Olaplex for hair
Last reviewed: 07.06.2024
All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
"Olaplex is an innovative hair care system known for its ability to repair damaged hair at the molecular level. The Olaplex system is particularly popular among professionals in the beauty industry for its effectiveness in strengthening and repairing hair, especially after chemical treatments such as coloring or perms.
How does Olaplex work?
Olaplex works by restoring the disulfide bonds in hair that can be damaged by chemical treatments, heat exposure and mechanical damage. Olaplex's main active ingredient helps to repair these bonds, thereby returning hair to its natural strength and elasticity.
Composition of Olaplex
Olaplex has become a revolutionary product in the hair care industry due to its unique formula capable of repairing damaged hair. The main active ingredient in Olaplex products is bis-aminopropyl diglycol dimaleate. This is a unique compound designed to repair damaged disulfide bonds in the hair structure that can be broken as a result of chemical treatments, thermal styling and other mechanical stresses.
The main components of Olaplex:
- Bis-aminopropyl diglycol dimaleate: This is a key active ingredient that helps to repair broken disulfide bonds in hair.
- Water: Used as a solvent in the formula.
- Cetyl Alcohol: An emollient that softens hair and makes it more manageable.
- Glycerin: Attracts moisture to the hair, providing moisturization.
- Phenoxyethanol: A preservative used to prevent the development of microorganisms in the product.
Additional Ingredients:
- Hydrolyzed proteins: For example, soy or wheat proteins that strengthen and protect hair.
- Various oils and extracts: Some Olaplex products may contain nourishing oils and extracts for additional moisturization and nourishment.
- Conditioning agents: For example, Quaternium-91, which helps smooth hair and makes it easier to comb.
Safety and efficacy:
- Sulfate and Paraben Free: Olaplex products are free of sulfates, phthalates, parabens, aldehydes and are not tested on animals.
- Suitable for all hair types: Olaplex is effective for all hair types and textures, including color-treated, chemically treated, fine and coarse hair.
Olaplex products
- Olaplex No.1 Bond Multiplier - A professional product used in salons during chemical hair treatments to minimize damage.
- Olaplex No.2 Bond Perfector - Also used by professionals after chemical treatments to further strengthen hair.
- Olaplex No.3 Hair Perfector - A home care product that is used to maintain the results of treatments received in the salon.
- Olaplex No.4 and No.5 Bond Maintenance Shampoo and Conditioner - Shampoo and conditioner for daily use to keep hair strong and healthy.
- Olaplex No.6 Bond Smoother - A maintenance cream without rinsing that reduces frizz and strengthens hair.
- Olaplex No.7 Bonding Oil - A non-washable oil that provides thermal protection and enhances hair's shine.
Benefits of using Olaplex
- Repairing damaged hair: Olaplex effectively repairs structural damage to hair.
- Hair Strengthening: Olaplex products help strengthen hair, making it less prone to breakage and damage.
- Suitable for all hair types: Olaplex is suitable for all hair types and textures.
- Protection during chemical treatments: Using Olaplex during coloring or perms can significantly reduce the extent of hair damage.
Important Moments
- Professional Use: The best results are usually achieved when Olaplex is used by professional hairdressers.
- Supportive care: Regular use of Olaplex home products is recommended to maintain and enhance the effect.
- Price: Olaplex products may be more expensive than other hair care products, but their effectiveness justifies the cost.
Use in salons and at home:
Olaplex is used in both professional salons and for home care. Professional products such as Olaplex No.1 and No.2 are used in salons to protect hair during chemical treatments, while products designed for home use (such as Olaplex No.3, No.4, No.5 and others) help maintain and enhance the effects of treatments at home.
How do I apply Olaplex?
The application of Olaplex products depends on which product number you are using. Here are general application guidelines for the most popular Olaplex products:
Olaplex No.1 Bond Multiplier
- Professional use: Olaplex No.1 is typically used in the salon during chemical hair treatments such as coloring or bleaching.
- Mixing with dye: Added directly to the coloring or bleaching mixture to protect the hair during the treatment.
Olaplex No.2 Bond Perfector
- After chemical treatment: After rinsing out the dye and rinsing the hair with Olaplex No.1, apply Olaplex No.2 to damp hair.
- Shake: Leave on hair for about 20 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
Olaplex No.3 Hair Perfector
- Home use: Olaplex No.3 is designed for regular use at home to maintain and enhance the effects of professional treatments.
- Application: Apply to towel-dried hair before shampooing.
- Shake: Leave on hair for at least 10 minutes, for damaged hair you can leave longer.
- Rinse: Then rinse hair thoroughly and use shampoo and conditioner.
Olaplex No.4 and No.5 Bond Maintenance Shampoo and Conditioner
- Regular use: Use as a regular shampoo and conditioner.
- Scalp massage: Apply shampoo to damp hair, massage and rinse well.
- Conditioner application: After shampooing, apply conditioner, leave on for a few minutes, then rinse off.
Olaplex No.6 Bond Smoother and No.7 Bonding Oil.
- After washing: Apply to wet or dry hair after washing.
- Quantity: A small amount is sufficient.
- Distribution: Distribute evenly throughout the entire length and at the ends of the hair.
General Recommendations
- Regularity: Olaplex No.3, No.4, No.5, No.6 and No.7 are designed for regular use depending on the needs of your hair.
- For all hair types: Products are suitable for all hair types including damaged, color-treated, fine and coarse hair.
- Safety: Olaplex products are safe and effective, they contain no sulfates, phthalates, parabens and are not tested on animals.
Remember that for best results, it is important to follow instructions and use products regularly, especially if your hair has been exposed to significant chemical or heat damage.