What Is Olaplex?
Olaplex is a bond-building hair treatment system that repairs the disulphide bonds in hair that are broken during chemical processes like colouring, bleaching, and heat styling. It was a genuine revolution in hair science when it launched, and it remains one of the most effective hair treatments available today.
How Does Olaplex Work?
The active ingredient in Olaplex (bis-aminopropyl diglycol dimaleate) works on a molecular level to find and reconnect broken hair bonds. Unlike conditioning treatments that simply coat the outside of the hair shaft, Olaplex works internally, rebuilding the structure of the hair itself.
The Olaplex System
Olaplex has a range of numbered products, each used at a different stage. No. 1 and No. 2 are professional products used in the salon during colour services. No. 3 is the at-home treatment. No. 4, 5, 6, and 7 are daily use shampoo, conditioner, styling cream, and oil respectively.
Who Needs Olaplex?
Anyone who regularly colours, bleaches, or heat-styles their hair can benefit from Olaplex. It’s particularly important for those undergoing lightening services, the bleaching process is the most damaging chemical treatment for hair, and Olaplex can significantly reduce that damage both during and after the service.
Is It Worth the Cost?
Yes, unequivocally. The cost of an Olaplex add-on during your colour service is a fraction of the cost of colour correction or treatment for severely damaged hair. Prevention is always more cost-effective than repair.
Olaplex at Iron + Ivy Hair
We incorporate Olaplex into our colour services and offer it as a standalone treatment. Book your appointment in Queenstown and ask us about adding Olaplex to your next visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is an Olaplex treatment at Iron + Ivy?
From $49 as an add-on, and it is included in every foil and balayage appointment. The Ultimate Repair Combo, Olaplex plus the Lakme K20 Recover treatment, is $90.
Is Olaplex worth it if I do not colour my hair?
Sometimes. Olaplex repairs broken bonds, which mostly come from lightening. If your damage is from heat, hard water or dryness, the K20 Recover treatment (from $65) will do more. Your stylist will tell you which at the basin.
How often should I have Olaplex?
At every lightening appointment, and as a standalone between colour visits if your hair feels weak. Using Olaplex No. 3 at home once a week extends the result.
What is the difference between Olaplex and K18?
Both repair bonds in bleached hair. Olaplex works during the colour service and is what we use in the salon; K18 is a leave-in for home use. They are complementary rather than either-or. See our Olaplex vs K18 guide for the detail.
About Iron + Ivy Hair Studio
Iron + Ivy Hair Studio is at Queenstown Central, 19 Grant Road, Frankton, five minutes from Queenstown Airport with free parking at the door. The team, led by Creative Director Lauren McMurray, specialises in blondes, balayage, hair extensions and precision cuts, and every colour price includes the bond treatment, toner and cut. New colour clients start with a free consultation.
Your hair goals are closer than you think. Book at Iron + Ivy Studio
Where to next? See balayage in Queenstown and our blonde specialist services, or book a free consultation and we will plan it with you.
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