Like all new products and services in the hair and make up industry I like to wait and see whether new fads stand the test of time. When I first heard of Olaplex and how it was this miracle product that helped Kim K get from jet black to ice white blonde, I was dubious to say the least, thinking it was a here today gone tomorrow product I didnt think much of it. As time has gone on however and hearing more and more reviews about this wonder product I decided to learn more about the now 8 steps, when broken down on a scientific level I feel it makes sense and having used it and seen the results I am now absolutely hooked. 

So What Is Olaplex and How Does It Work?!

Olaplex is a bond multiplier with a patented active ingredient Bis-Aminopropyl - Diglycol Dimaleate. It works on a molecular level to seek out broken bonds that are caused by mechanical, chemical or thermal damage. Olaplex can be used on compromised hair and used in hair colour, mainly in pre-lightener to help protect the hair whilst lifting. 

There are now 8 different products in the range which they call No.s 1-8. Im going to break down what each No. does and what it can do for your locks…

Below is a microscope image of the hair shaft and cuticle before and after using Olaplex.

Will Olaplex Work On My Hair?!

If you colour your hair, use heat, or just want to work on the overall condition of your hair then the answer is yes! 

Im not going to lie Id say Olapex is more of a hair journey than a quick fix, its amazing but using it as a one off probably isn't going to make a huge difference, think of it like going to the gym once a year and expecting to be gorgeously toned, not going to happen.

However using the steps and making it your new routine is heavily advised for best results. Trust me its worth the investment. Having done so much scientific research and liasing with other professionals I can honestly say it works! 

What do the Olaplex No.s even mean?! 

So here we go, it seems baffling at first and took me a while and a lot of research to get my head around but when you know its so simple. 

Olaplex No.1 - Professional Use Only! This should be used by your stylist (obviously moi)! 

How To Use Olaplex…. 

A dabble in your hair colour - Your stylist would drop this into your mixed colour before applying, Id recommend this if you have highlights or full head bleach, you know who you are! This is where the magic starts, seeking out the disulphide bonds and begins the process of repairing and preventing damage in the hair. 

Alternatively it can be used as a stand alone treatment, added to warm water No.1 is applied to the hair in small sections then No.2 is applied directly on top. This is a pre shampoo treatment so is left then followed by No.4 and No.5 (Shampoo and Conditioner) for ultimate repair and nourish! 

Olaplex No.2 - Professional Use Only. As i mentioned above 1 and 2 go hand in hand, if No.1 is put in your colour it must then be put on after rinsing colour out but before shampooing. 

Olaplex No.3 - Here is your Take Home Treatment - as I said this is a journey so needs to be maintained in between stylist visits. Apply once a week to damp, unwashed hair, this is a pre shampoo treatment so Id recommend to dampen your hair, apply, then sleep in it, this way you can wash your hair in the morning knowing you've got the full capacity of its magic! 

Alternatively apply to damp hair and leave an hour then shampoo and condition as usual. 

This hair perfector replenishes the bonds in the hair resurrecting any damage and overall rebuilding the hair making it look and feel so much smoother. 

Olaplex No.4 - Shampoo - will repair and protect all hair types from any damage, leaving it good as new immediately after use. Boasting Olaplex’s patented technology, this vegan and sulphate-free formula relinks hair’s broken bonds while increasing moisture levels and enhancing its natural shine.

Olaplex No.5 - Conditioner - A highly-moisturizing and reparative conditioner for all hair types that leaves hair easier to manage, shinier and healthier with each use. Protects and repairs damaged hair, split ends, and frizz by re-linking broken bonds. It is color-safe and will strengthen and leave your hair stronger than ever. PH Balance: 4.0-5.0. Vegan Friendly. Olaplex does not test on animals, and does not contain animal derivatives. Paraben, sulphate, phosphate free.

Are you sold yet?! Im personally LOVING the fact that as a brand they are Vegan Friendly and dont test on our fur babies! They are also Paraben Free, Zero Formaldehyde (which is basically the worst ingredient) and DEA free which is a foaming agent often used in Shampoos, this explains the lack of lather in the shampoo! TOP TIP: If you find it doesnt lather up like most dont add more shampoo but sprinkle a tiny bit of water into your hair, this will activate it and make it go further!  

Olaplex No.6 - Leave in treatment - this beauty prevents frizz and flyaways for upto 72 hours! Strengthening and moisturising, the main job here is to keep the hair smooth for the perfect blowdry! Because it works so well this baby will cut down your blowdry time and make it easier for you to style..  

Olaplex No.7 - Bonding Oil - This is my personal fave, Im always harping on to my clients how the main thing i look for in products is them being light weight! They need to be seen and not felt! This super light oil gets to work without weighing you down. For ultimate results pair with No.6, combine the two together in your hands, apply and enjoy seeing your hair transformed with one application!

Olaplex No.0

Apply the No.0 to dry hair. Comb the product through to ensure saturation from root to tip.

1. Wait 10 minutes, then apply OLAPLEX No.3 Hair Perfector directly on top of No.0. Comb again to saturate thoroughly, then let the treatment sit for another ten minutes. This treatment is a minimum of 20 minutes, though, just like the No.3 on its own, more significant results occur when keeping it on longer!

2. Once completed, rinse, shampoo, and condition. I recommend the OLAPLEX No. 4 Shampoo and OLAPLEX No.5 Conditioner.

So I hope this has simplified and made it clearer what Olaplex actually does! If you have any questions, need any advice dont hesitate to contact me using the button below!