the science behind K18
K18 is a biology-first haircare brand, powered by biotech. Using the power of nature and human biology, K18 unlocks new solutions to the biggest challenges in haircare — all while delivering a healthy canvas for hair expression. K18 creates purposeful products that are simple, effective, and biocompatible.
Our story began with a decade of complex research into the bioscience of hair, resulting in our patented molecular repair peptide. Through this research and the application of synthetic biology, we are able to do more with less, simplifying formulations and routines to support hair health and expression at home and in the salon.
K18PEPTIDE™ repairs hair at a molecular level across multiple types of bonds including polypeptide chains and disulfide bonds to reverse damage from bleach, color, chemical services, and heat*. Developed through biotechnology, the K18PEPTIDE™ is optimized for human biology and uniquely matches and clicks into hair’s keratin structure, reconnecting damage sites at the molecular level, K18PEPTIDE™ delivers durable repair for all hair types, restoring strength and elasticity.
This peptide was designed in accordance with our less-is-more formulation philosophy to simplify and minimize steps in hair routines. This biomimetic molecule laid the foundation for our biology-first approach to haircare and works in just four minutes, with no extra steps, and with results shown from the very first application. For salon use, find it in the K18REPAIR™ service (K18 professional molecular repair hair mask and PRO molecular repair hair mist), and for home use, find it in the molecular repair hair mask and molecular repair hair oil.
odorBIND™ revolutionizes what’s possible when targeting and eliminating odors. Using biotechnology and synthetic biology, K18 bioscientists utilized DNA databases to find and mimic the strongest olfactory systems (our sense of smell) found in nature. odorBIND™ harnesses that understanding of nature and biology to uniquely recognize, trap, and eliminate malodors, rendering them undetectable and releasing a subtle fragrance in their place. This smart-release molecule is vegan, cruelty-free, and certified Kosher and Halal. Find it in AirWash™, the reinvention of dry shampoo.
Patented resilicore™ heat-shielding technology protects from heat deeper than ever before*. Unlike traditional heat protectants that only coat hair’s cuticle, the size + molecular makeup of resilicore™ allows it to penetrate into hair's core to defend against heat from the cuticle to the cortex*—as deep as heat damage goes. Inspired by proteins in nature that can withstand extreme temperatures, this protective shield fortifies hair from within for maximum protection against color fade, dry feeling, dullness, and breakage. This heat-shielding tech is inspired by nature, and recreated in the lab to be vegan, sustainable + and cruelty-free. Find it in HeatBounce, the future of heat protection.
TripleBright is powered by K18 triple-action technology: ionic detox, precision violet technology, and a biopolymer.
Ionic detox removes brass-causing metals + minerals. It removes up to 3 months of brass from hard water minerals and metals in 1 wash*.
Precision violet technology neutralizes existing brassiness without staining or overtoning.
Biopolymer defends against future brass by helping prevent the reattachment of metals and minerals in future washes. Find it in TripleBright, the future of blonde care.
*k18hair.com/disclaimers