Frequently Asked Questions PRO

OLAPLEX exclusive patented bond-building technology, Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate, is a first-of-its-kind ingredient that works on the hair internally to seek out and repair broken disulfide bonds caused by all types of damage. When used in chemicals OLAPLEX mitigates the damage normally done with chemical services. When used as a treatment, it rebuilds the broken bonds in the hair, bringing it back to a healthy, virgin-like state every time.

All hair types (natural, curly, fine, straight, etc.) derive most of their strength and integrity from healthy, properly paired, disulfide bonds. When hair is damaged via heat, chemical, mechanical, environmental or pollution, these disulfide bonds are broken apart. OLAPLEX works by building a permanent bridge between the two broken bonds and thus repairing the disulfide bond.

OLAPLEX is beneficial for all hair. From hair that is naturally weak and fragile, chemically treated, virgin or anything in between, OLAPLEX® Bond Building Technology™ repairs all hair types AND all hair textures.

OLAPLEX targets and repairs the 5 key types of damage: chemical, heat, mechanical, environmental, and pollution. Without products to protect your hair from these aggressors, your hair can become dry, brittle, and damaged. Ultimately leading to breakage.

Disulfide bonds are strong chemical, covalent bonds. They are not broken by water, and they account for about 1/3 of the hair’s strength. All hair contains millions of Disulfide bonds, and they are in all three main parts of the hair: the cuticle, cortex, and medulla.

OLAPLEX is non-toxic, free of sulfates, phthalates, DEA, aldehydes, formaldehyde, gluten, parabens, and is vegan and cruelty-free. The MSDS sheet for all products is available at olaplex.com and on the PRO App.

No. OLAPLEX is safe for daily use. You can use OLAPLEX as often as needed without the fear of causing damage

The repair that OLAPLEX provides is permanent and the results will not wash away or fade. However, bonds break daily by damaging chemical, heat, mechanical, environmental, or pollution. It is important to use OLAPLEX in every chemical service. It is also recommended to send clients home with the OLAPLEX at-home retail line to provide additional repair and maintenance between salon visits.

No. OLAPLEX repairs and rebuilds hair bonds. It is not a protein treatment.

Yes. All products in the OLAPLEX portfolio contain our exclusive, patented bond-building technology that repairs broken disulfide bonds and leaves the hair shinier, stronger, and healthier.

No! For maximum repair, N.°1 BOND MULTIPLIER® and N.°2 BOND PERFECTOR® are used as a 2-part Professional system. The only exception is with permanent waving.

If your client has hard or well water, mineral buildup including copper and calcium, we recommended using OLAPLEX N.°4C BOND MAINTENANCE® CLARIFYING SHAMPOO prior to any OLAPLEX treatment to ensure optimal results.

If your client requires more or less than 4 oz. of product for an OLAPLEX Stand-Alone Treatment™, measurements can be modified as follows: ○ Short hair, mix 1/4oz (7.5ml) N.°1 BOND MULTIPLIER®, with 1.5oz (45ml) water. ○ Long hair, mix 1oz (30ml) OLAPLEX N.°1 with 6oz (180ml) water.

The shelf life of a pre-mixed bottle of N.°1 BOND MULTIPLIER®, and water is 2 weeks at room temperature if kept in an airtight container.

Although OLAPLEX is entirely safe and non-toxic, we do not recommend using a spray bottle. The OLAPLEX and water mixture should be added to a non-spraying applicator bottle.

N.°1 BOND MULTIPLIER® and N.°2 BOND PERFECTOR® do not provide moisture, hydration, or protein benefits to the hair. They are formulated to repair disulfide bonds in the internal hair fiber. However, this treatment system will significantly improve the hair's ability to retain moisture and protein. Therefore, when performing an OLAPLEX Stand-Alone Treatment™ or using OLAPLEX with your chemical services, we recommended using OLAPLEX 4-IN-1 to add additional moisture or pair with your favorite protein treatment.

Yes. OLAPLEX is compatible with all color lines and types of color including Semi, Demi, Permanent, High-Lift, Oil-Based, Glosses and Toners

No. When using the recommended amount of N.°1 BOND MULTIPLIER®, there is no need to alter your formula or developer strength. Any issues with lifting or depositing can be solved by using less N.°1 BOND MULTIPLIER® in your formula. Refer to the OLAPLEX Mixing Chart for more information.

No. Any issues with processing time can be solved by using less N.°1 BOND MULTIPLIER® in your formula. Refer to the OLAPLEX Mixing Chart for more information.

Yes. OLAPLEX is compatible with all brands and types of lighteners including powder, clay, cream, and oil based.

Yes. OLAPLEX is not affected by heat. However, if the hair is severely compromised, we do not recommend using heat. Always follow manufacturers ‘processing recommendations.

A heat reaction is caused by the lightener interacting with chlorine and other mineral deposits found in water and on the hair, not by the OLAPLEX product. We recommend performing a clarifying cleanse before any chemical services when working with hair exposed hard water minerals and/or chlorine.

Yes. This step is NOT optional. N.°2 BOND PERFECTOR® is essential to achieve optimal results. It will repair disulfide bonds that were not repaired with OLAPLEX N.°1 BOND MULTIPLIER®.

Yes. High Lift Color is considered Color. Please refer to the OLAPLEX Mixing Chart for the recommended measurements based on the amount of color used.

Yes. N.°2 BOND PERFECTOR® is highly effective and can be used on its own as a mini treatment. Please refer to the OLAPLEX Manual for more information.

Yes. OLAPLEX is compatible with all lines and brands and can be used in all color and lighteners to help rebuild disulfide bonds and mitigate damage for stronger, shinier, healthier-looking hair.

Toner or glosses are applied after cleansing the lightener from the hair and before applying N.°2 BOND PERFECTOR®. For detailed instructions, please refer to the OLAPLEX Manual.

N.°2 BOND PERFECTOR® is applied after cleansing the lightener from the hair. Leave on the hair for 10 minutes and rinse thoroughly before beginning the next lightening application. For detailed instructions, please refer to the OLAPLEX Manual.

BROAD SPECTRUM CHELATING TREATMENT is ideal for clients who live in areas with hard and well water and/or who have moderate to major buildup that could compromise service results.

BROAD SPECTRUM CHELATING TREATMENT binds to metals, hard and well water mineral deposits, and stubborn buildup deep within the cortex layer and removes them from the hair.

BROAD SPECTRUM CHELATING TREATMENT is for professional-only, cortex-deep purification to elevate the efficacy and final results of all salon services. OLAPLEX N.°4C BOND MAINTENANCE® CLARIFYING SHAMPOO is for at-home clarifying, in-salon surface-level deep cleansing, and pre-cleansing to prepare for chelation.

Yes, we recommend starting with OLAPLEX N.°4C BOND MAINTENANCE® CLARIFYING SHAMPOO to remove the buildup of impurities from the hair's surface, allowing for optimal results of the BROAD SPECTRUM CHELATING TREATMENT.

We recommend using BROAD SPECTRUM CHELATING TREATMENT before any chemical services or treatments to achieve the best possible penetration and efficacy.

No. BROAD SPECTRUM CHELATING TREATMENT will remove harmful metals, minerals, and other discoloring deposits that might interfere with the overall performance of the chemical service. Using the chelating treatment will result in a more vibrant, and truer color result but will not speed up the processing time.

The recommended time for BROAD SPECTRUM CHELATING TREATMENT is 15 to 30 minutes with or without heat.

No. Heat is not required. Processing with heat will accelerate and intensify chelation for clients who need it.

OLAPLEX N.°0 BOND BUILDING HAIR TREATMENT is an intensive repair booster that is designed to work as a two-part system with OLAPLEX N.°3 HAIR PERFECTOR to maximize the repair benefits. We do not recommend using it alone.

Each bottle of N.°0 BOND BUILDING HAIR TREATMENT contains approximately 4-6 applications. Application amounts will vary based on the amount used and hair length.

The OLAPLEX Stand-Alone Treatment™ is a professional-strength in-salon service. N.°0 BOND BUILDING HAIR TREATMENT is step one of a two-part system with the N.°3 HAIR PERFECTOR and is designed to be used at-home as a weekly treatment to repair and maintain the health of the hair

Yes. If significant repair is needed, we recommend using N.°0 BOND BUILDING HAIR TREATMENT and N.°3 HAIR PERFECTOR as a 2-part system 2-3 times per week.

No. N.°3 HAIR PERFECTOR is a reparative treatment and is not designed to provide moisturizing benefits. For guests in need additional moisture, we recommend applying N.°8 BOND INTENSE MOISTURE MASK after cleansing N.°3 HAIR PERFECTOR from the hair.

N.°3 HAIR PERFECTOR should be left on the hair for a minimum of 10 min. The product will lose efficacy after 45 minutes or once the product has dried in the hair.

Yes. We recommend cleansing N.°3 HAIR PERFECTOR from the hair. Follow with N.°8 BOND INTENSE MOISTURE MASK or N.°5 BOND MAINTENANCE® CONDITIONER.

Yes. N.°3 HAIR PERFECTOR can be used even when an OLAPLEX Stand-Alone Treatment™ has not been performed. The OLAPLEX at-home retail shares the same active ingredient to repair and rebuild disulfide bonds in the hair.

Yes. N.°4 BOND MAINTENANCE® SHAMPOO is formulated for daily or every wash use.

Yes. N.°4 BOND MAINTENANCE® SHAMPOO is sulfate free.

N.°4 BOND MAINTENANCE® SHAMPOO is ideal for all hair types and textures.

Yes. N.°4 BOND MAINTENANCE® SHAMPOO is safe for color-treated hair.

Yes. N.°4 BOND MAINTENANCE® SHAMPOO is safe for hair treated with Keratin.

Yes. N.°4 BOND MAINTENANCE® SHAMPOO is highly concentrated and does lather nicely. A little bit goes a long way

N.°4P BLONDE ENHANCER™ TONING SHAMPOO combines highly concentrated pigments with our patented bond-building technology and mild surfactants that deliver 3X brighter results (compared to top brands) yet is gentle enough for frequent use.

N.°4P BLONDE ENHANCER™ TONING SHAMPOO provides toning benefits by counteracting brassy and yellow tones on naturally blonde, lightened hair, and grey hair that has taken on a yellow hue.

No. N.°4P BLONDE ENHANCER™ TONING SHAMPOO is formulated with mild surfactants that gently cleanse the hair without stripping or drying while providing the nourishing and benefits of OLAPLEX.

N.°4P BLONDE ENHANCER™ TONING SHAMPOO is perfect for all hair types with medium to light blonde (levels 7 and up) that have yellow or brassy tones that need to be controlled.

Yes, N.°4P BLONDE ENHANCER™ TONING SHAMPOO is safe for color-treated hair.

Yes, depending on the amount of yellow hue or brassiness that needs to be eliminated. However, the recommended use is 2-3 uses a week.

We recommend leaving N.°4P BLONDE ENHANCER™ TONING SHAMPOO on the hair for 1-3 minutes.

Yes. If more deposit is desired, it can remain on the hair more than 3 minutes. The longer it is left on the hair, the more the purple pigment will be deposited, and can result in a purple hue.

No. N.°4P BLONDE ENHANCER™ TONING SHAMPOO will deposit purple pigment that will counteract any yellow or brassy tones in hair, whether it’s natural or artificial. However, it will not shift or lift artificial or natural haircolor.

Yes, you can create more deposit on the hair by using more product. For best results, apply to damp or wet hair, and lather for even results.

N.°4C BOND MAINTENANCE® CLARIFYING SHAMPOO is ideal for all hair types that experience excess product buildup, excess oil, or those living in areas with hard water.

Yes, N.°4C BOND MAINTENANCE® CLARIFYING SHAMPOO is formulated with our exclusive broad-spectrum clarifying system that deeply cleanses to remove impurities like minerals from hard water and the discoloration caused by chlorine from swimming pools and rinses them from hair.

Yes. N.°4C BOND MAINTENANCE® CLARIFYING SHAMPOO is safe for permanent haircolor. During the first two weeks of coloring hair, clarifying is not recommended as this can cause hair color to fade faster. We recommend checking with your stylists when using a clarifying shampoo on color-treated hair.

Yes, the exclusive broad-spectrum clarifying system deeply cleanses to remove impurities resulting in brighter, more vibrant clarity. It can be used on natural blondes or those that have taken their hair lighter.

We recommend using N.°4C BOND MAINTENANCE® CLARIFYING SHAMPOO once every 1-2 weeks or as needed as an alternative to cleansing with N.°4 BOND MAINTENANCE® SHAMPOO.

We recommend using N.°4C BOND MAINTENANCE® CLARIFYING SHAMPOO before any chemical or conditioning treatments to achieve optimal results.

Yes, it is ideal to recommend N.°4C BOND MAINTENANCE® CLARIFYING SHAMPOO for clients to maintain their hair between salon visits.

N.°4D CLEAN VOLUME DETOX DRY SHAMPOO is ideal for anyone looking to absorb excess oil and sweat, to extend the time between washes, or to quickly refresh the hair.

N.°4D CLEAN VOLUME DETOX DRY SHAMPOO is formulated with Rambutan Seed Extract to neutralize toxins caused by daily pollution and free-radicals.

Rather than covering up odors with strong fragrances, Rambutan Seed Extract neutralizes odors caused by pollutants and impurities absorbed by the hair and helps prevent odor-causing oxidation of sebum on the scalp and hair.

No, N.°4D CLEAN VOLUME DETOX DRY SHAMPOO is formulated with weightless rice starch that absorbs odor-causing oil and sweat without causing buildup that weighs down the hair.

The ingredients in Nº.4D CLEAN VOLUME DETOX DRY SHAMPOO allow for the absorption of grease and creates a light space between hair fibers, providing volume.

Our rice starch powder is very small and lightweight. It is a powerhouse oil-absorber and will not clog follicles or build-up on the hair and scalp.

Yes, N.°4D CLEAN VOLUME DETOX DRY SHAMPOO provides a light-as-air dry cleansing for scalp and hair. Even with daily application, hair will be clean with no buildup, dullness, or powdery roots.

No, it does not build up on the hair or leave a powdery residue when following the proper usage instructions. Hold the can 6-10” away from the hair and spray directly onto the roots. Wait 30 seconds and massage into the scalp.

No. N.°4D CLEAN VOLUME DETOX DRY SHAMPOO is formulated with Rambutan Seed Extract to hydrate and counteract the dryness often found in dry shampoos.

N.°4D CLEAN VOLUME DETOX DRY SHAMPOO has a light, fresh scent similar to what’s found in most other OLAPLEX products.

Yes, N.°4D CLEAN VOLUME DETOX DRY SHAMPOO is safe for color-treated hair.

Yes, N.°4D CLEAN VOLUME DETOX DRY SHAMPOO works even if you don’t have oily hair. It absorbs sweat and neutralizes odors caused by pollutants and keeps the hair first-day fresh in between washes.

The amount of N.°4D CLEAN VOLUME DETOX DRY SHAMPOO depends on your hair type and level of oil, sweat or odor in the hair. Start with a small amount and add more only as needed.

Depends on hair length and density.

No, N.°4D CLEAN VOLUME DETOX DRY SHAMPOO removes oil, sweat and neutralizes odor.

Yes, you can use Nº.4D CLEAN VOLUME DETOX SHAMPOO with other products in your styling routine.

No. Co-wash is typically done with a conditioner. Nº.4D Clean Volume Detox Dry Shampoo replaces the use of shampoo in alternance with regular shampoos.

If you sprayed too much product or sprayed too close to the hair, remove by massaging your hair with fingers or brushing your hair. If any residue still exists, use a blow dryer for more thorough removal.

Yes. N.°4D CLEAN VOLUME DETOX DRY SHAMPOO does not contain silicones.

No–to ensure product safety, we submitted N.°4D Clean Volume Detox Dry Shampoo to an independent, third-party lab to test for the presence of benzene. Benzene is a chemical byproduct of some product manufacturing, especially of many aerosols such as deodorants and dry shampoos. The results of our third-party testing show that benzene is not detected in N.°4D down to 0.1 parts per million (ppm). Your safety is our top priority, and we will continue to maintain rigorous health standards for all OLAPLEX products.

Sodium benzoate is a safe and effective preservative. This ingredient is unrelated to benzene. N.°4D CLEAN VOLUME DETOX DRY SHAMPOO has been tested for benzene. No benzene was detected.

Yes, it can be used on all hair types and textures, wigs, and extensions.

N.°4D is designed to absorb any oil/sebum that is released from the scalp and to capture environmental deposits. The number of days the hair stays clean depends on the amount of oil/sebum production and the amount of environmental deposit.

Yes, it is safe to use for cleansing between shampoos, but will likely not provide any volumizing benefits.

OLAPLEX Bond Building Technology™ strengthens the hair.

No, we do not recommend using Nº.4D CLEAN VOLUME DETOX DRY SHAMPOO with heat tools.

Yes. It is safe to use on dry scalp, however, using dry shampoo may make the scalp drier.

We recommend using N.°4D CLEAN VOLUME DETOX DRY SHAMPOO less frequently if you have a sensitive scalp.

N.°4D CLEAN VOLUME DETOX DRY SHAMPOO is formulated with alcohol designed to soak up excess oil and grease in the hair, giving it a cleaner, fresher appearance.

There is no effect on hair color.

No, we do not test on animals.

Yes. N.°5 BOND MAINTENANCE® CONDITIONER is formulated for daily or every wash use.

N.°5 BOND MAINTENANCE® CONDITIONER is ideal for all hair types and textures.

Yes. N.°5 BOND MAINTENANCE® CONDITIONER is safe for color-treated hair.

Yes. N.°5 BOND MAINTENANCE® CONDITIONER is safe for hair treated with Keratin.

For best results, we recommend leaving N.°5 BOND MAINTENANCE® CONDITIONER on the hair for 3 minutes.

N.°6 BOND SMOOTHER™ can be applied to both damp and dry hair.

N.°6 BOND SMOOTHER™ provides heat protection for use when blow dry styling but is not rated for 450F (232C). We recommend applying a separate heat protectant when using any additional heat styling tools.

No. N.°6 BOND SMOOTHER™ can be used when blow drying or air drying.

N.°6 BOND SMOOTHER™ is designed to strengthen, hydrate, and protect the hair while reducing frizz and flyaways.

Yes. However, the smoothing effects of N.°6 BOND SMOOTHER™ will last up to 72 hours. There is no need to use it daily unless the hair has been cleansed and conditioned.

No. N.°6 BOND SMOOTHER™ smooths the hair without adding hold or excess weight. It is important to use the appropriate amount of the product for the hair type and texture. Less is more!

Yes. N.°6 BOND SMOOTHER™ can be mixed or layered with other styling products including creams, mousses, and gels.

N.°6 BOND SMOOTHER™ is a leave-in reparative styling product that minimizes frizz to smooth the hair. OLAPLEX N.°8 BOND INTENSE MOISTURE MASK is a highly concentrated weekly mask that adds shine, smoothness & body while providing intense moisture. The hair will benefit by using both products rather than choosing one over the other.

No. N.°7 BONDING OIL™ will not cause any discoloration or tonal changes to the hair.

No. N.°7 BONDING OIL™ is a highly concentrated, weightless reparative styling oil that fully absorbs into the hair. It will not coat or leave the hair with a greasy feeling. Start with 1-2 drops on damp or dry hair and add more as needed depending on the hair texture.

Yes. N.°7 BONDING OIL™ provides heat protection up to 450oF (232oC).

N.°7 BONDING OIL™ is a lightweight reparative oil that enhances shine and vibrancy while protecting the hair from the heat of styling tools. N.°6 BOND SMOOTHER™ is a leave-in reparative styling cream that reduces frizz and fly aways to leave hair hydrated and smooth. They can be used on their own, mixed, or layered with other styling products.

N.°8 BOND INTENSE MOISTURE MASK can be used weekly as an alternative to their regular conditioner or as needed to add intense moisture, shine and smoothness to the hair.

N.°3 HAIR PERFECTOR is a reparative treatment, not a mask or a conditioner. N.°8 BOND INTENSE MOISTURE MASK is a deep conditioning mask that repairs and hydrates the hair. Both can be used weekly for intense moisture and repair.

N.°5 BOND MAINTENANCE® CONDITIONER infuses the hair with moisture for healthier-looking hair and is designed to be used daily or every wash. N.°8 BOND INTENSE MOISTURE MASK is a highly concentrated weekly mask that adds shine, smoothness & body while providing intense moisture for visibly healthier-looking hair.

N.°8 BOND INTENSE MOISTURE MASK is powered by OLAPLEX patented Bond-Building Technology and uses top-quality ingredients to infuse the hair with intense moisture. The weightless texture fully absorbs into the hair & provides residual benefits that last multiple shampoos. The airless pump helps to control the proper dose for any hair type or texture.

Yes. Though you can use this on the back bar, we recommend using OLAPLEX 4-IN-1 at the backbar to add intense moisture to your client’s hair, and retailing home N.°8 BOND INTENSE MOISTURE MASK to maintain their hair at home.

N.°9 BOND PROTECTOR NOURISHING HAIR SERUM is a silicone free, weightless, antioxidant-rich serum that increases manageability, provides style memory, and protects from heat and pollution.

N.°9 BOND PROTECTOR NOURISHING HAIR SERUM bonds to the hair fiber like an invisible damage shield to protect the hair from pollution while potent antioxidants neutralize free radicals to prevent damage.

No there are no silicones in this product.

N.°9 BOND PROTECTOR NOURISHING HAIR SERUM is ideal for all hair types and textures.

N.°9 BOND PROTECTOR NOURISHING HAIR SERUM is a silicone free, weightless, antioxidant-rich serum that increases manageability, provides style memory, and protects from heat and pollution. N.°6 BOND SMOOTHER™ is a styling treatment that provides frizz control for up to 72 hours, faster blow-drying, while smoothing, moisturizing, and strengthening the hair.

No. It has a silky-smooth texture.

No, it is water activated.

It is best to use N.°9 BOND PROTECTOR NOURISHING HAIR SERUM on wet or damp hair. Moisture is necessary to activate the protective benefits.

N.°9 BOND PROTECTOR NOURISHING HAIR SERUM should be applied onto damp hair, prior to any other products to deliver high concentrations of protective and nourishing ingredients.