Free Standard Shipping on $50+ Orders
free returns. buy with confidence

PEPTIDE PREP™ pH maintenance shampoo

Color-safe, pH-optimized cleansing shampoo formulated with K18PEPTIDE™
Rated 4.5 out of 5
Based on 119 reviews
8.5 oz
A color-safe, pH-optimized shampoo with the patented K18PEPTIDE™ to effectively cleanse while maintaining hair health, reducing frizz and tangles, preserving color and enhancing shine.
  • pH-optimized pH-optimized
  • microbiome-friendly microbiome-friendly
  • 17 ingredients + patented peptide 17 ingredients + patented peptide
OR
FREE SHIPPING ON $50+ ORDERS. FREE RETURNS
Every purchase supports K18 x Plastic Bank efforts to radically simplify waste.
In 2022 we stopped 147 Metric tons of plastic
=
7.3M+ single-use plastic bottles from reaching the ocean

More to know

Safe but powerful cleansing: Plant-derived surfactants deliver safe but effective high-power cleansing to break down and remove dirt + oil

Designed for damaged hair: pH-optimized formula helps prevent excess swelling of the hair cuticle during washing - which helps maintain color, improve hair health and shine, and reduce frizz

Gentle enough to use every time you cleanse: Gentle on hair AND scalp - pH-optimized formula mimics hair’s natural pH, to reduce cuticle swelling and maintain hair health, and preserve the scalp microbiome

Key benefits

Less is more formulation delivers a superior clean without compromise:

Optimized pH cleanses hair and scalp without over-drying

Certified microbiome-friendly formula removes dirt and oil without disrupting the scalp’s natural protective barrier

K18PEPTIDE™ helps reduce protein loss to keep hair feeling healthy and strong

How to use

  1. Safe to use every time you wash.
  2. Massage into hair, focusing on scalp.
  3. Thoroughly rinse.
  4. Repeat as needed.

Ingredients

Water (Aqua) (Eau), Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Methyl 2-Sulfolaurate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate, sh-Oligopeptide-78, Panthenol, Glycerin, Sodium Phytate, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Disodium 2-Sulfolaurate, Caprylyl Glycol, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Benzoic Acid, Citric Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Fragrance (Parfum), Limonene.

pairs well with
Allure Best of Beauty Award Winner
Full-Size Leave-In Molecular Repair Hair Mask 50mLFull-Size Leave-In Molecular Repair Hair Mask 50mL

full-size leave-in molecular repair hair mask

Rated 4.6 out of 5
Based on 6854 reviews
4-minute leave-in treatment to reverse hair damage View Full-Size Leave-In Molecular Repair Hair Mask 50mL product
Molecular Repair Hair OilMolecular Repair Hair Oil

molecular repair hair oil

Rated 4.8 out of 5
Based on 146 reviews
Weightless oil that strengthens, repairs damage + reduces frizz View Molecular Repair Hair Oil product

Description

A color-safe, pH-optimized shampoo with the patented K18PEPTIDE™ to effectively cleanse while maintaining hair health, reducing frizz and tangles, preserving color and enhancing shine.

the PEPTIDE PREP™ difference

Engineered for the most effective clean

got questions?

Get started here

When do I use the pH maintenance shampoo?

This pH-balanced formula is gentle enough to use every time you cleanse, and leaves a clean canvas for treatment products.

What makes the pH maintenance shampoo special?

The pH maintenance shampoo is special due to its optimized pH that helps maintain the hair cuticle. This prevents excess water from entering the hair, which can cause damage, dullness, frizz, and tangling. With this shampoo, your color is maintained, hair feels strong, healthy, looks smooth with less frizz, and is easier to style with less tangles. This formula moisturizes hair without weighing it down, and preserves the scalp microbiome for a healthier-feeling scalp and a gentler cleanse.

How does the pH maintenance shampoo work?

The pH maintenance shampoo is powered by plant-derived surfactants to deliver safe but effective high-power cleansing that breaks down and removes dirt + oil. Designed for damaged hair, this pH-optimized formula helps prevent excess swelling of the hair cuticle during washing—which helps maintain color, improve hair health and shine, reduce frizz, and preserve the scalp microbiome. It mimics hair’s natural pH, so this formula is gentle enough to use every time you cleanse.

Why are the PEPTIDE PREP™ shampoos different?

Optimized with ideal pH for the hair + scalp environment, only 18 ingredients, no fillers, and the K18PEPTIDE™ to nourish hair while removing buildup, these shampoos are engineered to deliver a superior clean without stripping color or messing with hair + scalp balance. Whether you’re looking for an effective + gentle regular cleanse or a heavy-duty detox— these are the only 2 shampoos you need for every type of clean.

microbiome-friendly

Optimized pH preserves a balanced scalp microbiome + protects hair’s natural moisture levels for a smooth hair result.

reviews
average rating 4.5 out of 5
Based on 119 reviews
  • 5 Stars
    96 Reviews
  • 4 Stars
    8 Reviews
  • 3 Stars
    6 Reviews
  • 2 Stars
    2 Reviews
  • 1 Star
    7 Reviews
87% of reviewers would recommend this product to a friend
Customer photos and videos
119 Reviews
Reviewed by Brooke C.
Verified Buyer
I recommend this product
Age
45 - 54
Hair Concern
  • Fragile/brittle hair
Hair Type
  • Straight/Wavy
  • Fine/Thin
My Results
  • Shinier Hair
Rated 4 out of 5
Review posted

Committed Customer

I have been a customer from the very beginning and use all 4 products almost exclusively. I was advised to use the Maintenance shampoo regularly, Detox monthly and Serum 4x post hair coloring. I also use the oil but have a little trouble with the distribution of the oil because it has a water like consistency. I have loved the shampoo and serum, even buying it for my adult daughter because of the great results.

Just recently, I have had to reintroduce conditioner after not using conditioner very infrequently due to brittle hair. I also have installed a hard water filter to avoid the poor hair/skin issues. Is there a sweet spot you can recommend for using conditioner in conjunction with the full line?

Loading...
Was this helpful?

K18Hair

Thank you for your review Brooke! K18 will not wash out of your hair. If you apply K18 first and let it set for 4 minutes to fully penetrate the hairs cortex. Once that time has elapsed, you can layer any hair product of your choice, rewet your hair, use conditioner and rinse out, use your heating tools and or style as usual. I've included a few links on how to properly apply K18. Please reach out with additional questions Hello@K18hair.com.
https://www.k18hair.com/blogs/consumer/k18-fundamental-5-help-its-not-working-why
https://www.k18hair.com/blogs/consumer/k18-fundamentals-01-how-much-do-i-use

Reviewed by JENIFER P.
Verified Buyer
I recommend this product
Age
35 - 44
Hair Concern
  • Chemical damage
  • Heat damage
  • Color-care
  • Frizz
  • Dryness
Hair Type
  • Fine/Thin
  • Straight/Wavy
My Results
  • Less Frizz
  • Visible Difference
  • Smoother Hair
  • Soft Touchable Hair
  • Stronger Hair
Rated 5 out of 5
Review posted

Loveee ❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥

I have everything you guys make and I absolutely love it if I don’t want to blow dry my hair I don’t have to it’s almost like a keratin treatment too!!

Loading...
Was this helpful?

K18Hair

Thank you for your review!

Reviewed by Carrie H.
Verified Buyer
I recommend this product
Age
25 - 34
Hair Concern
  • Dryness
  • Split-Ends
  • Frizz
Hair Type
  • Medium Density
  • Straight/Wavy
My Results
  • Less Frizz
  • Stronger Hair
  • Soft Touchable Hair
  • Smoother Hair
  • Defined Curl/Wave Pattern
Rated 5 out of 5
Review posted

New favorite

I have very long hair past my waist. I’ve had scalp buildup problems in the past and my hair has felt really heavy and unmanageable at times. I reluctantly (because of the price) tried k18 and I’ve been really impressed. My hair feels light and clean, it’s more manageable and I can go longer in between washes now without having to put my hair in a bun. I don’t even use conditioner, just the shampoo and the leave in once I’m out of the shower. The price is steep but considering you use so little and it’s so effective I say it’s absolutely a good investment and it’s worth it. The sample sized shampoo lasted me 6 months, Im sure the large bottle will last me an entire year or more. I’d say if you’re worried about the price just go for it you’ll save money in the long run and have beautiful hair.

Loading...
Was this helpful?

K18Hair

We appreciate your review Carrie! Thank you!

Reviewed by Cathy H.
Verified Buyer
I recommend this product
Age
45 - 54
Hair Concern
  • Chemical damage
  • Heat damage
  • Frizz
  • Fragile/brittle hair
  • Dryness
Hair Type
  • Thick/Coarse
My Results
  • Less Frizz
  • Visible Difference
  • Smoother Hair
  • Less Breakage
  • Soft Touchable Hair
Rated 5 out of 5
Review posted

Real Results

My dry, course, damaged hair is being transformed with these k18 products! Worth it!

Loading...
Was this helpful?

K18Hair

Thank you Cathy for your review!

Reviewed by Susie c.
Verified Buyer
I recommend this product
Age
65+
Hair Concern
  • Chemical damage
  • Dryness
Hair Type
  • Fine/Thin
My Results
  • Stronger Hair
  • Visible Difference
Rated 5 out of 5
Review posted

Susea

Love all the K18 products. This says I could use this shampoo every day if needed. I’ve only used it a few times at 2-3 days in between however it’s always good to have options.

Loading...
Was this helpful?

recommended products

Mini Leave-In Molecular Repair Hair Mask 15 mLMini Leave-In Molecular Repair Hair Mask 15 mL
mini leave-in molecular repair hair mask
Rated 4.6 out of 5
Based on 6854 reviews
4-minute leave-in treatment to reverse hair damage
View Mini Leave-In Molecular Repair Hair Mask 15 mL product
PEPTIDE PREP™ detox shampoo 8.5ozPEPTIDE PREP™ detox shampoo 8.5oz
PEPTIDE PREP™ detox shampoo
Rated 4.7 out of 5
Based on 91 reviews
Color-safe, non-stripping clarifying shampoo with the K18PEPTIDE™
View Mini Leave-In Molecular Repair Hair Mask 15 mL product
Pro Distribution Partners

Paramount Beauty Supply
USA
Salon Services Pro
USA
Salon Service Group
USA
Salonwax Pro
USA
Premier Beauty Supply
USA
Launching Soon
Ozdare - Australia
AU
 
Launching Soon
American Crew Ltd. - New Zealand
NZ
 
Launching Soon
PlayGround - Hong Kong
HK
 
Launching Soon
Session Map - Sweden
SE
 
Launching Soon
Cyprus
CY
 
Launching Soon
Belgium
BE
 
Coming Early 2021
Canada
CA
 
Coming Early 2021
Czech Republic
CZ
 
Coming Early 2021
Finland
FI
 
Coming Early 2021
France
FR
 
Coming Early 2021
Germany
DE
 
Coming Early 2021
Ireland
IR
 
Coming Early 2021
Italy
IT
 
Coming Early 2021
Netherlands
NL
 
Coming Early 2021
Norway
NO
 
Coming Early 2021
Singapore
SG
 
Coming Early 2021
Taiwan
TW
 
Coming Early 2021
UK
UK
 
Coming Early 2021
thank you for visiting!

You are now being redirected to an official partner website for this region where you can shop K18 Hair.

Changed your mind? Go back.

00:00
Blackfire Tracking
subscribe + save 15%
healthy hair on your schedule
Pick your K18 + how often you want to replen.
We’ll send you a heads up before every delivery.
You’re in charge. Change the way you pay, skip a shipment, or cancel anytime.