Fans of the celeb-loved K18 hair mask have been praising an £11 alternative that they say is ‘better’ and makes an even bigger difference to how smooth and soft it left their hair
If ever there was a cult-favourite haircare product, it’s the K18 Biomimetic Hairscience Leave-in Molecular Repair Hair Mask . A firm favourite amongst celebrities like Hailey Bieber and Sofia Richie, the molecular repairing mask has become a staple in salons and bathrooms around the world.
However, at £70 for a 50ml bottle it is definitely an A-list investment, which is why we couldn’t believe our eyes when we spotted this alternative being praised as “better than K18”. As well as being hailed for a better performance, the Hairification H24 Complex Leave-in Repair Mask is also much more affordable, priced at £10.99 for a comparative 50ml bottle.
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For anyone with dry, damaged and stressed out strands, a leave-in repairing mask like this is a must. It contains four main ingredients which help to strengthen your hair by up to 312%, reversing damage and leaving your hair soft, smooth and silky.
The Hairification H24 Complex Leave-in Repair Mask contains fibrehance, which encourages new bonds to build within your hair, as well as procutigen bond, which prevents further damage, moisture loss and breakage. To create that smooth, hydrated finish it also contains col-frag, and there’s even elaya renova, which protects hair from heat and UV damage caused by styling or being out in the sun.
The leave-in mask is super easy to use, too. Once you’ve got freshly washed and towel dried hair, simply apply one to three pumps into your palms and rub your hands together until it emulsifies into a thick, white paste.
You then just need to distribute this throughout your hair, making sure it’s evenly coating every strand. Wait for four minutes, then apply the rest of your usual products and style as usual. You should use the H24 Complex every time for the first four to six washes, then after that you can use it as and when you need it.
Whilst the Hairification H24 Complex is one of the most affordable options we’ve found, there are several other brands available which offer similar benefits. The Redken Acidic Bonding Concentrate Leave-In Treatment (was £25.70, now £23.13) helps to seal your hair’s cuticles, tame flyaways and repair damaged bonds that lead to frizz and breakage.
For something slightly more lightweight, the JVN Hair Complete Instant Recovery Serum is silicone and sulphate free, and helps to repair and strengthen damaged hair while protecting it against heat and environmental damage. You can pick up a 25ml jar for £12, or a full size 100ml jar for £28.
However, the Hairification H24 Complex is unbeaten when it comes to price, with praise from shoppers backing up its claims. One said: “This is better than K18 and a 1/4 of the price! Absolutely love it!!”
Another agreed: “Amazing after 5 uses hair is growing and this is making my hair smooth Tried the k version finished the whole bottle but didn’t notice as much difference, Even on application hair is soft and detangled I love this worth every penny.”
Some were unable to be swayed from the pricier options, though, with one reviewer writing: “I bought this leave in as an alternative to a higher priced product leave in mask. I find the consistency a bit too thick for my hair and it ends up pulling strands out. The scent is ok, not overpowering, and it does leave my hair somewhat smooth and shiny, but not anywhere near in comparison to the other higher brand product. I can’t really see or tell if it’s had any other benefits to my hair. I wouldn’t buy again.”
Others loved it, however, adding: “Great product I can see the difference after a couple of uses, my husband commented on how healthy my hair looked. Highly recommend!”
