Brand Focus / Hair and Scalp

The Beginner's Guide To OLAPLEX

Olaplex Hair Care

OLAPLEX stands out as a trending name in hair care, captivating everyone's attention. Chances are, you're familiar with the wildly popular OLAPLEX No.3 Hair Perfector, a sensation since its 2014 debut. But what about the rest of the OLAPLEX line, and what's the significance of the numbers? Let's dive into the details.

olaplex

The genius of OLAPLEX lies in its universal design, suitable for all hair types, which has been a key factor in its widespread popularity. OLAPLEX is your go-to whether you're aiming to revive damaged, brittle hair into silky smoothness or looking to preserve your hair's natural health. Its effectiveness is rooted in a patented bond-building technology, scientifically engineered to restore hair health.

OLAPLEX's innovative approach involves the repair of broken hair bonds - the very foundation of hair structure - from the inside out. This is achieved through a unique patented ingredient, bis-aminopropyl diglycol dimaleate. Once your hair bonds are fully restored, the result is vibrant, healthy hair with enduring quality.

The OLAPLEX journey begins with No.1 and No.2, though these are exclusive to hair professionals and not available for retail. They are integral to salon services or specific treatments during a professional hair appointment. The OLAPLEX range, including No.0, No.3 through to No.7, No.8, and the latest addition, No.9, are all formulated for home use, working synergistically to enhance and maintain hair health.

olaplex 0

OLAPLEX No.0 Intensive Bond Building Hair Treatment

  • As the initial step in your at-home hair care regimen, OLAPLEX No.0 is a relatively new addition to the OLAPLEX family. This treatment, inspired by professional hair care methods, is designed to be the first phase of a two-part system. Its primary function is to prepare your hair, optimizing the absorption of OLAPLEX No.3 Hair Perfector, which follows as the second step.
  • For best results, apply it to damp hair, and leave it on for 10 minutes before using No.3. Use it weekly or more frequently for severely damaged hair.
no.3

OLAPLEX No.3 Hair Perfector

  • At the heart of OLAPLEX's acclaim is the No.3 Hair Perfector, a bestseller and the cornerstone product of the brand. This unique formula is neither a conditioner nor a mask but an at-home treatment that significantly reduces breakage, enhances shine, strengthens hair, and repairs bonds. It's especially beneficial for hair that has suffered from chemical, thermal, or other types of damage.
  • To use, apply it to slightly damp, unwashed hair, leave it on for a minimum of 20 minutes or overnight for enhanced results, and then rinse. For those new to OLAPLEX, starting with No.3 is highly recommended.
n0.4

OLAPLEX No.4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo

  • The first shampoo in the OLAPLEX line, No.4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo, is designed to protect and repair hair from daily wear and tear, including damage, split ends, and frizz. Infused with the signature OLAPLEX technology, it not only strengthens hair but also adds moisture and thoroughly cleanses from the scalp to the ends.
  • Replace your usual shampoo with this product. Focus on the roots during each wash and pair it with OLAPLEX No.5 Bond Maintenance Conditioner for optimal results. Its concentrated formula means a little goes a long way.
OLAPLEX No.4C Bond Maintenance Clarifying Shampoo

OLAPLEX No.4C Bond Maintenance Clarifying Shampoo

  • Say hello to the latest addition to the OLAPLEX family: No.4C! This clarifying shampoo is a game-changer, especially for those with oilier hair. It's expertly designed to whisk away excess oil, product build-up, and everyday impurities. Not just that, it's a champion against hard water minerals, chlorine, and environmental pollutants, all while keeping your hair irresistibly soft and luminously shiny.
  • Featuring OLAPLEX's signature Bond-Building Technologyâ„¢, No.4C maintains those vital hair bonds OLAPLEX is renowned for. If you're navigating oily hair, switch out No.4 with No.4C, or better yet, pair them for a dynamic double cleanse that delivers unparalleled results.
olaplex blond shampoo

OLAPLEX No.4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo

  • Blondes, greys, and lightened locks, rejoice! OLAPLEX No.4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo is here to transform your hair care routine. This specialized shampoo is a blonde's savior, skillfully neutralizing those pesky yellow and brassy tones while simultaneously brightening and softening your hair. It's like having a mini salon session in the comfort of your shower.
  • The sulfate-free, highly potent formula offers customizable toning. The longer you leave it on, the brighter your results. So, whether you're flaunting natural blonde hues, light highlights, a full head of blonde, or embracing the grey, OLAPLEX No.4P will keep your color vibrant and salon-fresh.
No.5

OLAPLEX No.5 Bond Maintenance Conditioner

  • Ideally paired with OLAPLEX No.4, No.5 stands as the exclusive conditioner in the OLAPLEX lineup. This rich, nourishing formula is expertly crafted to rejuvenate, repair, and moisturize all hair types, ensuring hair remains light and voluminous. It leaves hair exceptionally manageable and lustrously shiny, all while being safe for colored hair and aiding in preserving vibrant color quality. Use it right after No.4, applying from the mid-lengths to the ends. For better results, a cold water rinse post-application can help minimize frizz and promote hair growth.
No.6

OLAPLEX No.6 Bond Smoother

  • Say goodbye to frizz and welcome silky, glossy hair that lasts up to 72 hours. OLAPLEX No.6, a potent leave-in conditioner, effectively smooths out flyaways and frizz. Enriched with Vitamin E and Coconut Oil, it offers protection against heat damage and ensures maximum hydration. Suitable for a range of hair types, including afro, fine, colored, coiled, and chemically treated hair, this silky formula is a versatile solution. It also cuts down blow-drying time. Apply it from the mid-lengths to the ends on either damp or dry hair and comb through for even distribution.
No.7

OLAPLEX No.7 Bonding Oil

  • This intensively concentrated, featherlight, restorative styling oil significantly enhances shine, softness, and strength across all hair types and textures. OLAPLEX No.7 not only provides heat protection up to 450°F/230°C but also offers UVA/UVB protection, making it an ideal choice for the summer.
  • For shoulder-length hair, a few drops suffice, while longer hair may require a more generous application. It can be used on either dry or damp hair. For amplified benefits, consider blending it with OLAPLEX No.6.
No.8

OLAPLEX No.8 Bond Intense Moisture Mask

  • Since its launch in early 2021, OLAPLEX No.8 Bond Intense Moisture Mask has been making waves in the hair care world. This powerhouse at-home treatment mask offers a quadruple threat of hair benefits: doubling shine, quadrupling moisture, multiplying smoothness by six, and amplifying body by an impressive 94%. And the best part? These fabulous results linger through several washes.
  • Application is a breeze: just one pump for short hair, two for medium, and three for longer or thicker tresses. Smooth it onto clean, damp hair from the mid-lengths to ends and let it work its magic for at least 10 minutes.
olaplex 9

OLAPLEX No.9 Bond Protector Nourishing Hair Serum

  • No.9 Bond Protector Nourishing Hair Serum is the newest member of the OLAPLEX family. This innovative, silicone-free serum is a fortress against hair damage. Enriched with antioxidants, it elevates hair manageability, imparts a satin shine, supports styling longevity, and shields against pollution and heat up to 450°F/232°C. The key ingredient? Red Algae Extract, a powerhouse that combats free radicals, repairs damage, and deeply nourishes your hair.
  • For the best results, apply No.9 after washing your hair with OLAPLEX No.0, No.3, No.4, No.4P, No.5, or No.8, and before styling with No.6 & No.7.

Your ultimate OLAPLEX hair care guide

Exploring the world of OLAPLEX can be exciting, and we're here to make your journey effortless. If you have any questions or need a nudge in the right direction, don't hesitate to reach out. The OLAPLEX range, including the above-mentioned marvels, is ready for you at Dermacare Direct.

For personalized advice and tips on making the most of your OLAPLEX experience, connect with us through live chat, email at advice@dermacaredirect.co.uk, or give us a call at 0116 251 4848 to chat with one of our friendly experts. Your dream hair awaits!

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Andrea Patel Dermatology Nurse Practitioner & Director Author
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