Spoiler alert—Olaplex No. 3 saved my hair!
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I love my hair—I just don’t always treat it the best. Between all my high-heat styling tools and tight Bella Hadid updos, it’s been through a lot. My ends have definitely seen better days, but I’m not planning a trip to the salon anytime soon. I’ve heard great things from my hairstylist about the Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector, so I decided to give my hair some much-needed TLC right from home.
I’m a big fan of scalp massagers, the Mielle Rosemary oil and other home remedies to make my mane healthy and soft. My only reservation with starting the Olaplex journey were some rumors I’d heard about harmful ingredients and how some users experienced hair loss. However, the brand is loved by stylists and professionals alike, so I decided to give it a shot.
What is Olaplex No. 3?
Olaplex is a cult-favorite professional haircare system. It has a numbered product line, from zero to nine, for every step in your hair care routine. Ranging from the No. 0 bonding treatment to the No. 9 nourishing hair serum, the brand carries a product for all hair types. Olaplex No. 3 is the hair perfector, a pre-shampoo hair treatment that repairs and protects against damage.
Olaplex No. 3 isn’t a conditioner. It’s not even a hair mask. It’s actually a bond builder that repairs hair on a molecular level. Using patented technology, the cream “rebuilds broken disulfide bonds,” or links between proteins. Who knew good hair days could be so scientific?
According to the instructions, the hair perfector should be used before shampooing and not in place of a conditioner. Dry and damaged hair would benefit from two to three uses per week, otherwise, a once-a-week treatment should suffice. Once those bond babies are restored, your dry, brittle hair will take its healthiest form once again.
Product features
Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector comes in a 3.3 fluid ounce bottle. It barely makes the TSA liquid limits, so you should be able to pack the cream in your carry-on or toiletry bag without issue.
The product’s formula is vegan and cruelty-free. There’s also no gluten, nuts, parabens, phthalates or phosphates. It feels very much like a normal conditioner with its opaque, creamy white consistency. If used generously, the 3.3-ounce bottle should last up to ten uses.
How we tested it
Andrea Carrillo/RD.com
My hair is thick and typically lasts four to six days between washes. Since chopping my waist-long tresses into a bob a few months ago, I haven’t let go of my styling tools. Blow drying, straightening and curling has taken a toll on my head, adding a brittle texture to my ends. Safe to say I was eager to test the Olaplex hair perfector.
The product’s instructions state it should be generously applied to damp hair from roots to ends. Once the hair is thoroughly saturated, leave it on for at least 10 minutes. Rinse it well and follow up with shampoo and conditioner (Olaplex or otherwise). Easy enough, right?
During my first three tests, spread over about two weeks, I followed the bottle’s instructions and applied the cream on my wet hair in the shower. I clipped it up for the recommended 10 minutes and, after rinsing, used a non-Olaplex shampoo and conditioner. Only after drying and styling did I feel the hair perfector’s effects, but the results may have been different if I had bleach-damaged hair as opposed to heat-damaged hair.
My goal for the product wasn’t to boost hydration, because this isn’t a conditioning treatment. Instead, after three uses, I was pleased to find that my hair did feel stronger and fuller. My ends felt less brittle, like some years of damage had been reversed.
Pros
- Helps hair feel thicker and stronger
- Reverses damage from styling tools and rough treatment
- Salon-quality hair can be achieved right from your shower
- Olaplex is trusted by thousands of professional hair stylists
Cons
- Olaplex products are pricier than drugstore items
- A 3.3-ounce bottle doesn’t last very long
FAQ
Is Olaplex No. 3 used on wet or dry hair?
Olaplex No. 3 should be used on damp hair before shampooing. Saturate your hair from roots to ends, leave for 10 minutes and rinse. Don’t leave it on as a long-term mask.
Can you use Olaplex No. 3 every day?
The brand recommends using the No. 3 Hair Perfector two to three times a week if you have especially damaged hair. For minimally damaged hair, use the product once a week.
What other reviewers/experts had to say
Ready to give your hair some love but unsure of the Olaplex price tag? Just read these reviews on why others love their No. 3 Hair Perfector and you’ll be ready to splurge. After all, self-care is an investment.
“Olaplex has been one of the best products I have ever used,” writes Steve Wynder, expert hair stylist at Steve Wynder Hair & Beauty Salon, on his blog. “There are many copycat products on the market, but I have found nothing to give me the results I’m getting from Olaplex.”
Amazon verified purchaser Eliza Turner ordered the Olaplex Hair Perfector after severely damaging her hair through bleaching to the point of extreme breakage. “I have used this three times so far and cannot believe the results,” she writes. “My hair is nowhere near 100% healthy, but the areas that felt gummy now either do not feel gummy at all, or are about 75% improved. I am pretty sure that if I did not purchase this, I would be sporting a pixie cut right now. Overall, I am extremely happy with this purchase.”
After enduring years of heat damage, environmental damage and box dyes, Amazon reviewer Alyssa Pall and her daughter gave the Hair Perfector a try. “I was so impressed and it felt amazing!” she raves. “You only need a little and it goes a long way. I’m 100% in love with Olaplex!”
Final verdict
I haven’t color-treated my hair since October, but I’m an avid heating tool connoisseur. I sleep with a satin pillowcase and use heat protectants—most of the time. Still, Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector seemed to bring my hair back to life in just a few uses. It’s pricier than other drugstore hair products, but it’s well worth the splurge.
Also, keep in mind that it takes some time to see results and you might not even see an obvious difference, but that’s not a bad thing. Hair damage doesn’t occur in one day (although bleach blondes may beg to differ), so repairing hair shouldn’t, either. Rebuilding hair on a molecular level requires patience and consistency. I’m glad I gave Olaplex a shot and I’m already considering other products in its hair care line.
Where to buy No. 3 Hair Perfector
via merchant
Ready to start your Olaplex journey? Shop Olaplex No. 3 on the brand’s website for $30. It’s also available at Sephora and Ulta, as well as Amazon. Don’t wait for a trip to the salon—self-care starts here.
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FAQs
Why is there a lawsuit against Olaplex? ›
Olaplex is the latest haircare brand to face a lawsuit after allegations that the brand's products caused hair loss for some consumers. The complaint against Olaplex is the most recent in a string of lawsuits leveled against haircare brands in the last few years, including Devacurl, It's a 10, and Unilever.
Is Olaplex really worth the money? ›The verdict
It is truly healthier—and not just in a superficial way. It feels like the entire Olaplex system has removed dozens of bleaching appointments' worth of damage and has left me with the best hair I've had since I can remember.
OLAPLEX restores damaged and compromised hair by repairing from the inside out with our patented single ingredient, Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate. Once all the hair bonds are intact and in alignment, you have healthy, beautiful, shiny, touchable hair.
How often to use Olaplex? ›OLAPLEX is a bond builder, not a conditioning treatment or protein treatment, allowing extensive use, the minimum is once weekly. Start with two treatments a week then go from there. Listen to your hair and what it is showing you it needs.
Can I put Olaplex 3 on dirty hair? ›3 treatment? Generally, no, you do not need to shampoo before using N°. 3. However, if you have a lot of product on your hair, it is always a good idea to cleanse the hair before your treatment.
Does Olaplex really repair hair? ›Olaplex works on repairing your hair, not increasing its density. Olaplex realigns broken disulfide bonds, which helps strengthen the hair after chemical services. This is especially helpful for those who have chemically processed their hair and are dealing with fragile, thin strands.
Is Olaplex getting discontinued? ›They're given enough time to formulate things and products that contain the banned ingredient have to be pulled off the shelf." In short, Olaplex No. 3 is not being discontinued. The ingredient no longer features butylphenyl methylpropional in the label on the brand's website, nor on Sephora.
What are the cons of Olaplex? ›| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Reverses hair damage | Takes longer to see results |
| Reduces frizz | Requires more than one product to see effective results |
| Adds shine and smoothness to hair | Can cause irritation to scalp |
| Restores and strengthens hair | Takes more time to use in a single use |
WHY OLAPLEX IS PERFECT FOR AGEING HAIR & HOW TO USE OPLAPEX ON FULL GREY HAIR OR POST CHEMOTHERAPY & RADIATION TREATMENTS TO HELP REBUILD & STRENGTHEN THE HAIR. Hair changes as well as we age. It thins out, looses elasticity, body, bounce & thins out. The hair requires better balances of moisture & especially protein.
Which celebrities use Olaplex? ›Stars like Kim Kardashian and Billie Eilish have long treated their talked-about tresses with Olaplex. And now, thanks to the label's latest launch — Olaplex No. 4D Clean Volume Detox Dry Shampoo ($30) — famous folks might need to make room in their beauty bags.
What does Olaplex smell like? ›
The Scent: Fresh
grapefruit-y about the Olaplex fragrance. My hair was left smelling clean and light in a subtle way—which is what I want from my shampoo.
How long does an OLAPLEX treatment last? It depends on your hair condition and how damaged it is. It is reported that OLAPLEX treatments last about four weeks for moderately damaged hair and up to six weeks for slightly damaged hair.
How quickly does Olaplex work? ›Normally you will see a difference straight away however some people find that after 2 treatments they get best results. Always remember less is more with Olaplex as too much will over strengthen your hair and may make it feel hard.
Why does my hair feel like straw after Olaplex? ›A lot of people will use bond treatments and say their hair feels worse - dry and strawy. That's basically the bond building doing its job. The other mistake you might be making is using too much of the product, because new products are exciting and we get excited about using them. So, remember to use a small amount!
Can I leave Olaplex in my hair all day? ›If you're short on time you will be able see the results of Olaplex in as little as 10 minutes. However, On their Instagram, Olaplex has said you can leave the treatment on overnight. Just make sure your hair doesn't come into contact with your face or eyes!
How long does a bottle of Olaplex 3 last? ›FUN FACT: Did you know each liter contains approximately 100 uses per bottle when using 10 mL per application. On average, a liter will last for 2-3 months, depending on the frequency of use! Visit your local #OLAPLEX certified stylist to purchase!
Can I leave Olaplex 3 on my hair all night? ›You can leave the OLAPLEX N. °0 and OLAPLEX N. °3 in longer! However, the efficacy will diminish past 30-45 minutes or when the hair is dry.
Which Olaplex for thinning hair? ›OLAPLEX is not formulated to treat thinning hair, hair loss, or promote new growth. However, it will keep the hair you have healthy, strong & prevent breakage. Why 2: Our kits are calculated to last about 6-8 weeks. We recommend double of the products you will be going through faster based on your hair needs.
What happens if you put Olaplex 3 on dry hair? ›If build-up is present such as oils, silicones, or too much product, give the hair a light shampoo and towel dry thoroughly and proceed with applying the No. 3. You can use it on dry hair as well, it will just take a little more product in order to fully saturate the hair.
Why is my hair falling out after using Olaplex? ›The group also claimed that Olaplex's products have allergens and irritants in them, which the group believes caused hair loss, allergic reactions, open sores, bald spots, and hair that is dry, brittle, frizzy, and dull.
Why can't you put Olaplex in a spray bottle? ›
Olaplex is entirely non toxic, however, we do not recommend using a spray bottle. As with any product, it can irritate the lungs. In addition, using a non spraying applicator bottle will ensure thorough saturation.
Is Olaplex No 3 being taken off the market? ›It is not an active or functional ingredient. While this phase out is limited to the EU, out of an abundance of caution, Olaplex proactively removed lillial from our No. 3 Hair Perfector globally. Since January 2022, Olaplex no longer sold products using Lillial in the UK or EU."
Why Olaplex is better than other brands? ›Unlike other treatments which just add moisture and shine to the outer layers of the hair, Olaplex's brand-specific technology (the star ingredient is bis-aminopropyl diglycol dimaleate) works on a molecular level, seeking out the broken bonds within your hair (caused by chemical, heat and mechanical damage).
Is K18 better than Olaplex? ›K18 takes less time, and Olaplex takes more! But they both help in repairing your hair. My final verdict is that if your hair has been subjected to years and years of heat, colour and styling, and if you have a fast-paced lifestyle, K18 is the faster, easier process with promised results.
Does Olaplex shampoo make a difference? ›I noticed a difference in my hair when doing this Olaplex shampoo big time. Frizzier and more dry for sure. The Olaplex shampoo and conditioner really work as a team to get your hair healthy, shiny, soft, and manageable. I recommend using them both together to get the full benefits!
What Olaplex treatment do I need? ›You should use the two-part system, of Olaplex No. 0 Intensive Bond Building Treatment and Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector on average once or twice a week. If your hair is severely damaged, we recommend using it three times a week.
How do you fix old lady hair? ›- Fix Your Diet. Healthy hair starts with a healthy diet! ...
- Get Regular Trims. Getting your hair trimmed every 6-8 weeks can help promote healthy hair growth and tame frizzy ends. ...
- Be Gentle. ...
- Use Light Hold Products. ...
- Remove Residue. ...
- Wash Less. ...
- Brush With Caution. ...
- Use A T-Shirt Wrap.
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|---|---|
| Best Non-GMO: Andalou Naturals Argan Stem Cell Shampoo | Price on Amazon |
| Best Non-Greasy: Kerastase Densifique Bain Densite Bodifying Shampoo | Price on Amazon |
| Best Lightweight: Nexxus Youth Renewal Shampoo | Price on Amazon |
Olaplex No.
“I reach for this No. 3 Hair Perfector every couple of weeks or once a month to help repair any damage.”
Apparently Olaplex No 3 Hair Perfector is one of the hair products JLo has on her rider. It's the bomb for reviving dry or over-processed hair. Use once a week for shiny, stronger hair.
What is the most popular Olaplex number? ›
By now, many of us own at least one of the best Olaplex products for hair-related damage control. Chances are you've already tried out the brand's biggest claim to fame, the No. 3 Hair Repair Perfector. This fan-favorite hair product is known for restorative properties that repair damaged or broken bonds.
Do I shampoo twice with Olaplex? ›Rinse. Repeat (lil hairdresser rule always shampoo twice, condition once)
Is there such thing as fake Olaplex? ›Ways to tell it is genuine OLAPLEX
All our consumer products contain QR codes on the bottom back side. If a QR code is missing, scratched off or tampered with in any way, do not buy it as the product could be fake, expired or diluted.
If you notice breakage, split ends, and overall fried, limp hair — you need OLAPLEX. Even if you don't chemically treat your hair or style it, the damage comes from environmental elements and mechanical styling like sleeping on a pillow or using a hair tie.
Which Olaplex do hairdressers use? ›The second step involves the use of Olaplex No. 2 Bond Perfector, and is used solely by hair salon professionals. It is designed to track and target any remaining broken bonds.
Can too much Olaplex damage hair? ›Are there risks with using Olaplex “too often”? Apparently no. Olaplex products cannot damage your hair, no matter how often you use it. Some users have reported that when they use it for long periods, the amount of time it requires to “take effect” will climb and climb.
Is Olaplex good for fine thin hair? ›What hair types is Olaplex suited to? Whether your hair is fine or curly, oily or suffers a halo of frizz, Olaplex works well on all hair types. Despite being originally designed to repair and rebuild the broken bonds post-colouring, it also works well on hair that hasn't been dyed.
Does Olaplex thicken hair? ›OLAPLEX is not formulated to treat thinning hair, hair loss, or promote new growth. However, it will keep the hair you have healthy, strong & prevent breakage.
Does Olaplex improve hair texture? ›OLAPLEX can help your hair, no matter your hair texture; because every hair type can benefit from being healthier.
Does Olaplex make hair bouncy? ›Simply put, Olaplex® is a bonding and moisturizing treatment that's amazing for your hair. It's all about repairing your hair and infusing intense hydration to get silky smooth, bouncy hair, especially if your hair has lost its healthy-looking shine after lots of lightening processes.
Why does Olaplex make my hair feel heavy? ›
Many Olaplex products contain a mix of oils, which can overwhelm fine strands and weigh them down. That is especially true if you apply an oil-rich product to dry hair.
What happens if you leave Olaplex 0 on too long? ›Olaplex says that leaving it on for longer (up to 45 minutes, at which point the product loses efficacy) won't cause any damage to the hair, though leaving it in overnight is not recommended as it could end up in your eyes.
What does Olaplex No 3 do? ›Olaplex No. 3 contains Olaplex's patented bond-building ingredient, bis-aminopropyl diglycol dimaleate, which penetrates the hair and rebuilds those damaged bonds. This results in hair that looks and feels healthier.
What does Olaplex 0 do? ›Inspired by salons, the Olaplex No. 0 is a professional, science proven treatment that primes hair for an even more effective repairing treatment. Much like their other best-selling products, the No. 0 rebuilds hair bonds, and strengthens strands to keep hair healthy and free from damage and split ends.
What's the longest to leave OLAPLEX in? ›You can leave the OLAPLEX N. °0 and OLAPLEX N. °3 in longer! However, the efficacy will diminish past 30-45 minutes or when the hair is dry.
What happens if you use Olaplex 3 too much? ›Less is More With Olaplex
The only mistake you can make is using too much – and the only “side effect” of using too much is the processing time climbs and climbs. The hair can never be damaged through the use of Olaplex!
How often can you use No. 3? Once a week is suggested for healthy hair. For those with compromised hair, we recommend 2-3 times a week in combination with your favorite moisture and protein treatments where applicable.
What are the side effects of Olaplex? ›The unfolding lawsuit against Olaplex Holdings Inc.
9, had caused numerous side effects in the affected users, from scalp sores and bald patches to severely damaged hair. "Far from repairing and protecting hair from damage, the products have instead left plaintiffs' hair dry, brittle, frizzy, and dull.
Olaplex No. 6 Bond Smoother is a leave-in styling creme which eliminates frizz, hydrates, repairs & protects all hair types. Olaplex No. 9 Bond Protecting Nourishing Hair Serum was created to provide a protective shield over the hair to protect against damage from pollution, breakage and heat styling.
Is Olaplex No 7 a heat protectant? ›What Else You Need to Know: Olaplex No. 7 repairs, strengthens, and hydrates all hair types. It dramatically increases shine, softness, and color vibrancy, while minimizing flyaways and heat protection up to 450°F/ 230°C. It works on all hair types and textures.
What is the best hair loss shampoo? ›
- Best topical option: Rogaine 5% Minoxidil Unscented Foam, Rogaine 5% Minoxidil Solution.
- Best growth stimulating shampoo and conditioner: Nioxin Kit System.
- Best hydrating shampoo: Art Naturals Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo.
- Blu Atlas Classic Shampoo.
- OGX Thick & Full+ Biotin & Collagen Shampoo.
- Kérastase Bain Densité Shampoo.
- MONDAY Hair Care VOLUME Shampoo.
- Kiehl's Rice & Wheat Volumizing Shampoo.
- Pureology PURE VOLUME Shampoo.
- Nivea Strong Power Shampoo.
- Function of Beauty Shampoo.
2 is a type of pro-only treatment, it's based on OLAPLEX's core technology—that ingredient we mentioned that makes OLAPLEX a bond builder. No. 2 is focused on repair, while the 4-in-1 Moisture Mask not only repairs, but adds moisture and other benefits, making it ideal for clients with more severe dryness and damage.
Why does my hair feel like straw after OLAPLEX? ›A lot of people will use bond treatments and say their hair feels worse - dry and strawy. That's basically the bond building doing its job. The other mistake you might be making is using too much of the product, because new products are exciting and we get excited about using them. So, remember to use a small amount!
Can I just use conditioner after Olaplex 3? ›3 isn't a conditioning treatment, so for best results you will still need to follow it up with your regular conditioner. For maximum benefits, use the Olaplex No. 4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo and Olaplex No.
Is OLAPLEX better on wet or dry hair? ›4 Bond Maintenance) to rid your hair of oil and build up, or if you feel your hair is already clean enough, you can apply Olaplex to dry hair. However, if you apply dry, you'll need more product to thoroughly saturate the hair. Apply a good amount to towel dried (or dry as mentioned above) hair and comb through gently.
Is Olaplex an ethical brand? ›Our cruelty-free, non-toxic formulas promotes wellness in your hair without threatening the environment. OLAPLEX is proud to be free of Parabens, Phthalates and Phosphates.
Did Olaplex lose their patent? ›Yesterday, L'Oréal gained a victory as it secured the invalidation of an Olaplex patent covering keratin treatments for hair and nails. The decision from the Federal Circuit affirms an earlier ruling of the US Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB).
Is Olaplex refunding? ›Olaplex and Cosway have instead implemented “what is essentially a voluntary and entirely self-serving partial recall,” merely allowing customers to return Olaplex products with “no questions asked” for a full refund, regardless of the date of original purchase or amount of product left in the bottle, the case relays.
Will Olaplex refund me? ›If you are in any way not satisfied with your purchase from OLAPLEX.COM, you may return it back to us within 60 days from the date of purchase. We will refund you the cost of goods minus any shipping charges.
What are the complaints about Olaplex? ›
A lawsuit claims Olaplex products contain allergens and irritants that cause hair loss and dry, brittle hair. Nearly 30 women are suing hair care brand Olaplex for negligence and false advertising, claiming their products contain allergens and irritants that caused them hair loss and dry, brittle hair.
What ingredient in Olaplex is controversial? ›And in September 2021, the brand went public and was valued at $14 billion. So, what went wrong? It all began last March when Olaplex was forced to remove the ingredient lilial from its best-selling product, the No. 3 Hair Perfector, after a ban was issued on the ingredient for its links to infertility.
Is Olaplex Made in China? ›Made in California and loved by hair stylists all over the world, Olaplex is the innovative brand that changed the game for hair treatments.
What was banned in Olaplex? ›Lilial has been banned in the European Union (EU) because of links to infertility in animal studies. It is classified as a reproductive toxicant.
Which Olaplex got recalled? ›Olaplex has not recalled any of its products in the wake of the lawsuit. Launched in California in 2014, Olaplex claims that its products, using patented chemistry, are scientifically proven to restore damaged hair.
Does Chanel own Olaplex? ›The investment firm for the family behind Chanel has retained a stake in Olaplex worth approximately US$800 million, Bloomberg notes.
Why is Olaplex valued so high? ›Because the company has a patent-protected portfolio of products, it is able to charge pretty steep prices. A 250ml bottle of Olaplex shampoo will cost $28 -- putting it at the high-end of the market. The company currently has over 100 patents with an average of 13 years remaining on them.
Does Olaplex reverse damage? ›ITS TRUE: Olaplex can reverse Hair damage
To lighten and colour hair the bonds within the hair have to be broken, the lighter the hair, the more bonds are broken!
Despite receiving thousands of complaints, Olaplex has not recalled any of its products, according to the suit. The products are widely available at major retailers including Sephora, Ulta and Amazon.
Can too much Olaplex be bad? ›Less is More With Olaplex
The only mistake you can make is using too much – and the only “side effect” of using too much is the processing time climbs and climbs. The hair can never be damaged through the use of Olaplex!