair.
- Comb through for even distribution.
- Leave the treatment in your hair for at least 10 minutes. You can leave it on for up to 90 minutes for severely damaged hair.
- Rinse out thoroughly from your hair.
- Follow up with your regular shampooing and conditioning routine.
- Use once a week or 2-3 times a week for severely damaged hair, adjusting frequency as your hair's health improves.
Is K18 Better Than Olaplex?
Comparing K18 and Olaplex depends on your hair's needs. K18 is best for internal repair, while Olaplex repairs and rebuilds disulfide bonds, making it a good option for overall strength and resilience. Both products are suitable for all hair types. The choice depends on hair type and desired outcome.
Where To Buy K18 or Olaplex in Ireland?
If you're looking to buy K18 or Olaplex in Ireland, there’s no better place than here at Shaws Department Stores. We’re known for carrying a wide range of beauty and hair care products, including top brands like K18 and Olaplex.
You can find Shaws locations across Ireland, making visiting a store near you convenient.