What is Olaplex and why do we love it so much?

My clients are probably bored of me singing the praises of Olaplex… but what actually is it?

Olaplex is a bond builder, or as I like to call it, insurance for your hair. It’s an additive predominantly used during a colour service that goes into the colour or bleach and prevents hair from being damaged by the colouring process. This means that we can push the boundaries of our colour services without compromising the integrity of the hair.

When your stylist adds Olaplex No.1 into your color, they are reducing the damage done in the coloring process. Olaplex No.2 is the next step of the in-salon process. I use this step as a fortifier for broken bonds after a colour service. This part of the Olaplex system will give your hair the TLC it needs to stay healthy and beautiful.

The Olaplex line is intended to work as a system, so I encourage my clients to utilise all of the at home products as well as the in-salon treatments.

Olaplex No. 3 is up next in the lineup. Similar to Olaplex No.2, No. 3 is a treatment to fortify broken bonds, but it is slightly less potent than No. 2. Olaplex No.3 should be used at least once a week, prior to washing your hair. Following that treatment, you will need to wash your hair with Olaplex No.4 and No. 5. This shampoo and conditioner system contains a patented chemistry to help revive your hair back to health.

Olaplex doesn't stop there! The line includes styling products that not only protect your hair, but leave you with a beautiful, frizz free finish. Olaplex No.6 is a leave-in styling cream that rebuilds bonds in the hair, conditions, and omits frizz for up to 72 hours. To use, you need only apply a penny size amount to damp hair and work the product through, then style as desired. Following that, Olaplex No.7 is a bond-building oil that adds intense shine and moisture, reduces frizz, and protects hair from heat damage up to 450 degrees. The entire Olaplex system can be used with any colour, and it benefits all hair types and textures!

I have been using Olaplex for years and have noticed a huge difference in my clients hair strength, shine and longevity of colour. Olaplex improves moisture retention which is incredibly important when having a colour service, especially when lightening or using bleach, as they usually dry the hair out. Colours look richer and last a lot longer which means you can potentially leave it a couple of extra weeks between colour appointments.

Olaplex isn’t just for those who have chemical services; it can also be used as a stand-alone treatment for those who don’t colour their hair. It helps to repair existing damage whilst protecting it from future thermal, mechanical and environmental harm. Olaplex is a great way to get your hair in the best condition possible, especially when you are trying to grow it.