Imagine a world where you could take your hair from black to blonde without damage, breakage and fried ends. Sounds like a dream, doesn’t it? Well, it’s actually possible thanks to the latest “miracle” treatment available in salons now known as Olaplex. We caught up with Toronto salon, Medulla & Co. and asked their entire team of stylists (that’s four experts!) about this revolutionary before/during/after colour treatment. Luis (founder/principal), Jazmin, Carolyn and Liz all chipped in to answer the burning questions surrounding Olaplex and how it works, giving you the lowdown now to save your locks later. Consider it hair insurance.
What is Olaplex?
Olaplex is an additive treatment mixed into bleach or colour to prevent damage from processing, help rebuild the hair and lengthen how long the colour lasts. Olaplex also adds protein back into the hair to strengthen it.
How does it work and who is a candidate for it?
There are three Olaplex treatments: No. 1 Bond Multiplier is added to the lightener to strengthen hair as it is being lightened. No. 2 Bond Perfector is applied directly to the hair at the sink to act as a sealer. No. 3 Hair Perfector is for at-home use. Olaplex is not necessary for anyone with virgin hair, or for those who use demi permanent colour. Olaplex is best for people who lighten/bleach their hair, or for people with damage (either from chemical or mechanical- ie, hot tools).
Why do you use it in your salon? Do you recommend it for any hair type?
We use Olaplex because it is one of the best bonders on the market. With this powerful tool, we can push [lighter] colour further, because it keeps the integrity of the hair intact. You can think of it as a ‘safety net’ and yes, Olaplex is suitable for any hair type.
How long does it take? Can a client do it at home?
This is a salon professional-use treatment. In terms of processing time, when added to lightener, it does not increase the amount of time but the 2nd step, the sealer, takes 20 minutes. Clients can take Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector home, but it is only needed with badly damaged hair.
About Medulla & Co.: Medulla & Co. is one of Toronto’s first concept spaces: part ingredient conscious luxury hair salon, and part curated lifestyle shop. As an ingredient conscious salon, they are invested in creating beautiful hair without the use of harsh chemicals, instead they rely on the skill of each stylist/colourist. Their colourists are technique driven, and specialize in free-hand hairpainting and balayage. Recently their colour department has become more ‘colourful’ as more and more clients are keen to experiment with colourful pastel and grey hair.
