K18 ALL THE WAY!!!! I’ve used both. Bought the entire Olaplex system. Used it for the last 2yrs. Very time consuming but happy with end result. Started using K18 a week ago and I’m a complete convert. Time saving and money saving + end result is beyond anything I could have hoped for. K18 forever!!! 💗💗💗
Hair stylist here! I watched your K18 review and I’d like to give a helpful tip with application. :) I noticed you applied the cream to all of your hair while it was down and you mentioned that it was hard because your hair was so tangly. What would really help with this step is to detangle your hair first starting at the ends and working your way up, either with a Wet brush, or a wide tooth comb; after you have detangled your hair, apply K18 in “sections,” clipping up the rest of the hair so it is out of the way, and then comb the product through for even distribution on each section. It will be difficult for all of your hair to get full saturation if you don’t do it this way only because your hair is so long and thick. Hope this was helpful. I know I’m late so you might not even see this. Lol!
@@tarafotty3149 It may be hard, but, its especially hard when you aren’t working in sections. If you were to use this product- Dampen the hair first, then use a wet brush in sections starting on the ends and working your way up. It makes using these K18 products easier. 👍 It takes patience, though, so this product is not for everyone to take home.
Thank you so much for this advice there is not much product with it being under 2 oz and I definitely want to do it the right way. Am so excited to try this product. I can't wait to see which one I like best do you have an opinion?
I second this. That's what I do with olapex no 3 and curlsmith bond rehab salve👍🏻. I use like half the amount of product I would normally use on tangled hair. And I have thick curly hair so it is hard to detangle but as long as you are gentle and start at the ends I don't see a problem in doing it that way. Plus it's worth it when you are saving product=saving money, especially ones that cost $$ 💰💸
Sweet Abbey, the quality of your information is just top notch! Everywhere in the world (and especially your country), we need more data, facts, truth, rational analysis, science, and reality. It keeps us, the ones we love, and the future happier and safer ... and that includes hair! Bless your heart, and thank you! You're a lovely young woman.
So... I have olaplex 2 and K18. I thought I’d try a double punch approach. I have fine hair that’s down to my waist and live in London, where the water is so hard it challenges you to a fight every time you turn on the tap (despite having a shower filter). I used Bumble and Bumble’s weekend shampoo and then applied olaplex 2. Left it on for ten mins and then washed it out with Fanola shampoo, skipping conditioner. I applied the K18 to towel dried hair, left it for the 4 mins and then used my usual spray detangler/heat protectant (living proof) and blow dried my hair. My hair felt amazingly healthy and swishy but it made it so soft that my hair would not hold a curl (a problem I don’t usually have). So, yes, the double attack mode definitely works but be prepared for your hair to be too soft to hold a curl.
I do exactly the same on my long fine colour treated hair. Olaplex 2, wash then K18. This double hit approach works wonders for me. So glad I’ve come across someone else who does the sam 😊
So glad you shared that bc I have 3c hair that was a 2&3a after bleaching (while using Olaplex) but I didn't mind that because I've had this hair forever. Keke. But once I started using k18 I have a full head of curls. This did not happen with Olaplex. And I just bleached my roots and my curls were back after I washed on the 2nd day. But before that I did use the Bumble invisible oil pre poo. mask overnight. Then shampooed and them k18. Voila hair like it wasn't bleached. So I may consider keeping Olaplex on hand to loosen my curls! Thank you! Brilliant.
K18 for me hands down! I have completely abandoned my Olaplex products.😄 My hair feels completely transformed with K18. Also, I have 2 small children so I can't be doing my hair all day. K18 makes it so I still get to pamper my hair without all of the time and shower hopping involved. Better results with less time and effort? Yes, please!
I have used olaplex for years! I have very dry damaged hair from bleaching. However I have to say K18 “IS” the clear winner for me. It has absolutely improved my hair out of sight. It has enabled me to grow my hair and it looks sooo healthy. The other benefit of K18 IMO is that you don’t have to leave in a mask that is required to be rinsed out like the olaplex no. 3. I love the convenience of simply stepping out of the shower, applying the K18 leave in product (which in my experience is very conditioning) style my hair and go. No sitting around waiting in my dressing gown or needing to be rinsed out the next day depending on how long you prefer to leave the No.3 in for. If you can afford K18 I would definitely recommend. I still love to use the olaplex oil before heat styling though!
Yes sweet sweet Abbey. Well done as always. I've used Olaplex for close to 3 years & k18 for 3 months. My bit on price> Olaplex $40CA + a good mask. $40+$40. And, K18 $89 & done. I have coily, bleached blonde hair (from darkest brown). To solve the the tangle prob. Simply smooth on hair. By the time I spread each of the four sections I divide my hair into. (Not easy because hair is completely knotted since no conditioner was used) more over I use a clarifying shampoo with NO conditioning agents as per k18 recommendation (I emailed them). I would say about 30secs to a minute after spreading/smoothing it on the hair, it is untangled and I can run my fingers through no problem. Then I wait the 4 minutes to apply other styling products. With Olaplex I have to use very specific products to achieve a good hair day. With K18 I can use products I bought but didn't quite work as desired in the past including with Olaplex. With Olaplex i dont actually see results but after having stopped a few times to see if I really needed it, it definitely keeps the hair strong. With K18 I see results. Strong, light, soft, shiny, voluminous and frizz free for at least the 2/3 days after washing. I don't really go more days then that without washing. The first 2 months I used k18, six consecutive washes and then alternated with Olaplex. All was good. I had just stocked on Olaplex a week before purchasing k18 so I decided I would alternate with k18 until I finished my stock of Olaplex. But I couldn't believe the results I was getting from just k18. That I decided not to use Olaplex and see the difference. With K18 my hair keeps looking better & better. My curls are just a good as my hair in my twenties. But I'm bleached blonde now. Aaand, I have also lost a lot of hair in the past 7 years since my mom passed away. But hair looks fuller, light & shiny. I also have few tangles & I don't brush (curly) but I can put my fingers through my hair on dry hair. I did this because I was applying the Bumble &bumble invisible oil pre poo after I recently got my roots done (bleached). This mask pre poo is fabulous. But it just seems like everything works better with k18. I had bought a few styling products in the past that I didn't love as mentioned earlier. They were ok but that's it so I would only use them on my second no wash hair. Now Im using these 4 unloved products on my wash day just to use them up. The takeaway? If you can't afford the time, energy or money to buy styling products, with K18 don't worry about it. For reference I do only use salon products. I'm not sure about drugstore... But I do hear that these days they are much better than 15 + years ago. Finally (sorry so long). Price is about the same. For now I will not be buying Olaplex. I will use it again when I run out of k18... I have Olaplex 3, 6, 7, 8. All great products. But for me 3& 7, 8 are excellent But Just doesn't compare to k18. Even after this last bleach, there was a huge difference between using Olaplex before during and after bleaching and just using k18 after bleaching. Hair is Curly and smoother, shinier and voluminous. Price is almost the same but results don't compare. As for use, k18 takes a little time to get used to because you don't condition. But I prefer that to leaving on Olaplex for 1 hour.
Which clarifying shampoo with no conditioning agents are you using? I might give k18 another try. I saw no big difference on my damaged, bleached curls with k18 as i saw from the very first use of olaplex 3, was insane the result i had. Maybe because with k18 i was not using the right shampoo and because now my hair is way more healthy and strong, i stopped doing any chemical process on it for almost a year, just like 3-4 silk presses.
Hey I have coily hair too and I loooove K18! Thankfully I only invested in a few Olaplex products before switching over to K18. I have no desire to go back to Olaplex. My results with K18 are DRAMATIC! This doesn't even feel or look like my hair. It's so smooth, shiney, bouncy, and holds moisture longer. I straighten my natural hair every single week and instead of it looking more and more damaged like it usually does it's doing the opposite and looking better and better. I'm only on my 3rd use too. I cannot wait to see how my hair will look and feel after the 6th use.
@@SakuraBlossoms44 Joico has a good clarifying/chelating shampoo in the Kpak line. I can only find it on Amazon though. It straps all the gunk away but doesn't leave the hair feeling like a brillo pad. That's what I used the first time I used K18 and I got great results. Olaplex was pretty good for me but K18 is even better.
@@cfoster6804 Thanks for the reply. "Brillo pad" i totally get it OMG hahaahaha! I asked the k18 team on instagram about using l'oreal metal detox shampoo which i just bought and they told me is really good. I aim to grow back my curls long and healthy but do a silk press once a month. No more bleach or ammonia color for me.
@@SakuraBlossoms44 k18 recommended Kevin Murphy maxi wash, Neutrogena clarifying & Malibu C goo in doo. I chose Malibu C for my hair. Gentle. Depending on where you live k18 recommends products that are sold in my area, Canada, BC
I'm using olapex 8 as a leave-in after normal shampoo and conditioner and that works well for softness and detangling. I know that's not the recommendation, but it works for my fine, tangly, dry, wavy hair. The recommended way doesn't work as well.
I agree. I thought it was only me. The recommended way doesn't really work for me. But when i use it as leave in in my curly hair, it conditions my hair. But you have to apply a tiny bit.
I have virgin fine hair and use K18 occasionally to retain the structure of my hair follicles intact and healthy. No split ends whatsoever on my past shoulder length hair and gives natural shine. It's expensive but worth it for me. Olaplex is good but just washes out each time. K18 permanently repairs so it's a winner for me.
I’d definitely be interested in trying K18 but that price point is way out of range!! Loving your comparison of the two though. I really like using Olaplex #3, I probably go through a bottle of Olaplex #3 a month cause I have such long hair! Xx
I have used both and I only need to use about 1/3 of the amount of K18hair that I do of Olaplex! Something to consider if you are looking at price. Also after the initial few uses you only use K18hair every 4 washes or so…when I was only using Olaplex I felt like I needed to use it every time since I only wash once a week. I do like them both but now I only use Olaplex every 4 washes too, so overall I think I am saving money and have better hair.
Unfortunately, Olaplex 3 didn't work for me. I used up an entire bottle and saw no improvement in my hair. That's okay though, I don't expect it to work for everyone. I decided to try K18 and I noticed significant results after the FIRST use. From then on, it just continued to get better and better. I'm so glad I decided to give it a chance even though it's $92 here in Australia. It literally SAVED my hair
I had the inverse effect. Olaplex 3 was a miracle for me! k18 i was like meh. Maybe if the first product that i used on my damaged hair would have been k18 probably i'd noticed the difference on my hair.
Olaplex no. 3 was never meant to be the full treatment and it is not a conditioner which means it needs to be followed with a conditioner or hair mask that is according to your hair's needs (moisture, repair etc.). Olaplex 0+1+2+3 are for bond repairing only and sometimes you can't see the results because bond repairing happens in the smallest structures of the hair at a molecular level but you can test it by measuring how much force you need until the hair breaks. Olaplex treated hair shouldn't break off as easily as non treated damaged hair. No. 3 is for maintenance after getting the salon treatment 1+2. K18 fan club has twisted the truth by doing comparisons incorrectly when they even haven't had the full Olaplex treatment. There is so much more of the active ingredient in Olaplex no. 1 which is actually the product that needs to be compared with K18. Comparing it to no. 3 is unfair.
K18 and Olaplex 3 have a place in a hair care regime since they benefit the hair in different ways. I just started using K18, so I’ll see how it goes. I also still use Olaplex.
I am k18 certified- after browsing through these comments 🙈 a couple things id like to comment on is DONT DEVIATE FROM THE INSTRUCTIONS. K18 offers many ways you can see how its applied and its SO EASY. SCIENTISTS developed this product and they give instructions for a reason. I cant stress enough if you want the product to work follow the process provided. Brush your hair before you shower Clarify Apply appropriate amount of pumps suggested for your hair amount (LESS IS MORE, more is NOT. BETTER) Comb through Wait FOUR MINUTES THEN! If you NEED to apply conditioner and rinse you can, but I encourage you to just use a detangling product if you need or leave in conditioner.
@@blacknwhitestripe nope not in this case. Because K18 works on a molecular level it takes in what it needs. If there is too much product applied it will create a build up on the hair that will make it feel sticky
@@blacknwhitestripe too much k18 can definitely make the hair feel super weird I'm speaking from experience, don't overdo it if you orderdo it clarify and stop using it for a while
I like that k18 is a one step system unlike the 7 steps of olaplex. When you take into the fact that you have pay for all those things, k18 seems cheaper. I know you don’t have to use ever single Olaplex product but to get the “most” out of it I would feel like I would have to buy all 7/8 steps to get the max result. I have only been using k18 for the past two weeks and I can feel a difference. I have like overprocessed hair with like no protein in it and that has helped make what I didn’t get cut off, back to being softer. I know it is 4-6 weeks to see results but I think that my hair was just that bad that i can already tell a difference in it. I am probably going to use this for the next 4 weeks and then switch back and forth between olaplex and this.
I've been using the Olaplex system since I stopped dying my hair, about 1.5 years. I love it! My hair was fine, low density, straight with no volume. But with Olaplex, I have less shedding, less breakage and more volume. Olaplex 0 now comes in a spray bottle!!!💖
I Olaplex at least once a week, use K18 twice a week, and rotate between Olaplex, The Kure by Amika, Redken Acidic Bonding and also the Redken Extreme Length. I am a daily washer, because I live in a hot, humid climate. I have a very oily scalp, and my hair is right at my shoulders. It’s also heavily highlighted, so it needed help when I started. I also do a Kerastase Fusio Dose every couple of weeks as well as regular protein treatments. My hair was very angry at me three weeks ago after my highlight job. It was breaking all over the place. So after I got home, I went to work. Olaplex three times a week for two weeks, K18 every day for two weeks. Two weeks after my highlights, I went back to my stylist to trim off the split ends and she was in awe and told me my hair was incredible. A note for the people who need heavy conditioning. The K18 website actually says in its FAQ section that if you have to, you can use a regular conditioner (rinse off) after the 4 minutes is up on the K18. That’s what I did.
I like K18 much more than Olaplex. The price is really high but with my fine hair I can get away with 1 pump, so it is ok. And what I really love that the routine with it is so much quicker and easier than with Olaplex.
K18 states in their blogs that after you shampoo and apply K18 to towel dried damp hair, you can always jump back into the shower to add your conditioner routine. You can do anything you normally would do once the 4 minutes is up. They just don't want the conditioner to impede the ability for the product to penetrate into the hair shaft.
I looked it up and it’s true. It specifically states on k18 website that you can get back in the shower after 4 minutes and use conditioner. They just don’t want you to use conditioner before the treatment. But they say after the four minutes you can do whatever you want.
k18 wasn't working for me until I used a high sulphate shampoo to clarify my hair before k18 application. If you're not seeing results with k18, try a clarifying shampoo next time before you use it.
I think this is the biggest issue with people having problems. They are not clarifying correctly or at all. I made sure to strip my hair down because I didn't want to waste product and it worked.
For me it transformed my hair. But there was a difference between 2 shampoos I had been alternating so I sent k18 an email and they replied saying it's best to use with a shampoo without conditioners. Kevin Murphy maxi wash, Neutrogena clarifying & Malibu C un doo goo. I went with Malibu C for my bleached, naturally curly 3c hair. And my hair looked brighter, lighter and more. I did recently use it after doing the Olaplex 3 & 8 mask (not supposed to used with conditioner) and still saw benefits but when you have the right combo of products with k18 it's that much better. And for the cost & for my hair ya I want to get all the benefits. That's the beauty of this product. Can't go wrong. If you're not using k18, you're wasting money. Seriously. The right shampoo & viola. I use styling products after applying it and they do add greatness but I don't need as much with K18 and I can even use products I was going to put in my guest room for future use by anyone. Since I am not expecting anyone anytime soon they were still in my bathroom. Glad I gave them a second chance with k18 cause I saved even more money not having to by any more product for a bit and still have lovely hair. Heidi used k18 alone and still got great results. I've already read of people using it in ways not prescribed and yet they got results. And I'm sure a handful of people will write negative feedback, some of who are intentionally trying to deceive. Nothing to lose, you can refund if in fact it doesn't work for you. You're saving money & time with k18. My friends call me the k18 rep. I just can't rave about it enough. I can't believe I almost didn't buy because the lady at the salon said it didn't work any better then the L'Oreal smart bond. Huh!?! Can't compare these two. I didn't buy it that day but the next time I went in I just went for it. And I was so upset that I almost missed this gem. Btw I am loving the Malibu C un do goo too!
@@cessiahc 100% agree!! I have no reservations now about how often I heat style my hair whatsoever. I rarely get split ends, and it's always so soft. It truly feels like I have virgin hair again.
@@iElepple I use Neutrogena anti-residue shampoo ! It’s a small bottle but you don’t need much. I shampoo with it at least twice and make sure my hair feels literally squeaky clean. I hope this helps you
I am a k18 convert. Never noted much difference with Olaplex and I have completely new hair that has improved elasticity and shine and strength. I lose way less hair in the shower. I cannot say enough great things about K18. I have very tangly long hair and I was reticent to try not conditioning however if you work it through your hair it will detangle. I will say that those first washes where you are using consecutively are tough but now that I’m using once a week i am obsessed.
It’s not really a comparison if your hair isn’t starting from the same starting point with both products. That being said, you’re hair is exactly the same as my hair! K18 didn’t work well on my hair, it left it feeling gross and dry, and didn’t stand up to humidity. Olaplex, however, leaves my hair feeling as soft as silk and I can walk through the rain and it doesn’t puff up!!!
The K 18 is the winner for me hands-down! I have reasonably thick, heavy hair, so I’m lucky enough not to have to deal with tangling unless I wear my hair naturally curly for a few days. At that point it’s verging on matting (iykyk) and, I will just put conditioner on the tangles and brush them out when they’re super saturated with conditioner in the shower. This is totally a curly girl thing, and I know some people are afraid to brush their hair when it’s wet. But if I’m planning on using the K 18, I will detangle first while wet with a high slip conditioner, and then shampoo and rinse it clean. Then my hair is basically fully detangled when I put the K 18 in. I also know that when I put the K 18 in, after the four minutes it’s totally easy to brush through, and I have plenty of slip! I’m another one who hates the Olaplex process, I just don’t have the patience, and the results didn’t come nearly as close for me. Thank you for continuing your super educational content!
Thank you for this in depth review. You’re so thorough! I go a bit rogue with these products for the same reasons you stated. I NEED to have conditioner in my fine, curly, super porous hair. K18 works really well for me and I use it after I shampoo and condition. I use Olaplex 8 and leave it on it the shower for about five minutes. If I leave it on for the 10 minutes, my hair goes pretty flat. And I really don’t like having to rinse it later. Too lazy!
I just bought k18 without knowing I couldn’t use conditioner, I’m so glad you posted this! My hair is super curly and dry. I need conditioner in my life! I’m so glad to know you used it with conditioner ❤️
I dont have damaged hair per se, but it's curly and course so I started using Olaplex shampoo and conditioner about 2 weeks ago and the #6 and #7 just once so far. LOVE the results. My hair definitely feels softer. I'm thinking of incorporating #3 in as well and maybe #0.
Two things that I didn't like about this vodeo is that No. 3 is supposed to be used with No. 0 whereas K18 is a stand alone product. I think to make an accurate comparison would be to use No. 0 and No. 3 together. Also if you used Olaplex a few times and then started to use k18 your hair is already a few steps ahead because of the use of Olaplex and vice versa. I think a better way to compare products would be to have as many friends as possible and split them into two groups. One half using Olaplex and the other half using K18 for a set amount of time and compare results that way.
I have used 0 with 3 and I get about the same results using 3 by itself. I just don’t get enough of 0 in that tiny little baby bottle to saturate all of my long hair. I only get two uses out of one bottle of no 0 so I stopped buying it…but I love no 3!!!! K18 scares me with the whole no conditioner thing.
I love Olaplex, you should really try the No 2. It’s a little stronger and comes in a larger bottle; way much more cost effective. Also the new Pro 4 in 1 mask is awesome.
@@sharroon7574 That's what I thought. You're supposed to saturate your hair with it (as you would normally do with water), THEN put in #3. You end up using 1/2 the bottle of #2 each time, which is crazy expensive 😳
Same is great stuff! And it seems the more you wash your hair after even not using it, it looks healthier and healthier for a bit. I use both together. 8 was ok a little waxy for me. I would like to try 6 and 7 combo for leave in next.
I've used both and by far Olaplex 3 is the winner for my hair. I used seven applications of K18, and Olaplex did more for me in one. Interesting how it depends on the person.
So I have extremely fine and damaged hair from bleaching and I LOVE K-18. I’ve repurchased now 3 times. It’s AMAZE BALLS. I use the Kure from Amina to wash and then follow with K-18 and my hair has never been healthier. It’s like brand new.
When I use K18 I first wet my hair in the shower, then condition. I leave that the duration of my shower and detangle/comb while in the shower. Then I shampoo with a clarifying or detox shampoo right before I get out. My hair is much softer and the process works so much better for me! You may wanna try! 🙌🏼🙌🏼
@@VisenyaAtoms you don’t need to rinse after you just wait 4 mins then I use a conditioner after for your to 20 minutes. It’s worth the buy trust me as a pro hairdresser the results are amazing
Ahhh u finally did this video! 💕💕 I'm actually on my second use of k18, can't wait to see the result after 6 uses. I can already see a little difference on second use today
Hi Abbey ❤, Hope you're keeping well and having a good weekend 😊! My hair is long and prone to tangles and if I didn't use conditioner my hair would be a disaster to use the K18! Therefore Olaplex gets my vote.
I split my hair in four section for both products. I put one pump closer to my finger tips rub together then apply to first quadrant. I still have product left to I let go of the second quadrant ( I start with the back quadrants) and use the remainder there. Then to make sure I use every last bit I slather everything together. Next I do the same for the front. So that two “pumps” for each product. I must say I also use olaplex 6 ( leave in conditioner) on my olaplex days. And although my hair is super damaged I wash twice a week and alternate between products. I also just let it air dry as opposed to styling. Results: after 2 weeks of doing this - I’ve noticed a softer texture with the olaplex. That said I also haven’t given k19 enough time to kick in. They say 4-6 washes and I’m only at two. Regardless my hair is as damaged as it could get. My plan is to go out 4 weeks or so doing this process (hopefully seeing some improvement) then continue with only one of the products for two weeks or so prob olaplex then move on to k19. I don’t know if this will be effective or not but honestly I’m so desperate to fix my overly bleached hair that I’m willing to put both at the same time if I thought it would help (not really but you guys know what I mean). Lastly I should mention my hair is by far much shorter than the OP. I’d say it’s abt a little past my shoulders.
I've found wide toothed combs to be the best to detangle my long, fine hair when wet. Once I've used that, then I go in with a comb with teeth closer together. Depending on how tangled my hair is, I might have to use a couple of combs with teeth closer together, each comb with finer teeth. I would describe it as "gradual combing"
I like k18 because I Don’t have to waste time letting it sit snd rinsing snd washing after. For me if I shampoo only , I get major knots. So The trick to Using k18 in order to avoid all of knots, is to let it sit on the hair for the 4 mins and then brush your hair. Once it has a chance to absorb, It will loosen the and moisturize the hair.
I recently bought k18 and my hairdresser told me after the first 4-6 uses to use it once a month. Which would mean (if you use 2 pumps) that it would last about 1,5-2 years which makes it way cheaper. But even id you use 3 pumps that’s about a year which is still cheaper than olaplex
I was just researching as to what product to buy and ran across your videos. I will definitely give Olaplex a try since my hair is similar to yours! Thanks for the great review!! :)
I used olaplex for years and got zero benefits. I’ve just ordered the big 150ml bottle of K18 and the 150ml spray (it’s sold here in Australia online thankfully!) and I’m looking forward to it being better!
Olaplex #3 is the take home maintenance treatment after getting the actual olaplex 1&2 treatment in the salon. If you do not have the olaplex 1&2 treatment in your hair #3 isn't doing anything. Number 3 is just a diluted version of 2 that keeps the actual treatment in your hair.
I disagree. I never go to a salon. I use only Olaplex#3 after washing my long, bleached hair and it works wonders! And I am happy with my hair! Please don't discourage people from using Olaplex#3. That's just wrong.
I have curly Afro textured hair that i heat train with keratins and hands down k18! I haven’t used conditioner in 6 months. Thanx k18 hands down worth every cent!
Oh wow no conditioner in 6 months?! I too have afro textured hair that I heat train. I'm on my 3rd K18 treatment and my hair feels amazing! I was wondering if I could just keep using this and ditch rinse out conditioner for good? How often do you wash? Do you just use K18 with no breaks?
@@cfoster6804 i like to keep things simple. Shampoo 1-3xs a week, Depends on my workout schedule, i haven’t done a break a yet. I only use 2 products in my hair. Shampoo and k18. Hair feels and looks amazing. Also haven’t trimmed in about 8 months and don’t feel the need to.
@@cfoster6804 also one of the k18 chemist on their Facebook page said in a Q&A the product can’t be overused , it’s not like antiquated protein treatments.
The same type of hair you do. And when I use K 18 I put it all over as best as I can and after the four minutes, I can get the con through very very easily. I do not need any other conditioner. It is a rich conditioner on its own. So I’m not sure why you’re having this problem.
I too, have fine, color treated hair and K-18 would have been a disaster to my hair, as you described in your video. So glad I didn’t purchase. I will stick to my Olaplex 0 and 3 that keeps my hair healthy. 😘
Ah thank you for such an informative breakdown!! I'm so torn, I use Olaplex no. 3 and have been seriously eyeing k18... my hair looks almost exactly like your "distressed" before shot for the k18 trial (except my hair just looks like that all the time lol). So the fact that it helps with that is so tempting...but my hair is also majorly snarly if I don't use conditioner! Like I get actual mats in my hair if I don't detangle, so I'm not sure if eliminating conditioner is feasible... and it's so expensive to try and potentially be disappointed. Augh. Much to think about.
I got K18 recently and ive now done the full 6 treatments (which is less than one bottle) and honestly it is WELL worth it! I can see a real difference in my hair! It went from 'gummy' and difficult to dry due to extreme bleach damage to looking and feeling normal and EVEN slightly shiny again!
You can use leave in conditioner and oil after you wait the for minutes with k18. I have dry curly hair and doing it that way made a huge difference. I use both olaplex and k18. I bought the small bottle from Sephora and did the 6 treatments in a row and have used it three times since and still have some in the bottle. A little goes a long way!
Why not use both as Olaplex is a wash off and k18 is a leave on, but I don't really know as I'm a guy so aside from hair mask and argan oil I don't too much hair treatments. Or now start with Epres then shampoo then use K18.
After I apply the k18 to my hair, it combs out no problem. I feel like it acts like a leave in conditioner. I do have below shoulder length, curly, tangle prone hair.
I've used many bottles of Olaplex no. 3 but never tried K18 before. It's quite pricy and I'm not a fan of the usage instructions in terms of not conditioning at all. I prefer to slap on Olaplex while I watch TV.
I reached out to K18 to double check rinsing out after 4 minutes was OK. I like using a hair mask because my hair is long and medium/thick and can be diffucult to comb through. They responded that is totally fine to wash out because after 4 minutes k18 has done all it is going to do. I’ve only used twice so can’t comment on long term benefits. My hair is already in great shape from Olaplex 3. I love that K18 responded so quickly but it bugs me they don’t change the directions to reflect what they told me about rinsing out the product after 4 minutes. Bottle in small, I need at least 3 pumps so $75 bottle will probably get me through 6 washes they recommend to start. At that point I can reassess if olaplex 3 or k18 is better.
To be honest if y cut your hair passing your shoulders length as your beautiful face is quite long, change your color to more warm tones, as you use more make up to compensate the wrong hair color, use a frame face lift of color and give your hair time to heal you'll way better off.
I tried mixing k18 AND Olaplex No 6 (leave in cream) with water in a spray bottle! Works really well AND can be used in between washes to perk up and protect when daily styling.
that's not how it's instructed, k18 is expensive af why waste the product if you are not maximizing the absorption? There is a reason why conditioner shouldn't be used after shampoo to avoid anything blocking the cuticle from absorbing the active ingredient. Adding Olaplex 6 is counter productive.
I'd love to try K18 but the price is just too high for something I would need to repurchase so often, plus with shipping and taxes to my country it's just not justifiable 😫
One bottle 50ml of K18 you can use from 16 to 50 washes, depending on your hair density and length. So it's from 1,50$ to 4,68$ per use. Olaplex no3 100ml is about for 6-7 washes. So it's from 4$ to 4,60$ per wash. But if you want to get better benefits you should use no.0 together, then the price rises from 8$-9,3$ per wash.
Yea olaplex 0 and 3 is really working great on my hair and it’s 56$ for both and I get about 5 treatments so $10 each. It’s more affordable if you only do it once or twice a month.
I have the same issue with K18. Looking for a GREAT leave in conditioner, as it really needs more moisture. But both work well for me in different ways. I’m using both now as an experiment until my next salon visit.
@@Aphrodite01 I totally forgot to thank you for the tip! I tried it and it may be good, but it stinks so bad I just can't handle it. Other people I know thinks it smells amazing, but I'm unfortunately gagging :(
I think a better comparison would have been with Olaplex No 8. I personally find that using both in a routine is great. Starting with Olaplex No 2 (or No 3), a really good shampoo specific for the hair condition and type, K18, and then a barrier repair emollient or oil with panthenol, ceramides, fatty acids, ect. in a formula that is right for you (whether that may be a thick cream formula or something lighter such as a spray). Also, the K18 spray formula used to be available for consumers and I personally love that one. However since the re branding from Khairpep to K18 and their rise in market, my assumption would be that consumers may be using it wrong as the pH of it is about a 7 which is enough to open the cuticle and can be more damaging if not sealed... I've been using K18 for just under 2 years now and while I do love the results, we need to understand the difference even if both are created to repair the hair and disulfide bonds, the way in which that happens cannot be achieved if your hair is beyond the point of repair. So, bottom line... a trustful routine (for hair that is not too badly damaged): 1: Olaplex (before shampooing if your hair has not got too much product build up or dry shampoo). 2: Shampoo (twice if your hair needs it, or if you need to shampoo first, then use Olaplex and shampoo again), after that you can go straight into K18 (pump onto wet hands and rub vigorously until the product appears white and fluffy), and then after those 4 minutes, use something that will maintain hydration and lock in moisture to help seal and smooth the cuticle with soothing ingredients.
Just reading through this response and i hope you don't mind me contacting you but you seem to know what you are talking about haha and I just wondered if there was a barrier repair cream/spray that you would recommend that contains the panthenol, fatty acids, ceramides etc that you mentioned? Thanks so much!
@@natasha24xox No worries! I guess being a beauty advisor, esthetician, and now, apprentice hairdresser, has its benefits 😂 I would have a look at Oribe Supershine (contains panthenol, amino acids, fatty acids, ect), Kerastase Resistance Extentioniste Serum (ceramides and amino acids), and I do believe Shu Uemura have one but for some reason I cannot find it. ***Don’t feel like you have to read below, it’s just me ranting and explaining about hair lmao*** To find more products that contain these type of ingredients, it is more ‘luxury’ brands, and there is a food reason why… companies such as Estée Lauder, Loreal and some privately owned brands not only have the finances, but they also have the resources to these manufacturers, laboratories and the professionals behind them to create such things, therefore are able to create FDA-approved sunscreens in a snap, engineer the science, and patent the technology, even if these companies don’t have the nicest intentions, morals or backstories. I could recommend many different products… and while they all claim to do absolutely everything, I think that what’s more challenging is knowing what your specific hair needs and how different people go about it. For example, if you have a pipe leakage and you don’t really know what’s going on but you just want it to stop… you could mask it with a whole heap of duct tape and super glue, try replace and buy all the things for it yourself, or call a plumber… the list goes on. Barrier creams are more so about certain nutritional value and keeping moisture from escaping than anything else. If you look at the 2:4:2 ratio of the skin and migration of keratinocytes, the hair can actually benefit from this too as the sebum travels up from the hair shaft, it naturally moisturises the cuticle which is why our hair gets so oily (not always a bad thing). So when replacing that moisture, using those things like ceramides, cholesterol and fatty acids, it will realistically work better than on just plain glycerin, dimethicone and shea butter alone as they don’t have the same molecular structure, like fitting a triangle shaped object into a circle shape hole.
@@Brandonbrianjackson Thank you so much Brandon for such a detailed response! I have used olaplex for a while and thinking of trying k18 as my hair is really damaged. But I have also been looking for a serum/cream/oil to put in my hair after washing as it is also so so dry and I just want to make it really healthy again so will definitely look into the ones you mentioned!
@@natasha24xox if you want something that is comparable to k18 but focuses on both repair and moisture retention, Olaplex’s 4 in 1 and No 8 seem to have a great understanding as it has a really nice well rounded formula that deliver the best of both worlds (in my opinion). It may contain less amino acids, however, that doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s any less effective, in fact if you look at the ingredients, you get a lot more in terms of ingredients and also the amount of product per millilitre too. If you think about how k18 works, it relies on just the molecular biochemical amino acid peptide to do everything as amino acids are known to be very multifaceted and in this case do everything from repair, style and condition, but I believe what they are missing are some really well researched and highly efficient ingredients that have been known to work well. Again, Olaplex’s 4 in 1 and No 8 is very similar but just with less amino acids, and more of those barrier function ingredients such as those oils: Avocado, Meadowfoam, Rice Bran, Hemp Seed, Rose Hip, Jojoba, and Safflower; soothing/moisturising barrier supportive ingredients such as: Sodium PCA, Ceramide AP, Ceramide NP, Panthenol, Squalane, and Tocopherol; hydrating water-loving humectants such as: Glycerin and Sodium Hyaluronate; versatile multifaceted amino acids: Glycine, Arginine, Alanine, Serine, Valine, Isoleucine, Proline, Threonine, Histidine, Phenylalanine, Aspartic Acid, Pyroglutamic Acid (PCA); and Olaplex’s patented ingredient: Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate. I suggest you have a look! 🙂
I think a clarifying shampoo would be great for you! I could go in to a little bit of detail as to why if you wanted me too. Not all clarifying shampoos are made the same though, some are high pH which is not always a bad thing, but the whole idea would be remove buildup for a clean slate as the hair can get aggressively resistant when there’s too much buildup from environmental damage. Think of the humidity you were mentioning… there are so many ways we can get air such as air conditioners, heaters, hot and cold weather, steamers, gyms, even lack of air. All these things can cause the hair to do many things especially if these types of situations of environment are changing rapidly during the day, and because hair doesn’t hold onto water, when dry after a humid environment, I can imagine that the hair would carry a lot of pollutants after a while, ect. It’s not necessarily too much to worry about when it comes to this and I’m only assuming from how you described your lifestyle so I hope that helps. Say you use a clarifying shampoo, then k18 and wait 4 minutes, apply something like the Olaplex N°8 straight on top and then rise, something like Oribe Supershine would be amazing. If if your hair needs something with more moisture, I would consider trying out something like Oribe’s Curl Gelée. Let me know what you think!
Your hair is so beautiful! 🥰🥰🥰 Very informative video, thank you! 💖💖💖 My hair is super damaged, even thou I have haircut regularly and get cellophane treatment in salon every 8 weeks. I use Olaplex #3, #4, #6 and #7. I use overnight mask and argan oil, and different leave in conditioners from Living Proof and Kerastase. But my hair still doesn’t look good, just feels soft. I ordered K18, I hope it will help! 😁❤️
Abbey!!! You just continue to get more gorgeous!! I'm telling you, the newer color has been such a game changer to your color(skin tone etc) love love love 💕
I think as long as you use a conditioner without silicones in it, maybe using the K18 afterwards would be fine. The K18 website said the primary reason they suggest not using a conditioner is because many of them contain silicones and that would prevent the product from being absorbed properly.
@@cfoster6804 Yeah absolutely, it’s always a good idea to use as directed initially, but since she already has the product and finds that it doesn’t work with her needs, using a silicone free conditioner seems like a good way to trouble shoot.
Try conditioning and detangling your hair BEFORE you shampoo and subsequently use the k18. I have fine, curly hair so I know the struggle and thats what I tend to with olaplex because they want it applied to clean, dry hair. For curly hair, that’s virtually impossible for me.
I'm so annoyed by all these comments written by people who haven't used Olaplex correctly or who are doing unfair comparisons. Olaplex no. 3 was never meant to be the full treatment. No. 3 is for maintenance after getting the salon treatment 1+2. K18 fan club has twisted the truth by doing comparisons incorrectly when many of them haven't even had the full Olaplex treatment. There is so much more of the active ingredient in Olaplex no. 1 than in the no 3. No. 1 is actually the product that needs to be compared with K18. Comparing it to no. 3 is unfair. Also it is not a proper comparison to use K18 on Olaplex treated hair because the result is due to the combined effect of the two products. After K18 made its debut, so many influencers who previously praised Olaplex to heavens, started to talk crap about Olaplex and spread misinformation about it. So sad how this social media influencing & marketing works.
Ok but everyone can't get to a salon to get 1 and 2. So if you have to rely on salon treatments for no. 3 to work well then K18 wins again. Only thing that sucks about K18 is it needs the drying alcohol to deliver the active ingredient.
@@cfoster6804 Alcohol, that is ethanol in this case, is not necessarily drying when it is mixed with other ingredients. I use few skin & hair care products with ethanol and have never had any drying problems. My cactus hydrating spray has ethanol in it and yet it is still very hydrating. When it comes to chemistry the effect of one molecule can be drastically changed when other molecules are present. Olaplex no. 1 & 2 can be bought by a non-professinal from some shops and the trial size kit with 3 bottles (1, 2 & 3 each 100 ml) is also available. When reading unbiased reviews from other websites, the winner isn't as clear as the influencers claim to be. Also influencers are paid high amounts of money to make reviews that prefer the payer's products and this is not just about beauty products but also other products and services like VPN, headphones etc. But I would probably take the money too if it was a matter of luxurious life and poverty or average income. That's why I never trust influencer reviews. Maintenance products are required to keep the results good and the treatments need to be redone every now and then. Nothing is permanent.
I have used both products. Olaplex for months and K18 for about the last three months. BTW they say the K18 1.7 oz bottle has 50 pumps in the little bottle. Really? I prefer the K18 as I saw better results and ease of use. As a plus it is supposedly suppose to permanently change the hair strand versus Olaplex that washes out after many washes. I am blessed to have no tangles in my hair. I purchased the K18- 5 oz bottle for $89 on Etsy. What a deal! I verified that the product batch number was legitimate from K18. I will continue to use Olaplex shampoo and conditioner. I will also use no. 3 when I use the no. 8 moisture mask which I love. I rotate no. 6 hair smoother in my live in conditioners but even with my very thick hair can only use a pea size as my hair will get greasy if I use more. Instead of Olaplex oil my personal preference for hair oil is Kerastase hands down to a ton of other oils I have tried.
Abbey stop reading my mind. I have literally looking to find a dupe to Olaplex 3 for a while now. Not for price though for the fragrance. If you (or anyone whose tried both) read this can you let me know if K18 is stronger or weaker in the fragrance department than Olaplex; both from the bottle and after Olaplex is rinsed or K18 is left on the hair. Olaplex doesn't kill me with the fragrance all of the time but it's almost winter in Alaska and my migraines have already started to ramp up. I don't need a leave in that is super fragrant to make it worse. For example the Brigeo Don't despair, repair lines fragrance is absolutely way too strong for me and I had to actually shampoo (I 99% only co-wash) my hair multiple times to get them out. Olaplex fragrance is mostly just annoying / mildly irritating on migraine free days. I would love to see a video on the best fragrance free products for damaged hair. I know it would be one heck of a challenge.
Love your videos, I have both also and honestly love them both differently! They are both great products and benefit my long damaged hair enough that I believe I need both.
I TOTALLY AGREE that K18 needs to make the spray available for at home use!! I currently use both. I have the same issue as you - fine thick hair. Very susceptible to EXTREME tangles due to bleaching and because my hair fine. Love your videos girl! You ROCK! Hopefully k18 will take notice of the spray being more functional for most of us with longer thicker hair. Also I find I have to use more k18 when my hair has only been shampooed as well. Is it ok to use more when your hair is so tangled? Because 4 pumps in long fine thick hair is just not enough I feel like. Any thoughts?
I have the Olaplex N 3 and for a long time I didnt really get how to incorporate it into my hair routine even with the directions it was just odd. So since there I started using it in the shower and let it sit for a few minutes then apply the shampoo and condition that Olaplex has and it works wonders for my fine hair
I'm just wondering maybe we can use olaplex before shampooing and then k18 after shampooing 🤔🤔🤔 maybe the results will be even better 🙌🏻 what do you think?
Have your hairdresser do a stand alone treatment with #1 and #2. Personally, I don’t care for Olaplex to be incorporated into the color, but done as a stand alone treatment after it is dyed. I have every possible issue going on with my hair now and it is depressing. I keep chopping it and it isn’t getting better. So I am thinking about getting both and switching between them…and throwing in L’Oréal detox once a week. Lol Have you tried the detox system yet?
For me k18 is way better however I still use my olaplex too. I figure bouncing between the 2 certainly can't make my hair any worse 😆 Fr getting good results. When my stylist comments on it, saying whatever you've been doing to ur hair keep it up! I know I'm doing good.
I’ve been a hairdresser 33 years, and I just found your channel. I’m absolutely obsessed! Please keep the technical videos coming, I am living for them, LOL. I am a bit of a chemistry gig as well. I am quite impressed with your knowledge and presentation on products. Keep up the great work! #teamolaplex
I also can use K 18 because of my intense hair tangles. I have found a way to hack Ola Plex three. On top of using it as a mask however many times a week I also actually use it as a leave in product even though the company doesn’t recommend it as such. It works very effectively for frizz control I highly recommend everyone try this! I live in Florida where the humidity is high and I find this product works wonderfully as a mask and leave in !!
I have done that too in the past with excellent results. Then I stopped when I read that they don’t recommend it. However, it was amazing for wave definition in rainy London without so much frizz. May go back to it now that you mentioned it. 😊 Thanks ☺️
My hair after a shampoo also gets very tangled so putting the k18 was a hassle at first...however, I got a wet brush off amazon (the one that has a hook at the end for in shower brushing) and let me tell you....it detangled my hair so easily and so smoothly! It made putting the k18 on towel dried hair so much easier! And then I used the brush to comb the product throughout my hair...waited the 4 minutes, and I swear- my hair has never felt soooooo soft!!!!!!! I love k18! Honestly after trying both k18 and olaplex I have to say k18 is the winner! It works better for heat damaged hair while olaplex I think works for more chemically damaged hair (ex: bleach)
Ok maybe that's why I didn't have the best results with Olaplex but I am with K18...I only have heat damage. I have no chemical services done to my hair.
I absolutely loved K18 first 4 consecutive washes. But on my 5th and 6th wash I felt my hair was very dry and lifeless, difficult to comb through. Don’t know what’s wrong. Anyone experienced the same?
Probably protein overload. Once your hair has enough protein you don’t want to add anymore protein or it will make your hair feel very damaged from my expert and readings online
My hairdresser that uses k18 said that it has to be blow dried in once applied. Which is the main thing that deterred me from the product. Is this true?
So I just tan out of K18 ot only lasted me 1 month. I do have long hair I needed between 16-18 pumps the first time I used it. The more I used it the less pump I needed when I ran out I needed like 10 pumps. I would say it's pricey and it's very inconvenient that you cannot but the 5oz bottle unless you are a professional. Thanks for this video I'm going to try olapex 3 😁
Big update on K18 use!! ruclips.net/video/WxpXPGsdWwA/видео.html
K18 ALL THE WAY!!!!
I’ve used both. Bought the entire Olaplex system. Used it for the last 2yrs. Very time consuming but happy with end result.
Started using K18 a week ago and I’m a complete convert. Time saving and money saving + end result is beyond anything I could have hoped for. K18 forever!!! 💗💗💗
Being able to leave K18 in is a winner for me. Call me lazy, I hate having to wait and rinse stuff off.
Me too! Leaving in is just another perk
Yes absolutely agree
Totally! Haha 😂 I’m now a convert to K-18. 👍
Yes, me too.
Yeah, having to wet my hair before I shower seems like a an insurmountable task and I never end up using my oleplex.
Hair stylist here! I watched your K18 review and I’d like to give a helpful tip with application. :)
I noticed you applied the cream to all of your hair while it was down and you mentioned that it was hard because your hair was so tangly. What would really help with this step is to detangle your hair first starting at the ends and working your way up, either with a Wet brush, or a wide tooth comb; after you have detangled your hair, apply K18 in “sections,” clipping up the rest of the hair so it is out of the way, and then comb the product through for even distribution on each section. It will be difficult for all of your hair to get full saturation if you don’t do it this way only because your hair is so long and thick.
Hope this was helpful.
I know I’m late so you might not even see this. Lol!
Trying to detangle hair with no conditioner and no product = shredding the hair 😣
@@tarafotty3149
It may be hard, but, its especially hard when you aren’t working in sections. If you were to use this product- Dampen the hair first, then use a wet brush in sections starting on the ends and working your way up. It makes using these K18 products easier. 👍
It takes patience, though, so this product is not for everyone to take home.
Thank you so much for this advice there is not much product with it being under 2 oz and I definitely want to do it the right way. Am so excited to try this product. I can't wait to see which one I like best do you have an opinion?
Exactly!
I second this. That's what I do with olapex no 3 and curlsmith bond rehab salve👍🏻. I use like half the amount of product I would normally use on tangled hair. And I have thick curly hair so it is hard to detangle but as long as you are gentle and start at the ends I don't see a problem in doing it that way. Plus it's worth it when you are saving product=saving money, especially ones that cost $$ 💰💸
Sweet Abbey, the quality of your information is just top notch! Everywhere in the world (and especially your country), we need more data, facts, truth, rational analysis, science, and reality. It keeps us, the ones we love, and the future happier and safer ... and that includes hair! Bless your heart, and thank you! You're a lovely young woman.
Thank you so much for this kind comment 😊
So... I have olaplex 2 and K18. I thought I’d try a double punch approach. I have fine hair that’s down to my waist and live in London, where the water is so hard it challenges you to a fight every time you turn on the tap (despite having a shower filter). I used Bumble and Bumble’s weekend shampoo and then applied olaplex 2. Left it on for ten mins and then washed it out with Fanola shampoo, skipping conditioner. I applied the K18 to towel dried hair, left it for the 4 mins and then used my usual spray detangler/heat protectant (living proof) and blow dried my hair. My hair felt amazingly healthy and swishy but it made it so soft that my hair would not hold a curl (a problem I don’t usually have). So, yes, the double attack mode definitely works but be prepared for your hair to be too soft to hold a curl.
I do exactly the same on my long fine colour treated hair. Olaplex 2, wash then K18. This double hit approach works wonders for me. So glad I’ve come across someone else who does the sam 😊
Wowww that sounds amazing! Also the hard water trying to fight 😂😂😂
Wow! Thank you for sharing that. Is #2 salon use only?
@@cessiahc yes, but you can buy the #3 for home use ( #2 is for back bar salon use, #3, we sell you💕)
So glad you shared that bc I have 3c hair that was a 2&3a after bleaching (while using Olaplex) but I didn't mind that because I've had this hair forever. Keke. But once I started using k18 I have a full head of curls. This did not happen with Olaplex. And I just bleached my roots and my curls were back after I washed on the 2nd day. But before that I did use the Bumble invisible oil pre poo. mask overnight. Then shampooed and them k18. Voila hair like it wasn't bleached. So I may consider keeping Olaplex on hand to loosen my curls! Thank you! Brilliant.
K18 for me hands down! I have completely abandoned my Olaplex products.😄 My hair feels completely transformed with K18. Also, I have 2 small children so I can't be doing my hair all day. K18 makes it so I still get to pamper my hair without all of the time and shower hopping involved. Better results with less time and effort? Yes, please!
I have used olaplex for years! I have very dry damaged hair from bleaching. However I have to say K18 “IS” the clear winner for me. It has absolutely improved my hair out of sight. It has enabled me to grow my hair and it looks sooo healthy.
The other benefit of K18 IMO is that you don’t have to leave in a mask that is required to be rinsed out like the olaplex no. 3. I love the convenience of simply stepping out of the shower, applying the K18 leave in product (which in my experience is very conditioning) style my hair and go. No sitting around waiting in my dressing gown or needing to be rinsed out the next day depending on how long you prefer to leave the No.3 in for. If you can afford K18 I would definitely recommend.
I still love to use the olaplex oil before heat styling though!
how often do you use the k18?
Yes sweet sweet Abbey. Well done as always. I've used Olaplex for close to 3 years & k18 for 3 months. My bit on price> Olaplex $40CA + a good mask. $40+$40. And, K18 $89 & done. I have coily, bleached blonde hair (from darkest brown). To solve the the tangle prob. Simply smooth on hair. By the time I spread each of the four sections I divide my hair into. (Not easy because hair is completely knotted since no conditioner was used) more over I use a clarifying shampoo with NO conditioning agents as per k18 recommendation (I emailed them). I would say about 30secs to a minute after spreading/smoothing it on the hair, it is untangled and I can run my fingers through no problem. Then I wait the 4 minutes to apply other styling products. With Olaplex I have to use very specific products to achieve a good hair day. With K18 I can use products I bought but didn't quite work as desired in the past including with Olaplex. With Olaplex i dont actually see results but after having stopped a few times to see if I really needed it, it definitely keeps the hair strong. With K18 I see results. Strong, light, soft, shiny, voluminous and frizz free for at least the 2/3 days after washing. I don't really go more days then that without washing. The first 2 months I used k18, six consecutive washes and then alternated with Olaplex. All was good. I had just stocked on Olaplex a week before purchasing k18 so I decided I would alternate with k18 until I finished my stock of Olaplex. But I couldn't believe the results I was getting from just k18. That I decided not to use Olaplex and see the difference. With K18 my hair keeps looking better & better. My curls are just a good as my hair in my twenties. But I'm bleached blonde now. Aaand, I have also lost a lot of hair in the past 7 years since my mom passed away. But hair looks fuller, light & shiny. I also have few tangles & I don't brush (curly) but I can put my fingers through my hair on dry hair. I did this because I was applying the Bumble &bumble invisible oil pre poo after I recently got my roots done (bleached). This mask pre poo is fabulous. But it just seems like everything works better with k18. I had bought a few styling products in the past that I didn't love as mentioned earlier. They were ok but that's it so I would only use them on my second no wash hair. Now Im using these 4 unloved products on my wash day just to use them up. The takeaway? If you can't afford the time, energy or money to buy styling products, with K18 don't worry about it. For reference I do only use salon products. I'm not sure about drugstore... But I do hear that these days they are much better than 15 + years ago. Finally (sorry so long). Price is about the same. For now I will not be buying Olaplex. I will use it again when I run out of k18... I have Olaplex 3, 6, 7, 8. All great products. But for me 3& 7, 8 are excellent But Just doesn't compare to k18. Even after this last bleach, there was a huge difference between using Olaplex before during and after bleaching and just using k18 after bleaching. Hair is Curly and smoother, shinier and voluminous. Price is almost the same but results don't compare. As for use, k18 takes a little time to get used to because you don't condition. But I prefer that to leaving on Olaplex for 1 hour.
Which clarifying shampoo with no conditioning agents are you using? I might give k18 another try. I saw no big difference on my damaged, bleached curls with k18 as i saw from the very first use of olaplex 3, was insane the result i had. Maybe because with k18 i was not using the right shampoo and because now my hair is way more healthy and strong, i stopped doing any chemical process on it for almost a year, just like 3-4 silk presses.
Hey I have coily hair too and I loooove K18! Thankfully I only invested in a few Olaplex products before switching over to K18. I have no desire to go back to Olaplex. My results with K18 are DRAMATIC! This doesn't even feel or look like my hair. It's so smooth, shiney, bouncy, and holds moisture longer. I straighten my natural hair every single week and instead of it looking more and more damaged like it usually does it's doing the opposite and looking better and better. I'm only on my 3rd use too. I cannot wait to see how my hair will look and feel after the 6th use.
@@SakuraBlossoms44 Joico has a good clarifying/chelating shampoo in the Kpak line. I can only find it on Amazon though. It straps all the gunk away but doesn't leave the hair feeling like a brillo pad. That's what I used the first time I used K18 and I got great results. Olaplex was pretty good for me but K18 is even better.
@@cfoster6804 Thanks for the reply. "Brillo pad" i totally get it OMG hahaahaha! I asked the k18 team on instagram about using l'oreal metal detox shampoo which i just bought and they told me is really good. I aim to grow back my curls long and healthy but do a silk press once a month. No more bleach or ammonia color for me.
@@SakuraBlossoms44 k18 recommended Kevin Murphy maxi wash, Neutrogena clarifying & Malibu C goo in doo. I chose Malibu C for my hair. Gentle. Depending on where you live k18 recommends products that are sold in my area, Canada, BC
I'm using olapex 8 as a leave-in after normal shampoo and conditioner and that works well for softness and detangling. I know that's not the recommendation, but it works for my fine, tangly, dry, wavy hair. The recommended way doesn't work as well.
Interesting, I’m going to try that!
I agree. I thought it was only me. The recommended way doesn't really work for me. But when i use it as leave in in my curly hair, it conditions my hair. But you have to apply a tiny bit.
I have virgin fine hair and use K18 occasionally to retain the structure of my hair follicles intact and healthy. No split ends whatsoever on my past shoulder length hair and gives natural shine. It's expensive but worth it for me. Olaplex is good but just washes out each time. K18 permanently repairs so it's a winner for me.
Olaplex washes out? What do you mean by that
I’d definitely be interested in trying K18 but that price point is way out of range!! Loving your comparison of the two though. I really like using Olaplex #3, I probably go through a bottle of Olaplex #3 a month cause I have such long hair! Xx
I use 4 pumps for shoulder blade length curly hair. I believe the bottle has 50 pumps?
I have used both and I only need to use about 1/3 of the amount of K18hair that I do of Olaplex! Something to consider if you are looking at price. Also after the initial few uses you only use K18hair every 4 washes or so…when I was only using Olaplex I felt like I needed to use it every time since I only wash once a week. I do like them both but now I only use Olaplex every 4 washes too, so overall I think I am saving money and have better hair.
I hated K18Hair it was so matted and dry from it
They do sell samples for $12 and free shipping.
@@brandonschalitz7948 Wow. I can't imagine this stuff doing that to anybody's hair.
Unfortunately, Olaplex 3 didn't work for me. I used up an entire bottle and saw no improvement in my hair. That's okay though, I don't expect it to work for everyone. I decided to try K18 and I noticed significant results after the FIRST use. From then on, it just continued to get better and better. I'm so glad I decided to give it a chance even though it's $92 here in Australia. It literally SAVED my hair
I had the inverse effect. Olaplex 3 was a miracle for me! k18 i was like meh. Maybe if the first product that i used on my damaged hair would have been k18 probably i'd noticed the difference on my hair.
I had the same experience. I didn't get good results from Olaplex but I got even better results from K18. I didn't know that was possible.
I'm just commencing K18, I did like Olaplex but a bit fidley to use. I'm happy with it so far, two applications
Olaplex no. 3 was never meant to be the full treatment and it is not a conditioner which means it needs to be followed with a conditioner or hair mask that is according to your hair's needs (moisture, repair etc.). Olaplex 0+1+2+3 are for bond repairing only and sometimes you can't see the results because bond repairing happens in the smallest structures of the hair at a molecular level but you can test it by measuring how much force you need until the hair breaks. Olaplex treated hair shouldn't break off as easily as non treated damaged hair. No. 3 is for maintenance after getting the salon treatment 1+2. K18 fan club has twisted the truth by doing comparisons incorrectly when they even haven't had the full Olaplex treatment. There is so much more of the active ingredient in Olaplex no. 1 which is actually the product that needs to be compared with K18. Comparing it to no. 3 is unfair.
K18 and Olaplex 3 have a place in a hair care regime since they benefit the hair in different ways. I just started using K18, so I’ll see how it goes. I also still use Olaplex.
do u use olaplex #3?
I am k18 certified-
after browsing through these comments 🙈 a couple things id like to comment on is DONT DEVIATE FROM THE INSTRUCTIONS.
K18 offers many ways you can see how its applied and its SO EASY.
SCIENTISTS developed this product and they give instructions for a reason. I cant stress enough if you want the product to work follow the process provided.
Brush your hair before you shower
Clarify
Apply appropriate amount of pumps suggested for your hair amount
(LESS IS MORE, more is NOT. BETTER)
Comb through
Wait FOUR MINUTES
THEN! If you NEED to apply conditioner and rinse you can, but I encourage you to just use a detangling product if you need or leave in conditioner.
Wouldn’t it be best to use more product to ensure that all your hair gets covered? I don’t see the harm in using a lot, other than wasting product
@@blacknwhitestripe nope not in this case. Because K18 works on a molecular level it takes in what it needs. If there is too much product applied it will create a build up on the hair that will make it feel sticky
@@blacknwhitestripe also if your combing it through as instructed, it will definitely be distributed as needed!
@@blacknwhitestripe too much k18 can definitely make the hair feel super weird I'm speaking from experience, don't overdo it if you orderdo it clarify and stop using it for a while
I like that k18 is a one step system unlike the 7 steps of olaplex. When you take into the fact that you have pay for all those things, k18 seems cheaper. I know you don’t have to use ever single Olaplex product but to get the “most” out of it I would feel like I would have to buy all 7/8 steps to get the max result. I have only been using k18 for the past two weeks and I can feel a difference. I have like overprocessed hair with like no protein in it and that has helped make what I didn’t get cut off, back to being softer. I know it is 4-6 weeks to see results but I think that my hair was just that bad that i can already tell a difference in it. I am probably going to use this for the next 4 weeks and then switch back and forth between olaplex and this.
how often do you use the k18?
Update?
yes, but really to get max results you just need 0 and 3. and the price of that per ounce compared to K18 is a RIDICULOUS amount cheaper.
I've been using the Olaplex system since I stopped dying my hair, about 1.5 years. I love it! My hair was fine, low density, straight with no volume. But with Olaplex, I have less shedding, less breakage and more volume.
Olaplex 0 now comes in a spray bottle!!!💖
As someone with coily type 4 hair the use of no conditioner sounds like a nightmare!
Exactly why I haven’t bought it yet lol!!!!
Yup 🥲
Yeah I tried it but it was a disaster my hair was so dry !!
I Olaplex at least once a week, use K18 twice a week, and rotate between Olaplex, The Kure by Amika, Redken Acidic Bonding and also the Redken Extreme Length. I am a daily washer, because I live in a hot, humid climate. I have a very oily scalp, and my hair is right at my shoulders. It’s also heavily highlighted, so it needed help when I started. I also do a Kerastase Fusio Dose every couple of weeks as well as regular protein treatments. My hair was very angry at me three weeks ago after my highlight job. It was breaking all over the place. So after I got home, I went to work. Olaplex three times a week for two weeks, K18 every day for two weeks. Two weeks after my highlights, I went back to my stylist to trim off the split ends and she was in awe and told me my hair was incredible.
A note for the people who need heavy conditioning. The K18 website actually says in its FAQ section that if you have to, you can use a regular conditioner (rinse off) after the 4 minutes is up on the K18. That’s what I did.
I like K18 much more than Olaplex. The price is really high but with my fine hair I can get away with 1 pump, so it is ok. And what I really love that the routine with it is so much quicker and easier than with Olaplex.
Yes I love K18 better. So much quicker and easier and better resultas for me and my fine damages dry hair!
I have the same hair structure, pls what are the main points that you've noticed using K18?
K18 states in their blogs that after you shampoo and apply K18 to towel dried damp hair, you can always jump back into the shower to add your conditioner routine. You can do anything you normally would do once the 4 minutes is up. They just don't want the conditioner to impede the ability for the product to penetrate into the hair shaft.
That's important and good to know! Thank you!!
@@joannmclean6406nooooooo. Its for the leave in conditioners. It specifically says not to rinse out.
I looked it up and it’s true. It specifically states on k18 website that you can get back in the shower after 4 minutes and use conditioner. They just don’t want you to use conditioner before the treatment. But they say after the four minutes you can do whatever you want.
k18 wasn't working for me until I used a high sulphate shampoo to clarify my hair before k18 application. If you're not seeing results with k18, try a clarifying shampoo next time before you use it.
I think this is the biggest issue with people having problems. They are not clarifying correctly or at all. I made sure to strip my hair down because I didn't want to waste product and it worked.
For me it transformed my hair. But there was a difference between 2 shampoos I had been alternating so I sent k18 an email and they replied saying it's best to use with a shampoo without conditioners. Kevin Murphy maxi wash, Neutrogena clarifying & Malibu C un doo goo. I went with Malibu C for my bleached, naturally curly 3c hair. And my hair looked brighter, lighter and more. I did recently use it after doing the Olaplex 3 & 8 mask (not supposed to used with conditioner) and still saw benefits but when you have the right combo of products with k18 it's that much better. And for the cost & for my hair ya I want to get all the benefits. That's the beauty of this product. Can't go wrong. If you're not using k18, you're wasting money. Seriously. The right shampoo & viola. I use styling products after applying it and they do add greatness but I don't need as much with K18 and I can even use products I was going to put in my guest room for future use by anyone. Since I am not expecting anyone anytime soon they were still in my bathroom. Glad I gave them a second chance with k18 cause I saved even more money not having to by any more product for a bit and still have lovely hair. Heidi used k18 alone and still got great results. I've already read of people using it in ways not prescribed and yet they got results. And I'm sure a handful of people will write negative feedback, some of who are intentionally trying to deceive. Nothing to lose, you can refund if in fact it doesn't work for you. You're saving money & time with k18. My friends call me the k18 rep. I just can't rave about it enough. I can't believe I almost didn't buy because the lady at the salon said it didn't work any better then the L'Oreal smart bond. Huh!?! Can't compare these two. I didn't buy it that day but the next time I went in I just went for it. And I was so upset that I almost missed this gem. Btw I am loving the Malibu C un do goo too!
@@cessiahc 100% agree!! I have no reservations now about how often I heat style my hair whatsoever. I rarely get split ends, and it's always so soft. It truly feels like I have virgin hair again.
What shampoo would you recommend?
@@iElepple I use Neutrogena anti-residue shampoo ! It’s a small bottle but you don’t need much. I shampoo with it at least twice and make sure my hair feels literally squeaky clean. I hope this helps you
I am a k18 convert. Never noted much difference with Olaplex and I have completely new hair that has improved elasticity and shine and strength. I lose way less hair in the shower. I cannot say enough great things about K18. I have very tangly long hair and I was reticent to try not conditioning however if you work it through your hair it will detangle. I will say that those first washes where you are using consecutively are tough but now that I’m using once a week i am obsessed.
It’s not really a comparison if your hair isn’t starting from the same starting point with both products. That being said, you’re hair is exactly the same as my hair! K18 didn’t work well on my hair, it left it feeling gross and dry, and didn’t stand up to humidity. Olaplex, however, leaves my hair feeling as soft as silk and I can walk through the rain and it doesn’t puff up!!!
which #olaplex please ?
The K 18 is the winner for me hands-down! I have reasonably thick, heavy hair, so I’m lucky enough not to have to deal with tangling unless I wear my hair naturally curly for a few days. At that point it’s verging on matting (iykyk) and, I will just put conditioner on the tangles and brush them out when they’re super saturated with conditioner in the shower. This is totally a curly girl thing, and I know some people are afraid to brush their hair when it’s wet. But if I’m planning on using the K 18, I will detangle first while wet with a high slip conditioner, and then shampoo and rinse it clean. Then my hair is basically fully detangled when I put the K 18 in. I also know that when I put the K 18 in, after the four minutes it’s totally easy to brush through, and I have plenty of slip! I’m another one who hates the Olaplex process, I just don’t have the patience, and the results didn’t come nearly as close for me. Thank you for continuing your super educational content!
I just used for the 1st time so idk yet but it made my hands CRAZY soft where I rubbed them together to emulsify it
Thank you for this in depth review. You’re so thorough!
I go a bit rogue with these products for the same reasons you stated. I NEED to have conditioner in my fine, curly, super porous hair. K18 works really well for me and I use it after I shampoo and condition. I use Olaplex 8 and leave it on it the shower for about five minutes. If I leave it on for the 10 minutes, my hair goes pretty flat. And I really don’t like having to rinse it later. Too lazy!
I just bought k18 without knowing I couldn’t use conditioner, I’m so glad you posted this! My hair is super curly and dry. I need conditioner in my life! I’m so glad to know you used it with conditioner ❤️
I dont have damaged hair per se, but it's curly and course so I started using Olaplex shampoo and conditioner about 2 weeks ago and the #6 and #7 just once so far. LOVE the results. My hair definitely feels softer. I'm thinking of incorporating #3 in as well and maybe #0.
Two things that I didn't like about this vodeo is that No. 3 is supposed to be used with No. 0 whereas K18 is a stand alone product. I think to make an accurate comparison would be to use No. 0 and No. 3 together. Also if you used Olaplex a few times and then started to use k18 your hair is already a few steps ahead because of the use of Olaplex and vice versa. I think a better way to compare products would be to have as many friends as possible and split them into two groups. One half using Olaplex and the other half using K18 for a set amount of time and compare results that way.
I have used 0 with 3 and I get about the same results using 3 by itself. I just don’t get enough of 0 in that tiny little baby bottle to saturate all of my long hair. I only get two uses out of one bottle of no 0 so I stopped buying it…but I love no 3!!!! K18 scares me with the whole no conditioner thing.
3 is stand-alone you don’t need 0.
I love Olaplex, you should really try the No 2. It’s a little stronger and comes in a larger bottle; way much more cost effective. Also the new Pro 4 in 1 mask is awesome.
I thpught the number 2 was used to prep for no 3?
@@sharroon7574 That's what I thought. You're supposed to saturate your hair with it (as you would normally do with water), THEN put in #3. You end up using 1/2 the bottle of #2 each time, which is crazy expensive 😳
1 and 2 are for salons only, how do you get it
Thanks for this info Abbey! I just started using Olaplex 3 with 0, I’ve used it about 3x now, really really love the results!
Same is great stuff! And it seems the more you wash your hair after even not using it, it looks healthier and healthier for a bit. I use both together. 8 was ok a little waxy for me. I would like to try 6 and 7 combo for leave in next.
I've used both and by far Olaplex 3 is the winner for my hair. I used seven applications of K18, and Olaplex did more for me in one. Interesting how it depends on the person.
So I have extremely fine and damaged hair from bleaching and I LOVE K-18. I’ve repurchased now 3 times. It’s AMAZE BALLS. I use the Kure from Amina to wash and then follow with K-18 and my hair has never been healthier. It’s like brand new.
Thank you for sharing! Kure?
Amika Kure shampoo is sold at sephora and some salons
Did you get a K-18 Treatment in a Salon first? Or did you just start using it at home?
@@speedofskaja using the mask at home!
@@cessiahc It’s a bonding shampoo sold at Sephora and on Amika’s website ☺️
When I use K18 I first wet my hair in the shower, then condition. I leave that the duration of my shower and detangle/comb while in the shower. Then I shampoo with a clarifying or detox shampoo right before I get out. My hair is much softer and the process works so much better for me! You may wanna try! 🙌🏼🙌🏼
You wash your hair after the mask?
Well that's a waste of $70+ lol you wash out a majority of the benefits..
@@VisenyaAtoms nope! You shampoo FIRST then apply nice you’re out and towel dried.
@@VisenyaAtoms you don’t need to rinse after you just wait 4 mins then I use a conditioner after for your to 20 minutes. It’s worth the buy trust me as a pro hairdresser the results are amazing
Ahhh u finally did this video! 💕💕 I'm actually on my second use of k18, can't wait to see the result after 6 uses. I can already see a little difference on second use today
I'm trying to find a video of olaplex 4 in 1 vs k18 I can't find any
Hi Abbey ❤, Hope you're keeping well and having a good weekend 😊! My hair is long and prone to tangles and if I didn't use conditioner my hair would be a disaster to use the K18! Therefore Olaplex gets my vote.
I love olaplex 3 and will always use it. Thanks Olaplex! Abbey, you have beautiful hair!!!
So, off topic -- me, will be self tanning today for the first time in years. Also me, binge watching Abbey's self tanning videos. Wish me luck!
I split my hair in four section for both products. I put one pump closer to my finger tips rub together then apply to first quadrant. I still have product left to I let go of the second quadrant ( I start with the back quadrants) and use the remainder there. Then to make sure I use every last bit I slather everything together. Next I do the same for the front. So that two “pumps” for each product. I must say I also use olaplex 6 ( leave in conditioner) on my olaplex days. And although my hair is super damaged I wash twice a week and alternate between products. I also just let it air dry as opposed to styling.
Results: after 2 weeks of doing this - I’ve noticed a softer texture with the olaplex. That said I also haven’t given k19 enough time to kick in. They say 4-6 washes and I’m only at two. Regardless my hair is as damaged as it could get. My plan is to go out 4 weeks or so doing this process (hopefully seeing some improvement) then continue with only one of the products for two weeks or so prob olaplex then move on to k19. I don’t know if this will be effective or not but honestly I’m so desperate to fix my overly bleached hair that I’m willing to put both at the same time if I thought it would help (not really but you guys know what I mean). Lastly I should mention my hair is by far much shorter than the OP. I’d say it’s abt a little past my shoulders.
K18 was and is the better choice for me ! I’ll use both as well but k18 I’ve used twice and see better results with the one product be 7 of olaplex.
I've found wide toothed combs to be the best to detangle my long, fine hair when wet. Once I've used that, then I go in with a comb with teeth closer together. Depending on how tangled my hair is, I might have to use a couple of combs with teeth closer together, each comb with finer teeth. I would describe it as "gradual combing"
I think both are awesome and rotate them.
Have you ever tried fibreplex from schwarzkopf it's also a bond builder. I'm curious if it's as good as olaplex
I like k18 because I
Don’t have to waste time letting it sit snd rinsing snd washing after. For me if I shampoo only , I get major knots. So The trick to
Using k18 in order to avoid all of knots, is to let it sit on the hair for the 4 mins and then brush your hair. Once it has a chance to absorb,
It will loosen the and moisturize the hair.
Correct. That's what I do let the K18 absorb in before detangling and it works.
I recently bought k18 and my hairdresser told me after the first 4-6 uses to use it once a month. Which would mean (if you use 2 pumps) that it would last about 1,5-2 years which makes it way cheaper. But even id you use 3 pumps that’s about a year which is still cheaper than olaplex
How much ml is in one use?
I was just researching as to what product to buy and ran across your videos. I will definitely give Olaplex a try since my hair is similar to yours! Thanks for the great review!! :)
I used olaplex for years and got zero benefits. I’ve just ordered the big 150ml bottle of K18 and the 150ml spray (it’s sold here in Australia online thankfully!) and I’m looking forward to it being better!
How was the results? I’m in oz as well
Olaplex #3 is the take home maintenance treatment after getting the actual olaplex 1&2 treatment in the salon. If you do not have the olaplex 1&2 treatment in your hair #3 isn't doing anything. Number 3 is just a diluted version of 2 that keeps the actual treatment in your hair.
I disagree. I never go to a salon. I use only Olaplex#3 after washing my long, bleached hair and it works wonders! And I am happy with my hair! Please don't discourage people from using Olaplex#3. That's just wrong.
I have curly Afro textured hair that i heat train with keratins and hands down k18! I haven’t used conditioner in 6 months. Thanx k18 hands down worth every cent!
Oh wow no conditioner in 6 months?! I too have afro textured hair that I heat train. I'm on my 3rd K18 treatment and my hair feels amazing! I was wondering if I could just keep using this and ditch rinse out conditioner for good? How often do you wash? Do you just use K18 with no breaks?
@@cfoster6804 i like to keep things simple. Shampoo 1-3xs a week, Depends on my workout schedule, i haven’t done a break a yet. I only use 2 products in my hair. Shampoo and k18. Hair feels and looks amazing. Also haven’t trimmed in about 8 months and don’t feel the need to.
@@cfoster6804 also one of the k18 chemist on their Facebook page said in a Q&A the product can’t be overused , it’s not like antiquated protein treatments.
The same type of hair you do. And when I use K 18 I put it all over as best as I can and after the four minutes, I can get the con through very very easily. I do not need any other conditioner. It is a rich conditioner on its own. So I’m not sure why you’re having this problem.
i think k18 makes my bleached hair dry. i dont see any difference.
However, i see with olaplex!
I too, have fine, color treated hair and K-18 would have been a disaster to my hair, as you described in your video. So glad I didn’t purchase. I will stick to my Olaplex 0 and 3 that keeps my hair healthy. 😘
Ah thank you for such an informative breakdown!! I'm so torn, I use Olaplex no. 3 and have been seriously eyeing k18... my hair looks almost exactly like your "distressed" before shot for the k18 trial (except my hair just looks like that all the time lol). So the fact that it helps with that is so tempting...but my hair is also majorly snarly if I don't use conditioner! Like I get actual mats in my hair if I don't detangle, so I'm not sure if eliminating conditioner is feasible... and it's so expensive to try and potentially be disappointed. Augh. Much to think about.
I got K18 recently and ive now done the full 6 treatments (which is less than one bottle) and honestly it is WELL worth it! I can see a real difference in my hair! It went from 'gummy' and difficult to dry due to extreme bleach damage to looking and feeling normal and EVEN slightly shiny again!
@@sherbetstraw8605 Thank you, I think I'm gonna go for it...that sounds promising!
@@amanda2382 Let me know if it works for you !!
You can use leave in conditioner and oil after you wait the for minutes with k18. I have dry curly hair and doing it that way made a huge difference. I use both olaplex and k18. I bought the small bottle from Sephora and did the 6 treatments in a row and have used it three times since and still have some in the bottle. A little goes a long way!
Why not use both as Olaplex is a wash off and k18 is a leave on, but I don't really know as I'm a guy so aside from hair mask and argan oil I don't too much hair treatments. Or now start with Epres then shampoo then use K18.
I need to know your secrets! How did you use the same bottle 10x?! I purchased it after your first video & I ended up with
Funny cause k18 didnt do a thing for me but olaplex saved my hair. Guess you got to test them out so which one works best for you
K18 is also a permanent solution to damaged hair! So it will not wash out like every other treatment out there
After I apply the k18 to my hair, it combs out no problem. I feel like it acts like a leave in conditioner. I do have below shoulder length, curly, tangle prone hair.
Same here and I have super coily fine strands. K18 detangles my hair very well.
I used olaplex 3 and results were kinda meh. Used olaplex 1 and 2 and results were great. Wonder if k18 is better than olaplex 1 and 2
I've used many bottles of Olaplex no. 3 but never tried K18 before. It's quite pricy and I'm not a fan of the usage instructions in terms of not conditioning at all. I prefer to slap on Olaplex while I watch TV.
I reached out to K18 to double check rinsing out after 4 minutes was OK. I like using a hair mask because my hair is long and medium/thick and can be diffucult to comb through. They responded that is totally fine to wash out because after 4 minutes k18 has done all it is going to do. I’ve only used twice so can’t comment on long term benefits. My hair is already in great shape from Olaplex 3. I love that K18 responded so quickly but it bugs me they don’t change the directions to reflect what they told me about rinsing out the product after 4 minutes. Bottle in small, I need at least 3 pumps so $75 bottle will probably get me through 6 washes they recommend to start. At that point I can reassess if olaplex 3 or k18 is better.
To be honest if y cut your hair passing your shoulders length as your beautiful face is quite long, change your color to more warm tones, as you use more make up to compensate the wrong hair color, use a frame face lift of color and give your hair time to heal you'll way better off.
I wonder if you could add the k18 to a spray bottle with a little water and make your own spray, or if that would somehow compromise the efficacy...
I use K18 with conditioner.
I didn't really like K18 and prefer olaplex. Which surprised me because of the way K18 is marketed. But yeah thats my opinion
I tried mixing k18 AND Olaplex No 6 (leave in cream) with water in a spray bottle! Works really well AND can be used in between washes to perk up and protect when daily styling.
That's a great idea!!!!
That may backfire with longterm use. You guys need to start using products as instructed.
that's not how it's instructed, k18 is expensive af why waste the product if you are not maximizing the absorption?
There is a reason why conditioner shouldn't be used after shampoo to avoid anything blocking the cuticle from absorbing the active ingredient. Adding Olaplex 6 is counter productive.
I'd love to try K18 but the price is just too high for something I would need to repurchase so often, plus with shipping and taxes to my country it's just not justifiable 😫
One bottle 50ml of K18 you can use from 16 to 50 washes, depending on your hair density and length. So it's from 1,50$ to 4,68$ per use. Olaplex no3 100ml is about for 6-7 washes. So it's from 4$ to 4,60$ per wash. But if you want to get better benefits you should use no.0 together, then the price rises from 8$-9,3$ per wash.
Yea olaplex 0 and 3 is really working great on my hair and it’s 56$ for both and I get about 5 treatments so $10 each. It’s more affordable if you only do it once or twice a month.
I have the same issue with K18. Looking for a GREAT leave in conditioner, as it really needs more moisture. But both work well for me in different ways. I’m using both now as an experiment until my next salon visit.
Bumble bumble hair primer
@@Aphrodite01 I totally forgot to thank you for the tip! I tried it and it may be good, but it stinks so bad I just can't handle it. Other people I know thinks it smells amazing, but I'm unfortunately gagging :(
I think a better comparison would have been with Olaplex No 8. I personally find that using both in a routine is great. Starting with Olaplex No 2 (or No 3), a really good shampoo specific for the hair condition and type, K18, and then a barrier repair emollient or oil with panthenol, ceramides, fatty acids, ect. in a formula that is right for you (whether that may be a thick cream formula or something lighter such as a spray).
Also, the K18 spray formula used to be available for consumers and I personally love that one. However since the re branding from Khairpep to K18 and their rise in market, my assumption would be that consumers may be using it wrong as the pH of it is about a 7 which is enough to open the cuticle and can be more damaging if not sealed... I've been using K18 for just under 2 years now and while I do love the results, we need to understand the difference even if both are created to repair the hair and disulfide bonds, the way in which that happens cannot be achieved if your hair is beyond the point of repair.
So, bottom line... a trustful routine (for hair that is not too badly damaged): 1: Olaplex (before shampooing if your hair has not got too much product build up or dry shampoo). 2: Shampoo (twice if your hair needs it, or if you need to shampoo first, then use Olaplex and shampoo again), after that you can go straight into K18 (pump onto wet hands and rub vigorously until the product appears white and fluffy), and then after those 4 minutes, use something that will maintain hydration and lock in moisture to help seal and smooth the cuticle with soothing ingredients.
Just reading through this response and i hope you don't mind me contacting you but you seem to know what you are talking about haha and I just wondered if there was a barrier repair cream/spray that you would recommend that contains the panthenol, fatty acids, ceramides etc that you mentioned? Thanks so much!
@@natasha24xox No worries! I guess being a beauty advisor, esthetician, and now, apprentice hairdresser, has its benefits 😂
I would have a look at Oribe Supershine (contains panthenol, amino acids, fatty acids, ect), Kerastase Resistance Extentioniste Serum (ceramides and amino acids), and I do believe Shu Uemura have one but for some reason I cannot find it.
***Don’t feel like you have to read below, it’s just me ranting and explaining about hair lmao***
To find more products that contain these type of ingredients, it is more ‘luxury’ brands, and there is a food reason why… companies such as Estée Lauder, Loreal and some privately owned brands not only have the finances, but they also have the resources to these manufacturers, laboratories and the professionals behind them to create such things, therefore are able to create FDA-approved sunscreens in a snap, engineer the science, and patent the technology, even if these companies don’t have the nicest intentions, morals or backstories.
I could recommend many different products… and while they all claim to do absolutely everything, I think that what’s more challenging is knowing what your specific hair needs and how different people go about it. For example, if you have a pipe leakage and you don’t really know what’s going on but you just want it to stop… you could mask it with a whole heap of duct tape and super glue, try replace and buy all the things for it yourself, or call a plumber… the list goes on.
Barrier creams are more so about certain nutritional value and keeping moisture from escaping than anything else. If you look at the 2:4:2 ratio of the skin and migration of keratinocytes, the hair can actually benefit from this too as the sebum travels up from the hair shaft, it naturally moisturises the cuticle which is why our hair gets so oily (not always a bad thing). So when replacing that moisture, using those things like ceramides, cholesterol and fatty acids, it will realistically work better than on just plain glycerin, dimethicone and shea butter alone as they don’t have the same molecular structure, like fitting a triangle shaped object into a circle shape hole.
@@Brandonbrianjackson Thank you so much Brandon for such a detailed response! I have used olaplex for a while and thinking of trying k18 as my hair is really damaged. But I have also been looking for a serum/cream/oil to put in my hair after washing as it is also so so dry and I just want to make it really healthy again so will definitely look into the ones you mentioned!
@@natasha24xox if you want something that is comparable to k18 but focuses on both repair and moisture retention, Olaplex’s 4 in 1 and No 8 seem to have a great understanding as it has a really nice well rounded formula that deliver the best of both worlds (in my opinion). It may contain less amino acids, however, that doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s any less effective, in fact if you look at the ingredients, you get a lot more in terms of ingredients and also the amount of product per millilitre too. If you think about how k18 works, it relies on just the molecular biochemical amino acid peptide to do everything as amino acids are known to be very multifaceted and in this case do everything from repair, style and condition, but I believe what they are missing are some really well researched and highly efficient ingredients that have been known to work well. Again, Olaplex’s 4 in 1 and No 8 is very similar but just with less amino acids, and more of those barrier function ingredients such as those oils: Avocado, Meadowfoam, Rice Bran, Hemp Seed, Rose Hip, Jojoba, and Safflower; soothing/moisturising barrier supportive ingredients such as: Sodium PCA, Ceramide AP, Ceramide NP, Panthenol, Squalane, and Tocopherol; hydrating water-loving humectants such as: Glycerin and Sodium Hyaluronate; versatile multifaceted amino acids: Glycine, Arginine, Alanine, Serine, Valine, Isoleucine, Proline, Threonine, Histidine, Phenylalanine, Aspartic Acid, Pyroglutamic Acid (PCA); and Olaplex’s patented ingredient: Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate. I suggest you have a look! 🙂
I think a clarifying shampoo would be great for you! I could go in to a little bit of detail as to why if you wanted me too. Not all clarifying shampoos are made the same though, some are high pH which is not always a bad thing, but the whole idea would be remove buildup for a clean slate as the hair can get aggressively resistant when there’s too much buildup from environmental damage. Think of the humidity you were mentioning… there are so many ways we can get air such as air conditioners, heaters, hot and cold weather, steamers, gyms, even lack of air. All these things can cause the hair to do many things especially if these types of situations of environment are changing rapidly during the day, and because hair doesn’t hold onto water, when dry after a humid environment, I can imagine that the hair would carry a lot of pollutants after a while, ect. It’s not necessarily too much to worry about when it comes to this and I’m only assuming from how you described your lifestyle so I hope that helps. Say you use a clarifying shampoo, then k18 and wait 4 minutes, apply something like the Olaplex N°8 straight on top and then rise, something like Oribe Supershine would be amazing. If if your hair needs something with more moisture, I would consider trying out something like Oribe’s Curl Gelée. Let me know what you think!
I am so excited I do not know if I watched this video but I love olaplex and have k18 on the way.
Your hair is so beautiful! 🥰🥰🥰 Very informative video, thank you! 💖💖💖 My hair is super damaged, even thou I have haircut regularly and get cellophane treatment in salon every 8 weeks. I use Olaplex #3, #4, #6 and #7. I use overnight mask and argan oil, and different leave in conditioners from Living Proof and Kerastase. But my hair still doesn’t look good, just feels soft. I ordered K18, I hope it will help! 😁❤️
Abbey!!! You just continue to get more gorgeous!! I'm telling you, the newer color has been such a game changer to your color(skin tone etc) love love love 💕
I think as long as you use a conditioner without silicones in it, maybe using the K18 afterwards would be fine. The K18 website said the primary reason they suggest not using a conditioner is because many of them contain silicones and that would prevent the product from being absorbed properly.
Then they would say use silicone free conditioner. It's best to follow directions or you'll just be wasting product.
@@cfoster6804 Yeah absolutely, it’s always a good idea to use as directed initially, but since she already has the product and finds that it doesn’t work with her needs, using a silicone free conditioner seems like a good way to trouble shoot.
I use Oaplex 4 and 1 and leave it in. I love it!
Try conditioning and detangling your hair BEFORE you shampoo and subsequently use the k18. I have fine, curly hair so I know the struggle and thats what I tend to with olaplex because they want it applied to clean, dry hair. For curly hair, that’s virtually impossible for me.
I'm so annoyed by all these comments written by people who haven't used Olaplex correctly or who are doing unfair comparisons. Olaplex no. 3 was never meant to be the full treatment. No. 3 is for maintenance after getting the salon treatment 1+2. K18 fan club has twisted the truth by doing comparisons incorrectly when many of them haven't even had the full Olaplex treatment. There is so much more of the active ingredient in Olaplex no. 1 than in the no 3. No. 1 is actually the product that needs to be compared with K18. Comparing it to no. 3 is unfair. Also it is not a proper comparison to use K18 on Olaplex treated hair because the result is due to the combined effect of the two products. After K18 made its debut, so many influencers who previously praised Olaplex to heavens, started to talk crap about Olaplex and spread misinformation about it. So sad how this social media influencing & marketing works.
Ok but everyone can't get to a salon to get 1 and 2. So if you have to rely on salon treatments for no. 3 to work well then K18 wins again. Only thing that sucks about K18 is it needs the drying alcohol to deliver the active ingredient.
@@cfoster6804 Alcohol, that is ethanol in this case, is not necessarily drying when it is mixed with other ingredients. I use few skin & hair care products with ethanol and have never had any drying problems. My cactus hydrating spray has ethanol in it and yet it is still very hydrating. When it comes to chemistry the effect of one molecule can be drastically changed when other molecules are present.
Olaplex no. 1 & 2 can be bought by a non-professinal from some shops and the trial size kit with 3 bottles (1, 2 & 3 each 100 ml) is also available. When reading unbiased reviews from other websites, the winner isn't as clear as the influencers claim to be. Also influencers are paid high amounts of money to make reviews that prefer the payer's products and this is not just about beauty products but also other products and services like VPN, headphones etc. But I would probably take the money too if it was a matter of luxurious life and poverty or average income. That's why I never trust influencer reviews.
Maintenance products are required to keep the results good and the treatments need to be redone every now and then. Nothing is permanent.
I love k18 it has saved my hair. Not trying to be overdramatic but it was in pretty rough shape.
I have used both products. Olaplex for months and K18 for about the last three months. BTW they say the K18 1.7 oz bottle has 50 pumps in the little bottle. Really?
I prefer the K18 as I saw better results and ease of use. As a plus it is supposedly suppose to permanently change the hair strand versus Olaplex that washes out after many washes.
I am blessed to have no tangles in my hair. I purchased the K18- 5 oz bottle for $89 on Etsy. What a deal! I verified that the product batch number was legitimate from K18.
I will continue to use Olaplex shampoo and conditioner. I will also use no. 3 when I use the no. 8 moisture mask which I love. I rotate no. 6 hair smoother in my live in conditioners but even with my very thick hair can only use a pea size as my hair will get greasy if I use more.
Instead of Olaplex oil my personal preference for hair oil is Kerastase hands down to a ton of other oils I have tried.
I have not used Olaplex, but K18 works very well. Even got the ability to curl my hair back with it!
Abbey stop reading my mind. I have literally looking to find a dupe to Olaplex 3 for a while now. Not for price though for the fragrance. If you (or anyone whose tried both) read this can you let me know if K18 is stronger or weaker in the fragrance department than Olaplex; both from the bottle and after Olaplex is rinsed or K18 is left on the hair. Olaplex doesn't kill me with the fragrance all of the time but it's almost winter in Alaska and my migraines have already started to ramp up. I don't need a leave in that is super fragrant to make it worse. For example the Brigeo Don't despair, repair lines fragrance is absolutely way too strong for me and I had to actually shampoo (I 99% only co-wash) my hair multiple times to get them out. Olaplex fragrance is mostly just annoying / mildly irritating on migraine free days. I would love to see a video on the best fragrance free products for damaged hair. I know it would be one heck of a challenge.
K18 has a very minimal but clean fragrance
K18 smells like mildly fragrance rubbing alcohol to me. It doesn't last.
@@cfoster6804 thanks! The not lasting part is important. I just saw they have a trial size. $12 for 5ml. 😯
Love your videos, I have both also and honestly love them both differently! They are both great products and benefit my long damaged hair enough that I believe I need both.
They have the spray available at Sephora.
Do you recall how much? Tia
@@tammytodd1664 when you get in the Sephora website it says 28 dollars
@@raechel0116 Are you talking about Olaplex? K18 spray is only for professionals.
@@cfoster6804 yes I am talking about olaplex.
I TOTALLY AGREE that K18 needs to make the spray available for at home use!! I currently use both. I have the same issue as you - fine thick hair. Very susceptible to EXTREME tangles due to bleaching and because my hair fine. Love your videos girl! You ROCK! Hopefully k18 will take notice of the spray being more functional for most of us with longer thicker hair. Also I find I have to use more k18 when my hair has only been shampooed as well. Is it ok to use more when your hair is so tangled? Because 4 pumps in long fine thick hair is just not enough I feel like. Any thoughts?
Thank GOD you have a video on this! Thank you!!
I have the Olaplex N 3 and for a long time I didnt really get how to incorporate it into my hair routine even with the directions it was just odd. So since there I started using it in the shower and let it sit for a few minutes then apply the shampoo and condition that Olaplex has and it works wonders for my fine hair
This is exactly how I use it too. So much easier this way
Olaplex released a large size of No 3 during the Holidays November/December of last year, I'm sure they will do it again!
K18 says you can use conditioner after the treatment so try that next time
Your Day 6 hair looks beautiful. ❤️
I'm just wondering maybe we can use olaplex before shampooing and then k18 after shampooing 🤔🤔🤔 maybe the results will be even better 🙌🏻 what do you think?
Have your hairdresser do a stand alone treatment with #1 and #2. Personally, I don’t care for Olaplex to be incorporated into the color, but done as a stand alone treatment after it is dyed.
I have every possible issue going on with my hair now and it is depressing. I keep chopping it and it isn’t getting better.
So I am thinking about getting both and switching between them…and throwing in L’Oréal detox once a week. Lol
Have you tried the detox system yet?
For me k18 is way better however I still use my olaplex too. I figure bouncing between the 2 certainly can't make my hair any worse 😆
Fr getting good results. When my stylist comments on it, saying whatever you've been doing to ur hair keep it up! I know I'm doing good.
I’ve been a hairdresser 33 years, and I just found your channel. I’m absolutely obsessed! Please keep the technical videos coming, I am living for them, LOL. I am a bit of a chemistry gig as well. I am quite impressed with your knowledge and presentation on products. Keep up the great work! #teamolaplex
I also can use K 18 because of my intense hair tangles. I have found a way to hack Ola Plex three. On top of using it as a mask however many times a week I also actually use it as a leave in product even though the company doesn’t recommend it as such. It works very effectively for frizz control I highly recommend everyone try this! I live in Florida where the humidity is high and I find this product works wonderfully as a mask and leave in !!
Cant*
I have done that too in the past with excellent results. Then I stopped when I read that they don’t recommend it. However, it was amazing for wave definition in rainy London without so much frizz. May go back to it now that you mentioned it. 😊 Thanks ☺️
Hey Abbey! great review. I love when you get scientific!
Why don’t you brush your hair while having shampoo in it? Then rinse carefully and we’ll and then K18 with much less tangles!!!!
My hair after a shampoo also gets very tangled so putting the k18 was a hassle at first...however, I got a wet brush off amazon (the one that has a hook at the end for in shower brushing) and let me tell you....it detangled my hair so easily and so smoothly! It made putting the k18 on towel dried hair so much easier! And then I used the brush to comb the product throughout my hair...waited the 4 minutes, and I swear- my hair has never felt soooooo soft!!!!!!! I love k18! Honestly after trying both k18 and olaplex I have to say k18 is the winner! It works better for heat damaged hair while olaplex I think works for more chemically damaged hair (ex: bleach)
Ok maybe that's why I didn't have the best results with Olaplex but I am with K18...I only have heat damage. I have no chemical services done to my hair.
I absolutely loved K18 first 4 consecutive washes. But on my 5th and 6th wash I felt my hair was very dry and lifeless, difficult to comb through. Don’t know what’s wrong. Anyone experienced the same?
Probably protein overload. Once your hair has enough protein you don’t want to add anymore protein or it will make your hair feel very damaged from my expert and readings online
You are a hair god! Can you review the shu umera rice water treatment!
Let me look into this!!
My hairdresser that uses k18 said that it has to be blow dried in once applied.
Which is the main thing that deterred me from the product.
Is this true?
So I just tan out of K18 ot only lasted me 1 month. I do have long hair I needed between 16-18 pumps the first time I used it. The more I used it the less pump I needed when I ran out I needed like 10 pumps. I would say it's pricey and it's very inconvenient that you cannot but the 5oz bottle unless you are a professional. Thanks for this video I'm going to try olapex 3 😁
Did you notice a difference?
I love K18 but I'm only buying it if it's on sale. $75 is too much for that tiny bottle.
I recommend purchasing the 5 oz bottle from Image Beauty. It’s a bit more than the 1.7 oz bottle, but a MUCH better bargain.