OLAPLEX No.3 is an intensive hair treatment designed to repair damage caused by bleach and heat. Originally a salon favourite, it’s recently gone viral on TikTok thanks to the visible, transformative results it delivers after use.
If you’ve been left wondering ‘What does OLAPLEX No. 3 do?’, we’re here to break it down for you. A game-changer for those seeking healthier hair, this OLAPLEX original goes a step further than typical moisture treatments (which only really smooth over the surface), by working to repair hair from within.
Here’s everything you need to know about how to use OLAPLEX No.3 and how it works.
How to use Olaplex No.3
Ready to reverse signs of hair damage? Follow these three simple steps for stronger, hydrated, healthier-looking locks.
1. Wet hair and towel dry – Give hair a light rinse, then towel dry thoroughly. OLAPLEX No.3 works best on damp hair, as this allows for even application, thorough saturation, and better absorption of the product.
2. Apply to damp hair – Squeeze a generous amount of OLAPLEX No. 3 onto your lengths, then comb through from roots to tips until your hair feels fully saturated.
3. Leave on – Let the hair mask work for at least 10 minutes. For the best results, wrap your hair in cling film or wear a shower cap to lock in heat and moisture, which will boost absorption and help ingredients penetrate the hair better.
4. Rinse and remove – Rinse your hair thoroughly and follow with your usual shampoo and conditioner routine. For maximum benefits, use the OLAPLEX No.4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo and OLAPLEX No. 5 Bond Maintenance Conditioner.
What does OLAPLEX No.3 do?
OLAPLEX No.3 is not your typical hair treatment and is often mistaken for or compared to moisture masks. While most moisture masks rely on silicones and oils to treat the outer layers of the hair, OLAPLEX No.3 stands out by working from within, repairing broken disulfide bonds. This makes it especially effective for hair that has been coloured, heat-styled, or treated with processes like perms or keratin treatments. If your hair is healthy, you may not notice as dramatic of a result as someone with bleached or damaged hair will.
Can you leave OLAPLEX No.3 on overnight?
Yes! The longer you wear OLAPLEX No.3, the better. We recommend applying before you go to bed and leaving on through the night, or using the treatment to slick back hair into a low bun during the day if you’d prefer not to sleep in it.
How often should you use OLAPLEX No. 3?
You can use OLAPLEX No.3 as often as 2-3 times a week, depending on how damaged your hair is. If you regularly colour or heat style your hair then it’s ideal as a weekly treatment, but if you’re using it to maintain healthy hair, then you probably don’t need to use it as often. Searching for the ultimate haircare health-kick? We recommend pairing your No.3 with OLAPLEX No. 0 for next level nourishment.
Is OLAPLEX No. 3 safe to use?
It was recently revealed that OLAPLEX No.3 contained an ingredient (a fragrance known as lilial) that was set to be banned by the EU over concerns about its impact on fertility. Cosmetic experts have confirmed that the amount used within the OLAPLEX No.3 formula (0.0119%) makes the product totally safe to use, and the product will no longer be formulated with lilial.
