Olaplex’s claim to fame is that it works. This “not a conditioner” treatment works to strengthen hair from within, reduce breakage and improve its overall look and feel. However, the tried-and-tested quality of Olaplex comes at a cost that many bank accounts find a little frightening. While Olaplex is the leading brand as far as hair repair goes, some of the best Olaplex alternatives offer the same benefits, without the hefty price tag.
There are three main types of damage which Olaplex, and the best Olaplex alternatives, help to fix and protect against. It’s likely your hair experiences at least one of the following types of damage on a daily basis:
- Chemical – Split ends and a lack of moisture are often the result of chemically damaged hair, which is usually caused by treatments such as hair coloring and perms.
- Thermal – Although your hair might look great when you style it using a dryer, tongs or straighteners, the intense heat required can cause serious damage. The negative impacts of this are dry hair which can feel rough or become singed in certain extreme cases.
- Mechanical – Caring for your hair is a bit of a catch-22 situation for many people. This is because hair chores, which are completed with good intention, can leave your hair damaged. For example, brushing your hair to get rid of tangles has a positive result in terms of your hair looking good and being knot-free. However, depending on the brush you use and how much you make contact with the hair, you may actually be causing mechanical damage at the same time.
We’ve rounded up the 11 best Olaplex alternatives which produce similar results without a similar cost, in most cases. All of the products included are designed to repair your hair from existing damage and protect it against future damage, too. By choosing the best Olaplex alternatives, you can care for your hair for less.
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1. Hairgenics Pronexa Hair Bonder
BEST OVERALL
Hairgenics Pronexa Hair Bonder has a similar appearance to Olaplex. It also offers similar protection by treating damaged hair using a two-step process that first repairs your hair, and then protects against future damage. The result of this vegan-friendly formula is shiny, healthy hair. It’s also made in the USA, so you can support a United States-based business while treating your hair to deep conditioning.
2. ION Absolute Perfection Booster
BEST VALUE
ION’s Color Brilliance Absolute Perfection repairs and helps to generate new bonds for stronger hair. This color booster can be added to any hair color or lightener to revitalize hair strength while instantly helping to repair and smooth the surface of the hair. In addition to instant repair, this booster will help reduce dryness during future chemical services while restoring moisture and reducing breakage.
3. L’Oreal Paris Elvive Total Repair
BEST FOR DAILY USE
You can repair a whole year’s worth of hair damage with just one use, according to the L’Oreal Paris Elvive Total Repair. This damage-erasing balm has been designed for daily use in order to diminish weak hair and split ends. For the best results, you should apply it to wet hair, massage it thoroughly with both hands and then leave it to develop for up to five minutes, before rinsing out.
4. Marc Anthony Grow Long Hair Mask
BEST FOR HAIR GROWTH
Marc Anthony Grow Long Hair Mask utilizes argan oil, caffeine and keratin to provide a protein-rich mask that increases the moisture level of your hair. This product is backed by over 3,900 five-star ratings on Amazon from customers who love what it does to their hair. Furthermore, the mask has been specifically designed to encourage natural hair growth while also repairing strands of hair and broken ends.
5. Arvazallia Hydrating Argan Oil Hair Mask
BEST HAIR MASK
For the best results, it’s recommended you leave Arvazallia Hydrating Argan Oil Hair Mask in your hair for five minutes once applied. The sulfate and paraben-free formula is designed to restore your hair’s natural glow and encourage natural growth, too. This is a great Olaplex alternative for all types of hair, even if it is already in good condition, as it will leave your locks feeling soft and healthy.
6. Moroccanoil Treatment Oil
BEST OIL TREATMENT
Moroccanoil Treatment Oil leaves your hair looking up to 118% shinier and feeling much softer, too. Its most prominent ingredient is argan oil which provides deep conditioning and offers a nourishing finish. This Olaplex alternative is particularly effective when it comes to detangling your hair. In addition, it offers a layer of protection against sun and wind damage.
7. SUNATORIA Premium Keratin Hair Mask
BEST WITH KERATIN
SUNATORIA Premium Keratin Hair Mask delivers a luxurious experience and professional-standard finish for your hair. Its premium-looking packaging features gold accents, which continue the overall high quality of this product. The hair mask’s formula utilizes vitamin E, omega three and omega nine to increase the moisture levels across all hair types and textures, including curly, permed and plaited.
8. Redken Bonding Shampoo
BEST SHAMPOO
Using Redken Bonding Shampoo as part of your daily hair care routine is a fantastic way to improve the condition of your hair, without making a big lifestyle change. By making this product one of your daily to-dos, you can enjoy up to 82 percent fewer split ends. Plus, it’s particularly effective on colored hair to ensure longer-lasting vibrance and encourage minimal dryness.
9. Brazillian BondBuild3r Reconstructor Treatment
BEST FOR COLORED HAIR
The Brazillian BondBuild3r Reconstructor is a weekly treatment that quickly fortifies the hair to reduce damage while extending color life and restoring softness. Great for all hair types, simply apply a generous amount after shampooing from roots to ends. Leave on for 5-10 minutes and rinse. Your hair will be soft, your color (if any) will be extended and damage will be reduced.
10. Coco & Eve Like A Virgin Hair Masque
BEST GIFT
Coco & Eve Like A Virgin Hair Masque is a brilliant choice of product for anyone new to really taking care of their hair. Its funky packaging and cute style make it a great gift idea for friends who love looking after their hair. The shea butter and argan oil formula offers a five-in-one treatment to revive, restore, repair, tame and condition your hair. Furthermore, a complimentary tangle teezer comes included, making this Olaplex alternative kit a complete, kick-start combo when it comes to hair care.
11. BRAE Bond Angel Bond Multiplier Treatment
BEST SPLURGE
The Bond Angel Multiplier Treatment was developed to accomplish a more intense blond hair color by restoring damaged hair and preventing breakage. In addition, this Olaplex alternative has the ability to lift your blond color to a lighter level without any damage. The kit contains a Bond Maker, which acts as a chemical protector, and a Bond Reconstructor, which functions as a post-chemical re-builder.
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