Olaplex No.3 Plus Review: The Iconic Bond Repair Treatment Gets a Faster Upgrade
The new Olaplex No.3 range has been thoroughly tested by our beauty expert, revealing why this brand continues to lead the bond-repair haircare industry. Olaplex represents serious hair care with seriously impressive results. As a newcomer to the brand, initial scepticism quickly turned into fandom, with many wishing they had discovered it sooner. This industry-defining name consistently produces hero products that set high standards.
The Evolution of a Gold Standard
The original Olaplex No.3 Complete Repair Treatment has long been regarded as the gold standard for at-home bond repair. Now, the latest evolution, No.3 Plus, priced at £56, has been unveiled. This breakthrough pre-shampoo treatment is clinically proven to make hair three times stronger, three times softer, and healthier-looking, all in just one three-minute application. This reimagined version is designed to save valuable time in the shower, a significant improvement over its predecessor, which required at least 10 minutes to work its magic.
Having used a range of Olaplex products extensively, it is clear that the remarkable No.3 Plus is just one component in a carefully considered system. This system supports hair at every stage, from scalp to styling, working on a molecular level from cortex to cuticle. Below are the products tested, along with those that will be repurchased repeatedly.
Core Products for Daily Haircare
Olaplex No.4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo, currently £22.40 down from £28, and No.5 Bond Maintenance Conditioner, £28, form the backbone of the range. These products quietly improve hair health with every wash. Suitable for all hair types, the nourishing, colour-safe formulas cleanse gently without stripping, leaving hair feeling clean, strong, and healthy. They are ultra-concentrated, so a small amount produces a rich, creamy lather, and the conditioner delivers silky softness and effortless detangling. These staples make everyday haircare feel like a treat.
Specialised Masks for Deep Conditioning
The Weightless Nourishing Mask, £39, is now a go-to for weekly deep conditioning, adding hydration and softness without weighing hair down. It perfectly maintains the balance between nourishment and lightness, making it a reliable choice for keeping fine hair looking healthy and manageable. In contrast, the Rich Hydration Mask is more suited to dry, chemically treated, or highly processed hair. It delivers a heavier moisture boost when extra repair is needed, helping to restore softness, shine, and resilience to fragile or overworked hair. One online customer praised it, saying, "It's really revived my dry, tired hair."
Scalp and Styling Innovations
Because the scalp ages faster than other skin on the body, it can directly affect hair health. Olaplex’s Scalp Longevity Treatment No. 5 immediately hydrates and soothes the scalp while protecting against accelerated scalp ageing. Suitable for all hair types, it is applied to wet hair before styling or even overnight for maximum effect, strengthening roots and improving scalp health. This product exemplifies Olaplex’s preventative innovation, leaving a lasting impression.
The No.6 Bond Smoother, on sale at £26, is a leave-in styling treatment that hydrates and reduces frizz for up to 72 hours. Meanwhile, the Bonding Oil serves as the ultimate finishing touch, nourishing, smoothing, and leaving hair gleaming with glossy, head-turning shine. For those with fine hair, the secret is to use just a small amount.
Conclusion: A System That Delivers
After thoroughly testing the full Olaplex system, it is easy to see why the brand has such loyal fans. From the quick-impact No.3 Plus to the nourishing masks, shampoo and conditioner, and styling finishes, every product feels purposeful and effective. Olaplex continues to set the bar high in the haircare industry, offering solutions that cater to diverse hair needs with proven results.
