Is Olaplex a protein treatment?

Author: Dylan Stracke  |  Last update: Tuesday, August 19, 2025

While some OLAPLEX products contain some protein, the amounts are minimal and not enough to be considered a protein treatment. Therefore, OLAPLEX is not a protein treatment. OLAPLEX works at a molecular level to rebuild the hair internally. Our hair contains millions of disulfide bonds.

Is Olaplex a protein or moisture treatment?

Olaplex doesn't address cosmetic issues like moisture and shine, it's just insurance against breakage. So you'll need to follow any Olaplex treatment with a hydrating mask or with protein if you think it's necessary. However, don't use protein more than once a month unless you know that your hair loves protein.

Is a bond treatment the same as a protein treatment?

A protein treatment helps replenish lost protein in the hair's cuticle, while a bond builder works to bridge broken bonds and rebuild the hair fiber from the inside out. Both treatments are highly recommended, especially for hair that has been bleached multiple times.

What kind of treatment is Olaplex?

What is it: The original take-home treatment is a global bestseller and the product that put Olaplex on the map. No. 3 is not a conditioner, it's an at-home treatment that reduces breakage and visibly strengthens hair by relinking broken bonds and reversing damage caused by heat styling, chemical treatments.

What are the bad side effects of Olaplex?

According to the suit, Olaplex products contain ingredients called "lilial" and "panthenol" that can lead to conditions causing hair loss and scalp injuries, including "inflamed, blistered, flaking or scaling skin." Lilial is banned from hair and beauty products in Europe.

How to use OLAPLEX ? Is OLAPLEX a protein treatment? Protein treatment VS Bond Builder

What is the lawsuit against Olaplex?

Lilial Exposure

The Olaplex lawsuit alleged that lilial is a known allergen that can lead to scalp irritation and hair loss. It also alleged that the company failed to warn consumers of fertility risks from using Olaplex No. 3. In 2020, the European Union required lilial to be removed from cosmetics by March 2022.

How to tell if hair is lacking protein?

Signs And Symptoms of Protein Deficiency in Hair
  1. Your Hair is Super Porous.
  2. Your Hair is Limp and Stringy.
  3. Your Hair Has Low Elasticity.
  4. Your Hair Has Been Colored Recently.
  5. There's Increased Shedding.
  6. Lack of Elasticity.
  7. Your Hair Feels Gummy.
  8. Your Have Split Ends.

Can too much protein treatment damage hair?

Yes, excessive protein can compromise hair health. When there's an abundance of protein, the hair can become stiff, dry, and brittle. This lack of flexibility causes the hair to break more easily. If your hair feels tough, hard, and snaps easily, you might be experiencing protein overload.

What is protein treatment for hair called?

Your body naturally produces keratin, and keratin helps form your hair, nails and skin. Keratin products and treatments can help strengthen your hair and make it look brighter and feel softer.

Does Olaplex Bond have protein?

No, Nº. 0 Intensive Bond Building Hair Treatment does not contain protein.

What are the side effects of protein treatments for hair?

Here are the most common protein treatment for hair side effects you should be aware of before proceeding.
  • Protein Overload. ...
  • Dryness and Brittle Hair. ...
  • Hair Breakage. ...
  • Allergic Reactions. ...
  • Scalp Sensitivity. ...
  • Frizz and Texture Change. ...
  • Weakened Colored Hair. ...
  • Hair Thinning.

What is the difference between OLAPLEX and K18?

Key Differences

Technology Focus: K18 uses peptide technology to reconnect broken chains and bonds, while Olaplex focuses on rebuilding broken disulfide bonds with its unique molecule. Application Phases: K18 is segmented into pre-service and post-service applications, each with tailored pH levels for maximum efficacy.

Is Olaplex No. 3 a protein treatment?

Olaplex is NOT a moisture or protein treatment for curly hair. If you have just started your journey, we recommend you use olaplex more often. Then as the hair gets healthier, pull back on the usage of the no 3.

Can you overuse Olaplex?

3 as OLAPLEX is non-toxic and repairs the hair. It is not a protein treatment, so there's no adverse effects from using it often. Our moisture treatments are also safe to use as often as needed. Misconception: OLAPLEX is only for colored hair.

Does Olaplex have too much protein?

There are 2 olaplex products, number 4 and number 6. They contain minimal amount of. hydrolyzed vegetable proteins. And the levels of these proteins are very low, less than 001 percent.

What does protein overload hair look like?

One major sign is a change in the look and texture of your hair as it may start to look dry, dull, and brittle. Your hair may feel more coarse and struggle to hold a curl when dealing with protein overload. Too much protein may also cause split ends and breakage, leaving hair to shed more.

Why does hair fall after protein treatment?

Even though protein treatments for hair are done for nourishment, exposing your hair to frequent protein treatments can result in more damage. These treatments can make your hair dry and brittle, leading to more breakage. Excessive use of protein treatments might also trigger hair loss.

Can too much protein cause thinning hair?

It's uncommon for excessive protein intake from regular meals to cause hair loss on its own. Consuming extremely high amounts of protein supplements long-term could potentially tax the kidneys. However, most experts agree this level of excess is rare without the use of concentrated supplements.

What does hair look like without protein?

If you notice your tresses have become stringy, limp, or gummy (meaning hair stretches like a rubber band and snaps) you could be lacking protein.

Does putting coconut oil on your hair help?

Coconut oil can have many benefits for your hair and scalp. It is used to relieve dandruff, restore luster to dry and damaged hair, tame frizz, and protect hair against styling damage. It is safe to use on all hair types.

What is the best homemade protein treatment for hair?

Mayonnaise and eggs both are rich sources of proteins and their combination would work wonders for dull-damaged hair. Combine an egg white and 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise to form a thick paste. Apply this paste to your hair and leave it for 30 to 40 minutes.. Avoid applying to the scalp if you have an oily scalp.

Why did people stop using Olaplex?

Olaplex lawsuit: Users claim hair products caused bald spots, blisters. Dozens of hair care brand Olaplex customers allege the products caused “serious injury,” according to a lawsuit filed last week. Olaplex denies the claims, saying independent test results prove the allegations to be false. The ethos was simple.

What is as good as Olaplex but cheaper?

10 best Olaplex alternatives Stylist's beauty team loves
  • Living Proof Triple Bond Complex. ...
  • Redken Extreme Mask Strength Builder. ...
  • Cantu Shea Butter Grow Strong Strengthening Treatment. ...
  • Redken Acidic Perfecting Concentrate and Kèrastase Fusio Dose.

Why is my hair falling out after using Olaplex?

So, Can Olaplex Cause Hair Loss? There is no evidence that any Olaplex products cause hair loss, despite the claims. Olaplex has science and studies on their side, and many people have experienced positive results with their products, whether that's their shampoo and conditioner or their oils.

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