If you’ve spent any time on hair-care TikTok recently, you’ve likely heard of the “Abbey Yung Method.” What started as one creator’s personal routine for managing heat-damaged and color-treated hair has snowballed into a viral phenomenon.
Abbey’s approach isn’t about following a rigid set of rules; it’s about understanding the science of hair health and selecting the right products to build a customizable regimen.
Here is the definitive breakdown of the pre-shampoo and washing steps that define the method.
Phase 1: Pre-Shampoo Treatments
The secret to the Abbey Yung Method starts before you even turn on the shower. This phase is designed to repair damage and prevent the tangling that leads to breakage.
Step 1: Bond Repair (The Foundation)
Abbey’s top recommendation for this step is A-Prey, though she suggests several alternatives like Redken, L’Oreal, or Garnier.
How to apply: Spray onto dry hair until fully saturated.
Timing: Wait at least 10 minutes before washing.
Pro Tip: Unlike many treatments, A-Prey can be left in indefinitely – you can even apply it the night before.
Step 2: Oil Treatment (The Barrier)
This step is a game-changer for those with “high-porosity” or bleach-damaged hair. It adds softness and makes the hair much more manageable during the wash.
The Selection: Abbey recommends the OGX Coconut Miracle Oil line.
The Routine: Apply at least 20 minutes before washing. If using with a bond repair spray, apply the oil over the damp treatment.
Important Note: Skip the oil treatment on days you plan to use an “in-shower” bond repair (like K18) to ensure the treatment can penetrate the hair shaft effectively.
Abbey advocates for double shampooing every wash. This ensures a thorough cleanse and allows you to “mix and match” benefits.
The Method: Use a clarifying shampoo for the first wash to remove buildup, followed by a “regular” moisturizing shampoo (like Dove Intensive Repair) to add softness.
Step 5: Medicated Treatments
If you suffer from flaking or itching, don’t ignore it. Abbey treats her scalp like skin, often “spot-treating” problem areas with Nizoral (Ketoconazole) or Head & Shoulders (Zinc Pyrithione).
Phase 3: Post-Shampoo Repair & Conditioning
Once the hair is clean, it’s time to put the strength and moisture back in.
Step 6: Targeted Bond Repair
If you didn’t do a pre-wash treatment, this is the time for intensive repair.
K18: Apply to towel-dried hair, wait 4 minutes, and do not rinse. Abbey uses this once every three weeks for maintenance.
Cream Treatments: Options like Redken Acidic Bonding Concentrate or L’Oreal Bond Repair should sit for 5–10 minutes before rinsing.
Confused about how to combine these? Abbey suggests these four primary “Wash Day” templates:
Final Summary
The Abbey Yung Method isn’t about buying every product on the shelf – it’s about consistency and customization. By prioritizing scalp health and protecting your ends with oils and bond builders, you can maintain long, strong hair even if you use heat or color.
Ready to start? Start with one bond repair treatment and one clarifying shampoo, then adjust based on how your scalp feels!
