Olaplex perm

By: | Last Updated: May 31, 2022

Have you ever wondered about styling your hair undamaged?

Heat and chemicals from hair styling products can irritate and make our hair dry out. It makes us wish for a magic formula to solve these issues.

But, what if I tell you that a specific solution has arrived? One that’ll wash out our hair woes during the perming process – might be one of your fave hairstyles!

Perhaps you’ve heard of Olaplex? Because that’s the “magic formula” that we’re talking about.

Many haircare YouTubers, celebs, and certified hairstylists alike have sworn on Olaplex. But why is that? Let’s find out.


What is an Olaplex perm?

What is an Olaplex perm

Olaplex is simply a brand of its own – backed by science and intensive research. It is a bond builder that lessens hair damage while perming. It is also famous as a solution for all hair types  that have gone through bleaching and coloring.

Before Olaplex came, it was a rule of thumb for salons to never perm a chemically treated hair because over-styling impairs the hair even more and might cause permanent damage when not taken care of.

Now that Olaplex is in, bleached hair will get a free pass from perming. Double the style, double the fun!

Now, let’s move on to the more science-y stuff. 

How does Olaplex work? And why does it seem too good to be true?

The said brand made their products with a single molecule called “Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate.” Kind of a handful, isn’t it? As complicated as the term looks, its function is pretty straightforward. 

This ingredient helps the hair link sulfur hydrogen quicker, stopping the three oxygen molecules from pairing with it and causing damage. As a result, it significantly strengthens hair from within, protecting and mending it.

To simplify, the damage caused by styling chemicals comes from the breakage of disulfide bonds or the bonds that make each strand durable. Olaplex does restore those damaged bonds and helps the hair create new ones. 


Is Olaplex like a perm?

No, hun. Olaplex is simply a bond builder that’s added to the perming process. During the chemical service, it’s just there to lessen the damage, keeping your hair as healthy as possible. 

Yes, it’s for perming. But not necessarily a perming solution.


How do you use Olaplex when perming?

Olaplex comes with different lines of hair products. So, it may be a bit overwhelming if you directly search them online. That’s why we’re here to help!

Their OLAPLEX No.1 Bond Multiplier and OLAPLEX No.2 Bond Perfector are for perming use. But, note that these two are in their “in-salon line.” It means they are advertised for professional use only.

DIY Olaplex perm isn’t advisable, especially if you are unfamiliar with your hair’s needs.

So, remember fellas, DIY at your own risk.

But, if you’re pretty confident that you can pull this off at home, then better read along.

The formulations below came from Olaplex Official Website. They came from the manufacturer itself! So, indeed, what we have here is the most advisable way to use their products on different hair types.


Olaplex for normal, virgin hair

No. 1 is the first Olaplex product stylists use for perming virgin hair. The standard measurement is to use equal parts OLAPLEX No.1 Bond Multiplier and neutralizer. Both should have 1/16 ounces each.

Add the mixture to the rods after the perm wrap. Remember, fellas, keep the rods on and only remove them after 10 minutes. 

After that, rinse your locks thoroughly, and you’re good to go!


Olaplex Perm on bleached hair or previously-styled hair

For compromised hair (previously permed, colored, or bleached), No. 2 should be your first step. This variant is to perfect the hair by restoring weakened bonds during your previous chemical treatments.

What you have to do is to mix equal parts OLAPLEX No.2 and a protein conditioner. Then, rub it through your damp hair (not drenched!) using your fingers.

After that, let your hair sit with the formula until it’s bone-dried. You can also use a blow dryer to make this process quicker. Mist your hair with water once it’s dried up, and proceed with the perm wrap. That’s it. All set to rock that beach wave!


Olaplex for highly damaged hair

Olaplex for highly damaged hair

Do you have heavily damaged locks? Don’t worry. Olaplex can give you an extra dose of TLC!

You simply have to do the following steps:

  1. Use your preferred neutralizer after your hair has been perm wrapped.
  2. After 5 minutes, carefully rinse the rods and dry them with a towel.
  3. Spread a non-diluted Olaplex No.1 Bond Multiplier on the rods. Leave them for 5 minutes.
  4. Do step three (3) for another two rounds with the same time interval. Don’t rinse them until the third and last round of bond multiplier was applied.
  5. Remove the rods, rinse, and you’re all set!

But, just a quick reminder: the results may vary depending on how damaged your hair is. Some people experienced visible effects right away. At the same time, others needed to have extra sessions to achieve their desired results. On rare occasions, others say it didn’t work at all.

So, if you want to achieve optimal results, consulting a professional hairstylist is always the best option. 


Does Olaplex ruin perms?

Olaplex is a game-changer. Imagine styling your hair multiple times without compromising its curl pattern? Amazing, isn’t it? Almost miraculous even! 

But, just like any other product, Olaplex doesn’t always work wonders. Some also had ugly experiences with it.

Though there aren’t many perm issues, there are complaints about allergic reactions. Some reviews said they noticed good results in their hair, but the scalp was compromised. It felt itchy and irritated.

So, before using any hair products on your own, do a patch test first. Observe for unlikely reactions. If there aren’t any, you’re probably not allergic to it.

CHECK OUT: How to take care of a Digital Perm


How much does an Olaplex perm cost?

Well, the price mainly depends on two factors:

  • Are you going to the salon or DIY?; and
  • What and how many Olaplex products will you need?

The math is simple for the first part. Asking for professional help will cost you more than doing it yourself. But, of course, the level of experience that you’ll have in salons is more likely to be desirable, especially if you’re unsure about DIY.

Now, Olaplex is on the expensive part of the spectrum. They have reputable products, so it’s somewhat justified.

Looking at several online shops, their Salon Intro Kit ranges from $270 to $300+. It comprises one bottle of No. 1 Bond Multiplier and two bottles of No. 2 Bond Perfector, both having 525 mL.

The said package is also available in 100 mL, which costs roughly $110.


Where can I get an Olaplex perm?

Where can I get an Olaplex perm

A lot of salons in the US have Olaplex on their shelves. For example, several Ulta Salon branches around New York, Wyoming, and New Jersey use the said brand. 

If you want to make sure that you’re preferred salon offers Olaplex perm, you can simply ask them. It’d be much more efficient if you could inquire online. Pretty confident they’d be honest, especially if you’re their patron!

You can also search through Olaplex’s Partner Salon and Certified Hair Stylist Locator. Just make sure to check the reviews!

And, of course, you can also do it by yourself. But, you have to keep extra precaution, sweetie! 

It’s hard to find their Salon Intro Kit over-the-counter since it’s for professional use. But, you can check on Etsy, Parfüm für Dich, or Friser and see if they have any stocks available. 

It’s hugely in demand. So, if you can’t find it online, you can buy it at physical haircare stores to check!

Apart from that, finding a legit distributor is also a great choice! You can send an email to [email protected] to have the list.


How long does an Olaplex perm last?

Perms, though “permanent,” don’t last forever.

Generally, perms last for roughly six months. But, in Olaplex, it typically ranges from two to three months only. Guess the healthier option has a downside after all.

But, how come its effects are short-lived?

Well, there isn’t a scientific explanation that directly addresses this. But since most Olaplex users have previously damaged hair, it might be one of the reasons.

Simply, your hair condition can affect the longevity of your perm. If you have dry, frizzy hair, the perm solution’s chemicals will not have a firm grip on your bonds. It may even cause extra damage.

Remember, when it comes to perms, maintenance is vital. So, if you want your perm to last, make sure to take care of it! 

And guess what? There’s an Olaplex variant that helps with this concern.

Olaplex No. 3 is like a mini treatment that you can use weekly. It’s a hair perfector that claims to repair, protect, and strengthen hair while improving its appearance and feel.

No. 3 is a significant third step after your perm. And this is also widely available, so you won’t have a hard time finding one.

CHECK OUT: 7 Things to Consider Before You Get a Digital Perm


Conclusion

Consulting your hairstylist for their professional opinion is wise. There is no shame in asking for help, especially if your hair health is at stake.

They can tell you how to incorporate Olaplex with your hair for the best results. But, if you don’t want to, you do you, bestie. 

Go ahead and rock that beach wave!

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