Damage Shield pH Protective Shampoo

The Damage Shield pH Protective Shampoo by K18 is a pH-optimised, biomimetic cleanser powered by the brand's patented K18PEPTIDE™, engineered to deliver a thorough cleanse while actively shielding the hair fibre from damage with every wash.

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A pH-balanced protective shampoo with patented K18PEPTIDE™ technology

Developed after over a decade of bioengineering research, this shampoo reframes the act of washing as an opportunity for active hair protection.

Its pH-optimised formula is calibrated to mirror hair's natural pH, minimising excess cuticle swelling during washing — the root cause of frizz, colour fade, dullness and tangling.

Plant-derived surfactants deliver a powerful yet gentle cleanse, removing dirt and buildup without stripping moisture or disrupting the scalp's natural balance. The formula is certified microbiome-friendly, making it safe for daily use across all hair types and textures.

Its hero active, the K18PEPTIDE™, gets to work from the very first rinse, limiting protein loss induced by washing to keep hair strong, resilient and visibly healthier over time.

The hair benefits of K18 pH-protective cleansing shampoo

• Cuticle protection from the first wash: the optimised pH keeps the hair cuticle smooth and closed during cleansing, reducing mechanical stress and preserving the integrity of the hair fibre.
• Colour preservation: a sealed cuticle locks in pigment and enhances light reflection for longer-lasting, more vibrant colour results.
• Frizz control and enhanced shine: a smooth, uniform cuticle surface translates to visibly sleeker, more luminous hair with every wash.
• Strengthened hair fibre: protein loss during washing is minimised, keeping hair resilient, flexible and healthy in the long run.
• Scalp microbiome protection: a certified microbiome-friendly formula that cleanses effectively without disrupting the scalp's natural bacterial balance.
• Universal compatibility: suitable for all hair types and textures — straight, wavy, curly, coily — including colour-treated and chemically processed hair.

Clinically proven results from the K18 Damage Shield pH Protective Shampoo*

• 91% of participants said their hair looked healthier.
• 91% noticed smoother, softer hair to the touch.
• 91% reported that their hair did not feel weighed down.

Key ingredients

• K18PEPTIDE™ – a patented bioactive peptide born from over ten years of biomimetic research, which works during washing to limit protein loss and maintain the strength, elasticity and resilience of the hair fibre
• Plant-derived surfactants – gentle, biodegradable cleansing agents that effectively lift impurities and excess sebum without compromising the hair's moisture balance or weakening the fibre
• Panthenol – pro-vitamin B5 that deeply hydrates, reinforces hair resilience and improves softness and shine from the inside out
• Glycerin – a humectant that draws moisture into the hair shaft, keeping strands supple, smooth and hydrated
• Citric acid – a naturally derived pH regulator that maintains the formula's ideal acidic balance, supporting cuticle closure and overall hair protection

A protective cleansing shampoo suitable for all hair types and textures, including colour-treated, damaged and chemically processed hair.

*Consumer test conducted with 35 subjects after 21 days of consistent use.

How to use the K18 Damage Shield pH Protective Shampoo

Massage into wet hair, focusing on the scalp. Rinse thoroughly. Repeat if needed. Safe for use at every wash.

For best results, follow with the K18 Leave-In Molecular Repair Hair Mask to maximise repair and strengthen the hair fibre.

Frequent use