5 Editors With Different Hair Types Put This Controversial, Celeb-Loved Hair Brand to the Test
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I remember the first time I heard about Olaplex was years ago because my friend was freaking out about how it was actually included in a holiday sale, the implication being that it’s usually not. She had bleached hair, and people with bleached hair always make such a deal about their hair care routines, and for good reason because otherwise, they’d go bald. But I’ve never had that issue, so Olaplex remained something that just stayed in the back of my mind. This year, a bunch of us on staff tested some of their products, and it was only then that I actually understood that Olaplex isn’t just for bleached hair. (Though it has revolutionized color damage hair care, I’m told.) Plus, they just came out with a scalp serum last month, and dry scalp is something people struggle with regardless of bleach and tone.
Our Favorite Olaplex Products at a Glance
- Olaplex No. 4C Bond Maintenance™ Deep Clean Clarifying Shampoo , $27 (originally $30)
- Olaplex No. 0.5 Scalp Longevity Treatment, $44
- Olaplex No. 5 Moisturize & Mend Leave-In Conditioner , $32
- Olaplex No. 7 Bonding Oil , $26 (originally $30)
- Olaplex No. 9 Bond Protector Hair Serum, $26 (originally $30)
Olaplex has a definite cult following and a reputation for making the summer bleach and tone possible. But it’s also worth noting that there was a class action lawsuit filed against the company for alleged issues of customers reporting hair loss, scalp irritation, and other damage. So, like everything, results will definitely vary. One of our editors said that Olaplex’s shampoo made her hair a bit dry, but she was a fan of the Bond Protector . Miracle products don’t really exist, but it’s undeniable that Olaplex definitely has its diehard users. As is the case with any beauty product, the best thing any individual can do is consult with their hair stylists, try samples, and take it easy. That being said, our staff’s reviews may help make the brand’s extensive line of products less overwhelming to sift through.
“I started using Olaplex shampoo and conditioner when I bleached my hair in 2017. My hairstylist recommended the combo, and it was the only thing that made my damaged hair feel healthy(ish) and hydrated.
Nearly a decade later, I still swear by the stuff—even though I stopped color-treating my hair years ago. The products smell good, but they don’t overwhelm my fragrance-sensitive partner. They lend my hair the perfect amount of weight. And I love that they come in short bottles—they’re super easy to travel with.” —Lindsey Lanquist, Deputy Editor
“I’ve never colored my hair, and I had always assumed Olaplex was really only worth it if you did. I tested both the leave-in conditioner and the new scalp serum for this review. It’s hard for me to say if the serum is doing anything for me. It might just be that I haven’t been using it for long enough to notice a difference, but I haven’t noticed any irritation thus far after about a month of use. As for the leave-in conditioner, it’s a really great formula, and even on days I don’t use it, the overall feel of my hair is softer and more comfortable, and it carries a natural texture really well.” —Aamina Khan, Trending Style Writer
“As someone who regularly got their hair dyed to grey or blue every two months, my hairdresser would religiously ask me if I use Olaplex No. 3 whenever I washed my hair. I would always reply with a resounding yes. It was the first Olaplex product I used and it helped protect the harsh abrasions that comes with regularly bleaching your hair. It kept my hair from being dry and provided protection during the shampoo process. Before I used the product, my hair would be extremely weak and fall out a lot when I showered, but I could see and feel the crystal clear difference when I applied it immediately.
The key to having really great grey or blue hair is to have a purple shampoo that works wonders. These two colors are notorious for washing out and fading away really easily, and purple shampoo might be the sole solution before your bi-monthly touchups. My hair stylist warned me that purple shampoo usually dries out hair, but with No. 4C this kept my hair nourished and non-brassy. It was sometimes a hassle to keep in because the longer you leave it in, the better it keeps away the brass. However, the results always came in shining through.” —Lea Veloso, Entertainment Writer
“I’ve been using the Olaplex No. 4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo for a couple of years now. Since moving to New York in 2021, my hair has felt dryer and more prone to dandruff, and Olaplex has helped me get back moisture and shine. My hair feels healthy, strong, and nourished after washing and following up with the conditioner. My only advice is to not make this the only shampoo you use. After back-to-back washes with just Olaplex my hair felt a bit greasy, so I make sure to add in other products every now and then.
My scalp is prone to dehydration and frizz, and the Bonding Oil is perfect when I need a little shiny pick-me-up after a wash or appointment. It keeps my hair and scalp looking moisturized and hydrated. It’s packed with ingredients like vitamin D, C, E and tea oil, making it a great long-lasting product. I apply when I’m doing at-home silk presses and when I want to freshen up my hair a few days later.” —Robyn Merrett, Style & Beauty Editor
“I tested Olaplex No.9 Bond Protector hair serum—a nourishing styling serum that is formulated to protect and smooth hair that’s frequently exposed to heat and other styling tools—awhile back when I had freshly highlighted hair and really needed the extra TLC. At the time I really liked it. I didn’t love the shampoo, but this serum was actually really hydrating for my parched strands, and it made styling a lot easier, giving my blowout a professional-looking finish.” —Gina Vaynshteyn, Senior Commerce Director
