Olaplex is a brand that needs no introduction at this point. But before we get into the latest product coming in 2024, the Olaplex No.5 Leave-in Conditioner, let me tell you something for those of you who aren’t familiar with it.
The brand is centered around patented molecules that repair broken bonds within the hair caused by things like coloring and heat styling. Initially an in-salon service, the product that put it on the map and paved the way for an entire category of bond repair hair products was the at-home Olaplex No. 3 treatment that allowed consumers to care for damage in the comfort of their own home. their home. The brand’s groundbreaking repair technology was touted as the reason Kim Kardashian was able to quickly and dramatically change her hair color without major damage to her hair.
A recent addition to the bond-building portfolio is the No. 5 Leave-In Conditioner. This promises to moisturize and repair your hair, reducing the appearance of split ends. So how does that stack up in real life? After using it for about 2 weeks, I have some thoughts…
Olaplex No.5 Leave-in Conditioner
As for the packaging, there’s nothing really surprising about it. The No.5 Leave-In comes in a wide cylindrical tube that is almost identical to the Olaplex No.8 mask, and follows the brand’s mostly white color scheme. The slight difference is the swirl pattern across the label, but the overall aesthetic remains minimalistic.
Unsurprisingly, this new launch includes patented molecules across the Olaplex range, as well as the Hydra Amino Replenishment Blend. It also provides thermal protection up to 232°C. This is sufficient for most, if not all, styling temperatures available on tools such as the best curling irons.
As for the formula itself, the texture is very fluid and lightweight. For those who enjoy and prefer a thicker consistency for no-rinse, this is not it. It’s like a serum, so it’s not particularly concentrated. Therefore, it can be used even on dry hair. Tom Smith – hairstylist, TikTok-famous trend forecaster, and Olaplex ambassador – says that although my hair struggles to fully absorb even the best hair oils (I treat them before washing) ), but I correctly assessed that a little bit of this would go a long way. There is no problem in a dry stand. In this case, I apply just a little bit and concentrate towards the ends of my hair.
(Image credit: Lucy Avastin)
I think the results are not something you can see, but something you can feel. When you’re done styling, does your hair feel a little healthier, stronger, and overall…better? This gives it such a boost. My split ends are very noticeable on my reddish-brown hair, so I try to trim them. As I get closer to my next haircut, I’ll be able to assess how well my split ends will be hidden, but so far it’s been working fine.
Overall, I think this is a good release from Olaplex. Its styling products are great, but they haven’t blown me away so far, but I’ve consistently returned to the No. 5 leave-in conditioner every wash since I got it. However, I think it’s important to control expectations. This isn’t really rich in nutrients, so if your hair is thick and needs a lot of moisture, I think you’ll need more than just this product. My hair is medium to fine and gets very dry, so I get the best results when layered with another spray. But I am still impressed with the stronger feel it gives my hair. This leave-in provides buildable, lightweight hydration, goes far and, in my experience, doesn’t weigh down your hair.
Shop other Olaplex products
Olaplex No 3 Hair Perfector
Olaplex No.4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo
Olaplex No.5 Bond Maintenance Conditioner
