Bargain vs Bougie: We Compare 3 Popular Masks & Treatments for Damaged Hair

Guys, I've been hair-fluenced.

After hearing everyone in the AB office and seeing people talking about these game-changing hair masks on Instagram, I decided to see what all the fuss is about.

The best masks and treatments in question?

K18, Philip Kingsley Elasticizer and Davroe Rebuilder Protein Hair Reconstructor.

As someone with fine, thinner hair, hydrating masks and treatments can weigh my hair down and make it look greasy.

So, I'll share my first impressions of these popular products, along with my final Davroe, Elasticizer and K18 reviews.

You can watch my YouTube video below, or keep scrolling for all the details.

Best Hair Masks for Damaged Hair Australia.

1. K18 Leave-In Molecular Repair Mask.

What is it?

• K18 Leave-In Molecular Repair Mask 50ml is a reparative style treatment you leave in, so no need to wash out.

• It promises to reverse chemical and physical damage in the hair.

• The formula has years of new patented bioactive peptide technology behind it, and it's unlike any other product on the market.

• At $94.50 for a 50ml tube, it's bougie!

My K18 review...

My bank account was very sad about me trying this product, but it's incredible.

It delivers salon technology, at home. And I couldn't believe it worked in just four minutes. So great if you're time poor.

The instructions are quite specific so you need to follow them. I used half a pump after shampooing (you don't need much), left in for 4 minutes, then followed with my usual heat protectant before drying.

After I used the product as directed, I saw a huge difference in my hair.

I'm not bullsh*tting you, it had more shine and felt better. It didn't immediately feel silky and smooth, but by following the directions of the product, my ends weren't as wispy, and I didn't have as much hair breakage and snapping.

If you're on a budget, you don't need to splurge on K18 as there are other great bargain products, but K18 is very special if you have the means.

2. Philip Kingsley Elasticizer.

What is it?

• Philip Kingsley Elasticizer is the world's first and the original pre-shampoo treatment (yep, you use this before shampoo).

• Elasticizer protects and strengthens hair, prevents breakage, adds shine... basically, what can't it do?

• Contains hydrolysed elastin protein for strength, castor oil and glycerin for hydration, and olive oil for shine.

• Originally created for Hollywood actress Audrey Hepburn in the 70s, one of these is sold every two minutes.

• $73 for one tub, but it will last you a while!

My Philip Kingsley Elasticizer review...

This is the brand's hero, best-selling product, so I had to try it for myself.

After doing some research, I realised this is not just a hair mask - it's a pre-shampoo hair treatment.

It smells incredible - the brand can do no wrong with their scents!

You apply to damp hair before shampooing, then pop on the little hair cap it comes with and leave in for 10-20 minutes before shampooing and conditioning.

I found the product a bit heavy on my fine hair, so I shampooed three times afterwards to ensure I removed all the mask (I think I applied too much, you only need a s mall amount).

After, you'll have gorgeous, shiny hair that's hydrated and strengthened.

3. Davroe Rebuilder Protein Hair Reconstructor.

What is it?

• Davroe Rebuilder Protein Hair Reconstructor 200ml is another pre-shampoo hair treatment from an Australian-made brand that's also sulphate and paraben-free.

• The weekly hair treatment aims to restore and rebuild damaged hair, bringing back body, shine and strength.

• With regular use, you can expect reduced breakage, increased elasticity, and an overall happier head of hair.

• At under $30 for 200ml, it's a bargain!

My Davroe Rebuilder Protein Hair Reconstructor review...

I loved that this mask isn't a cream texture - the gel formula applies through the hair really nicely.

Also has a divine Australian native scent, and comes in a pump tub which is very easy to use in the shower.

Rather than hydration, this product focusses on rebuilding damaged hair using protein. It's not heavy on the hair, which is great for fine hair. If you have thicker or textured hair, it may not be nourishing enough for you.

Best bit? It's $28.95!

Looking for more mask options for colour-damaged, bleached or heat-styled hair?

While some damage is irreversible, the good news is most hair can be treated with a protein and/or deep-conditioning hair mask (particularly if you seek to promote hair growth and repair split ends).

And there are so many options to suit every budget, woohoo!

These intensive treatments really save the day by penetrating the hair follicles with proteins, vitamins, and oils, which work to hydrate and restructure your hair.

So, keep scrolling to see our selection of masks that strengthen your hair, minimise breakage, and give your hair a glossy, healthy sheen.

This inclusive list of our absolute favourite hair treatments Australia contains a wide range of hair masques that will work to reverse damage, minimise breakage and strengthen your hair.

I also break down some of my favourite hair masks for damaged hair in the YouTube video below...

Our Favourite Hair Treatments for Damaged Hair Australia.

This article has been updated on 22/09 to replace discontinued products with our recent product recommendations. Amelia from our Customer Service team has helped to bring you our most recommended products and up-to-date information.

Looking for more damaged hair product recommendations? Check out these articles below:

• The 11 Best Shampoos For Damaged Hair

• What is Olaplex and How Do I Use It?

• The Best Apotecari Products for Your Hair