How to Use the K18 Mask Correctly Step-by-Step

Whether you’re dealing with dryness, frizz, split ends, or more extreme damage from frequent coloring and chemical treatments, the leave-in molecular repair hair mask will fix it for you.

Powered by patented K18PEPTIDE™, this bestselling formula is beloved by customers and stylists alike for good reason: it really works (when used correctly, that is…). And we get it, the K18 mask is so different from anything else on the market that it can feel intimidating at first. Good news, though: it’s designed to be simple, fast, and effective.

For anyone confused, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use the K18 mask correctly, so you get the best results possible every time.

How to Use the K18 Mask Correctly Step-by-Step

first: shampoo

Always start with freshly washed hair. peptide prep™ detox shampoo gently clarifies the hair and scalp, so patented K18PEPTIDE™ can penetrate the innermost layers of your hair for maximum damage repair.

Pause here! Skip conditioner.

then: towel-dry hair

After rinsing out your shampoo, step out of the shower and gently towel-dry your hair. You’re aiming for damp—not dripping wet. Too much water can dilute the formula, while too little dampness can make application uneven.

it’s time! apply K18 mask

Use 1 to 3 pumps, depending on your hair’s length, thickness, and level of damage. For most hair types, one to two pumps is plenty because it’s a highly concentrated formula, but if your strands are on the thicker and longer side, shoot for 2 ½ or 3 full pumps. Work it evenly through your hair, starting at the ends and working up toward the roots.

And remember: less is more with this highly concentrated formula.

next: wait 4 minutes

This is where the magic happens! After you’ve applied the mask, pause and wait for 4 minutes before touching your hair. During this time, the patented K18PEPTIDE™ is working its way into your hair’s inner layers to reverse damage from bleach, color + chemical services, and heat*.

now you can style as usual

After the four minutes are up, you’re free to comb through your hair and style as usual. This is a no rinse formula, so no need to hop back in the shower.

how often to use?

For best results, use the K18 mask consistently for the first 4 to 6 washes after a dye job or chemical treatment. From there, you can shift to every 3 to 4 washes or as needed for maintenance.

most common mask mistakes (and how to avoid them)

Hey, mistakes happen to the best of us—but sadly, they can compromise the way the mask works, and in turn, your results. Here’s the most common missteps we see, and how to avoid them…

Not skipping conditioner. It feels instinctive to reach for conditioner after shampooing, but this can create a barrier that keeps the peptide from penetrating deeply. Always shampoo only before applying your mask for maximum results.
Using the mask on dry or dirty hair. The formula can’t properly penetrate dry, unwashed hair, so make sure you always shampoo first and then apply it to towel-dried hair.
Applying too much. Say it with us: less is more! Because the formula is highly concentrated, a little goes a long way. Start with the minimum (1 to 2 pumps) and build only if you truly need it.
Not waiting the full 4 minutes. This might feel like a small step, but it’s essential because K18PEPTIDE™ needs this time to penetrate hair’s innermost layers and reverse damage.
Rinsing it out. Once the four minutes are up, you don’t rinse. This mask is designed to work as a leave-in treatment! Just style as usual and go about your day.
Using on very wet hair. If your hair is dripping wet, the product will be diluted and may not absorb evenly. Towel-dry first for the best absorption and repair.