Quick Answer
The recommended frequency for washing hair with Olaplex is 1-2 times per week. Olaplex is a professional hair treatment that repairs damaged hair and prevents further damage. Using it too frequently can cause overprocessing and strip natural oils. For most hair types, washing with Olaplex once or twice a week is sufficient to get the benefits while avoiding damage from overuse.
How Olaplex Works
Olaplex is a 3-step in-salon treatment that works by repairing broken disulfide bonds in the hair that lead to damage and breakage. It contains an active ingredient called bis-aminopropyl diglycol dimaleate that re-links the disulfide bonds between proteins in the hair.
This helps to restore strength and structure to damaged hair. Olaplex can be used alone or in combination with color or other chemical services to prevent and repair damage.
The Olaplex bonding treatment is followed by the Olaplex take-home maintenance system, which includes a No. 3 Hair Perfector treatment and No. 4 Bond Maintenance shampoo and conditioner. These help prolong the results from the in-salon service.
Benefits of Washing with Olaplex
There are several benefits to incorporating Olaplex into your regular hair washing routine:
– Repairs damage from coloring, bleaching, perming, heating tools, and other chemical/mechanical damage
– Prevents breakage by strengthening and protecting hair strands
– Improves texture, smoothness, manageability
– Enhances shine and vibrancy of color-treated hair
– Helps maintain results from salon Olaplex treatments
– Sulfate-free and safe for all hair types
By repairing bonds within the hair, Olaplex makes hair up to 3 times stronger and reduces breakage by up to 95% according to the company.
How Often Should You Use Olaplex?
Most hair experts recommend using the Olaplex take-home system 1-2 times per week for optimal results. Here are some guidelines based on your hair type and condition:
Damaged or Frequently Heat-Styled Hair
If your hair is damaged from color processing, heat styling, or other treatments, washing 1-2 times per week with Olaplex can help strengthen and restore it.
The No. 3 Hair Perfector can be used as a weekly treatment before shampooing. Use the No. 4 shampoo and conditioner for each wash to reinforce the bonds.
Natural or Virgin Hair
For healthy virgin hair that has never been colored or chemically treated, Olaplex is not required as regularly. Using it once every 1-2 weeks is sufficient to strengthen hair and prevent future damage.
Alternate with your regular shampoo and focus the Olaplex on the ends which tend to get drier and more damaged over time.
Thin or Fine Hair
Overusing Olaplex can lead to limp, lifeless hair especially for those with thin or fine hair types. Limit Olaplex washes to once a week and use a volumizing shampoo on other wash days.
Rinse Olaplex thoroughly and use lightweight conditioners to avoid product buildup.
Oily Hair or Scalp
Frequently washing with Olaplex can weigh down oily hair and lead to limpness. Use a clarifying shampoo once a week and only use Olaplex 1-2 times per month focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. Avoid applying Olaplex products at the roots.
Curly or Coiled Hair
For curly and coiled hair types prone to dryness, Olaplex can provide much needed moisture. However, coilier curl patterns are also prone to buildup.
Limit Olaplex to 1-2 times per week and be sure to clarify regularly. Follow with moisturizing conditioners and styling products.
Color-Treated Hair
People who regularly color their hair every 4-6 weeks benefit most from frequent use of Olaplex. Using the take-home system 2 times a week in between color appointments helps maintain vibrant color and keeps hair strong and healthy.
Time the washes 2-3 days after coloring when oxidation is complete. Clarify once a month to prevent buildup.
Damaged Ends Only
If damage is concentrated only on the ends and the roots and mid-lengths are healthy, focus Olaplex treatments only where needed.
Apply No. 3 treatment only to the ends before shampooing. When washing, shampoo roots normally then apply Olaplex No. 4 shampoo and conditioner only from mid-lengths to ends.
What to Avoid
While Olaplex offers significant hair repair benefits, there are some things to avoid to prevent overuse:
– Washing with Olaplex more than 2 times per week
– Using Olaplex shampoo and conditioner for every wash
– Applying Olaplex to the roots when only the ends are damaged
– Leaving Olaplex No. 3 treatment on longer than recommended
– Not rinsing thoroughly and allowing buildup
– Using Olaplex on hair that is not damaged
– Using too many other bond-building products alongside Olaplex
Overprocessing with too much Olaplex can lead to brittle, dry hair over time. Be strategic about when and where you apply it.
Other Tips for Olaplex Hair Washing
– Always follow with a hydrating conditioner after Olaplex shampoo
– Apply Olaplex No. 3 treatment to damp hair and allow it to set for a minimum of 10 minutes before rinsing
– Comb through No. 3 treatment thoroughly to ensure even application
– Rinse out Olaplex products thoroughly to avoid residue buildup
– Shake the Olaplex No. 4 products before use to activate the ingredients
– Avoid applying Olaplex directly to the scalp if you have an oily scalp
– Clarify hair once a month if using Olaplex frequently to remove buildup
– Use a hair mask or deep conditioner when not washing with Olaplex to maintain moisture
How to Know If You Are Overusing Olaplex
Some signs that you may be overusing Olaplex include:
– Hair feels drier, straw-like, crunchy or brittle
– Loss of curl pattern or limp appearance
– Oiliness or greasy-looking roots
– Product buildup on scalp
– Increased tangles and breakage
– Hair is no longer responding and repairing
– Dull, lifeless color
If you notice any of these issues, cut back on Olaplex treatments. Clarify hair to remove buildup and follow with a hydrating hair mask. Overprocessed hair may need a break from Olaplex entirely until it regains balance.
Summary
Olaplex is a highly beneficial hair treatment that can transform damaged, overprocessed hair. However, moderation is key to getting the best results. For most hair types, limit Olaplex washes to 1-2 times per week max. Focus treatments only where needed, rinse thoroughly, and avoid overuse on virgin hair. Clarify monthly and pair Olaplex with moisturizing products to maintain soft, healthy hair. Consistent but strategic use of Olaplex helps you achieve repaired, stronger strands without the risk of overprocessing.
Olaplex Washing Frequency Recommendations By Hair Type
| Hair Type | Olaplex Washing Frequency |
|---|---|
| Damaged/Color-Treated | 1-2 times per week |
| Natural Virgin Hair | 1-2 times per month |
| Thin/Fine | Once per week |
| Oily | 1-2 times per month |
| Curly/Coily | 1-2 times per week |
| Damaged Ends Only | Focus on ends 1-2 times per week |