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Everything to Know About Olaplex Hair Treatments (Plus Why They're Worth It)

If it feels like everyone is talking about Olaplex, it's because they probably are (especially on TikTok). For many, the brand Olaplex is synonymous with great hair—especially color-treated hair. The logo is proudly plastered in salon windows, and the at-home products are sold at stores like Sephora and Ulta. But what, exactly, is this mythical hair brand, and what does it have to offer that the others don’t? We spoke to Tina Deeke, colorist at Maxine Salon in Chicago, to find out more about Olaplex, including what it does, who should get it, and more.

What Is an Olaplex treatment?

While other hair treatments help repair hair mostly on a more superficial level, Olaplex is different in that it actually transforms strands from the inside-out. Put (very simply), damaged hair contains damaged disulfide bonds, and Olaplex’s patented ingredient, bis-aminopropyl diglycol dimaleate, helps to repair them.

“The in-salon service is designed to protect the disulfide bonds. This strengthens the hair,” explains Deeke. Olaplex treatments can benefit anyone with hair damage, but they are especially great for anyone who has gotten a dramatic color change, such as bleach. “I personally use it on my clients that are fragile or going for a platinum look,” says Deeke. “It’s a must with each service.”

What Are the Benefits of Getting Olaplex?

Olaplex essentially makes the hair healthier from within, helping it look shinier and smoother. It also helps hair color look brighter—often after only one use. Finally, it strengthens the hair, preventing further damage. One of the other great things about Olaplex is that it's safe to use on all hair types, including curly and natural hair, as well as chemically-treated hair. In fact, Olaplex can even be used to maintain human-hair extensions.

What’s the Difference Between At-Home and Salon Olaplex Treatments?

You’ve probably noticed that Olaplex is available in salons and in stores, but the formulas aren’t quite the same. (The numbers on the bottle correspond to what step they are in the complete system.) The Olaplex you get at a salon is technically the first two steps of the system, and is more concentrated. Plus, “Salon treatments are usually built in the chemical services at the salon,” says Deeke. You can find a salon that offers Olaplex treatments here.

On the other hand, “retail Olaplex is a slightly diluted version designed to continue the benefits of the salon treatment,” explains Deeke, who says they “also can be used prior to chemical services.” You can still use these formulas even if you haven't had steps one and two, and you'll still see results. The colorist also says she always recommends the brand’s at-home products for maintenance.