
When it comes to hair care, the term “protein treatment” often surfaces in discussions about repairing and strengthening damaged hair. Olaplex, a brand that has gained immense popularity in recent years, is frequently mentioned in the same breath. But is Olaplex truly a protein treatment? To answer this question, we must delve into the science behind Olaplex, the role of proteins in hair care, and how these two concepts intersect—or don’t—in the world of hair restoration.
Understanding Protein Treatments
Protein treatments are designed to replenish the natural proteins in hair, primarily keratin, which is the building block of hair strands. These treatments are particularly beneficial for hair that has been damaged by chemical processes, heat styling, or environmental factors. The idea is to fill in the gaps in the hair’s structure, making it stronger, more elastic, and less prone to breakage.
Common protein treatments include hydrolyzed keratin, collagen, and silk proteins. These ingredients penetrate the hair shaft, binding to the hair’s natural proteins to reinforce its structure. The result is hair that feels thicker, looks shinier, and is more resilient to future damage.
What is Olaplex?
Olaplex, on the other hand, is not a protein treatment. It is a bond-building system that works on a molecular level to repair broken disulfide bonds in the hair. Disulfide bonds are the strongest bonds in the hair structure, and when they break—due to chemical treatments like coloring, perming, or relaxing—the hair becomes weak, brittle, and prone to breakage.
Olaplex’s active ingredient, bis-aminopropyl diglycol dimaleate, works by reconnecting these broken bonds, effectively restoring the hair’s integrity. This process is different from protein treatments, which focus on adding proteins to the hair rather than repairing its internal structure.
The Intersection of Olaplex and Protein Treatments
While Olaplex is not a protein treatment, it can be used in conjunction with protein treatments to achieve optimal hair health. Here’s how:
-
Complementary Benefits: Olaplex repairs the internal structure of the hair, while protein treatments strengthen the hair’s outer layer. Using both can provide a comprehensive approach to hair repair, addressing both internal and external damage.
-
Enhanced Results: When used together, Olaplex can help the hair better absorb and retain the proteins from a protein treatment. This is because Olaplex restores the hair’s integrity, making it more receptive to other treatments.
-
Preventing Future Damage: By repairing the hair’s internal bonds, Olaplex can make the hair more resilient to future damage, which means that the benefits of a protein treatment will last longer.
Common Misconceptions
One of the biggest misconceptions about Olaplex is that it is a protein treatment. This confusion likely arises because both Olaplex and protein treatments are used to repair damaged hair. However, as we’ve established, they work in fundamentally different ways.
Another misconception is that Olaplex can replace protein treatments. While Olaplex is incredibly effective at repairing broken bonds, it does not provide the hair with the proteins it needs to strengthen and rebuild its structure. Therefore, it should be used as a complementary treatment rather than a substitute.
How to Use Olaplex and Protein Treatments Together
For those looking to maximize the benefits of both Olaplex and protein treatments, here’s a suggested routine:
-
Start with Olaplex: Use Olaplex No. 1 and No. 2 as directed, either at home or in a salon. These products will repair the hair’s internal bonds, preparing it for further treatment.
-
Follow with a Protein Treatment: After using Olaplex, apply a protein treatment to strengthen the hair’s outer layer. Look for products that contain hydrolyzed keratin, collagen, or silk proteins.
-
Maintain with Olaplex No. 3: Use Olaplex No. 3, the at-home treatment, once a week to maintain the hair’s integrity and prevent future damage.
-
Regular Conditioning: Incorporate a protein-rich conditioner into your routine to keep the hair nourished and strong.
Conclusion
In summary, Olaplex is not a protein treatment, but it can be a valuable addition to a hair care routine that includes protein treatments. By repairing the hair’s internal structure, Olaplex enhances the effectiveness of protein treatments, leading to stronger, healthier, and more resilient hair. Understanding the differences between these two types of treatments is key to achieving the best results for your hair.
Related Q&A
Q: Can I use Olaplex and a protein treatment on the same day?
A: Yes, you can use Olaplex and a protein treatment on the same day. Start with Olaplex to repair the hair’s internal bonds, then follow up with a protein treatment to strengthen the hair’s outer layer.
Q: How often should I use Olaplex and protein treatments?
A: Olaplex No. 3 can be used once a week, while protein treatments can be used every 2-4 weeks, depending on the condition of your hair. Always follow the instructions on the product labels.
Q: Can Olaplex replace protein treatments?
A: No, Olaplex cannot replace protein treatments. While Olaplex repairs broken bonds in the hair, protein treatments provide the necessary proteins to strengthen and rebuild the hair’s structure.
Q: Is Olaplex suitable for all hair types?
A: Yes, Olaplex is suitable for all hair types, including chemically treated, damaged, and even healthy hair. It works on a molecular level to repair and protect the hair, regardless of its type or condition.