Bargain vs Bougie: We Compare 2 Popular Masks & Treatments for Damaged Hair


millie millie

Guys, I've been hair-fluenced.

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

The best masks and treatments in question?

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, Philip Kingsley reviews.

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


Comparing 2 of Our Favourite Hair Treatments for Damaged Hair NZ.


1. Philip Kingsley Elasticizer.

Philip Kingsley Elasticizer 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.


2. 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 NZ 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 Top Deep Conditioning Treatments NZ.


A 5-in-1 tress treatment, packed with goodness, that truly caters to all hair types. This hydrating hair mask is full of natural ingredients that work to restore, repair, and perfect your hair. Containing beautiful Balinese Raw Virgin Coconut, Argan Oil, Shea Butter, and Fig Essence, this formula is both rich and nourishing. This heavenly scented hair mask is appropriate for all hair types, working to smooth and tame even the most difficult of tresses.This is our favourite hair treatment for those looking for a hair mask free from nasties such as parabens, sulfates, phthalates, and gluten. Plus, it is also vegan and cruelty-free! For best results, comb through towel-dried hair with the complementary detangling brush and leave in for just 5 to 10 minutes.

An amazing, deep conditioning hair mask that uses Argan Oil to restore and rebuild damaged hair. It revitalises and restructures brittle hair that’s been damaged by consistent colouring and heat-styling. This nourishing hair mask formula works to increase the elasticity of your hair and strengthen it from the inside out with the inclusion of Keratin, Argan Oil, and Shea Butter. With regular use of this great hair treatment for damaged hair will improve its internal structure. It's one of our favourite hair treatments for improving the health of your hair.

Conditioning Mask for Damaged Hair

A fortifying hair mask with hydrating properties that improves the softness and texture of damaged hair. is a deeply restorative hair mask that protects and fortifies hair that has undergone excessive bleaching and colouring. This hydrating hair mask contains Japanese Rice Extract, which is enriched with minerals, antioxidants, and vitamins B and E, which work to soothe and protect the hair. This intensive treatment uses Co-Emulsion Technology to improve dry, damaged hair without leaving it greasy or heavy. Extremely fine droplets penetrate the hair follicles to repair and replenish each strand. A stunning hair mask, works exceptionally well to soften and add shine.

Conditioning Mask for Damaged Hair

A rich hydrating mask that intensely moisturises for glossy and gorgeous hair. It deeply hydrates and restores vitality to even the dullest and driest hair. In just 5 to 7 minutes, this mask transforms lacklustre hair into gorgeous tresses that look healthy, luscious, and silky. With a light consistency, this mask doesn’t cling to strands or make your mane greasy and heavy. This hair masque is perfect for smoothing out hair that’s damaged, dehydrated, or frizzy. If you’re struggling to tame medium to thick hair types, it's infused with Argan Oil and other nourishing ingredients that work to improve your hair’s texture and manageability. This rich, creamy mask is a detangler’s dream!

Kérastase Genesis Masque Reconstitutant is an intensive restructuring mask that helps to reduce the risk of hair fall. Detangle, smooth and soften hair with quality conditioning agents. Ginger Root and Edelweiss Native Cells also work to replenish and strengthen the hair for incredibly smoothing results. Perfect for those experiencing heat and colour damage and is an excellent mask for those experiencing continual hair loss. It can be used 2-3 times a week and works well when paired with the rest of the Kérastase Genesis range for optimal results.

This intelligently designed, 2-in-1 treatment system that works to extend care for up to 3 washes and offers intense hydration. This is the best treatment for seriously damaged hair, using a targeted delivery system that provides nourishment at every level. The dual chamber includes 2 formulas that do more than just deeply condition: they also strengthen the hair up to 15%! Expect significant and noticeable repair with this dual-benefit mask, which does the most to give you healthy, hydrated locks. Plus, it works perfectly with other products in the Redken Extreme range, especially for those trying to prevent hair breakage and snapping.


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.

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