Olaplex has become an extremely popular at-home hair treatment, with Olaplex No. 3 being one of their most well-known products. Many people wonder if you can leave Olaplex No. 3 treatment in your hair overnight for extra conditioning benefits or if this will damage your hair. Here is a detailed look at whether or not leaving Olaplex 3 in overnight is safe and effective.
What is Olaplex?
Olaplex is a brand of hair care products that are focused on repairing damaged bonds in your hair that lead to dryness, breakage, and frizz.
The key active ingredient in Olaplex products is bis-aminopropyl diglycol dimaleate. This molecule works to find single sulfur hydrogen bonds in the hair that have been broken due to damage from things like heat styling, chemical processing, and sun exposure. Olaplex re-links these broken bonds to restore the integrity of the hair.
How Olaplex 3 works
Olaplex No. 3 is an at-home treatment that comes in a 3.3 oz bottle. It is designed to be applied to damp hair that has been shampooed and towel dried.
Olaplex No. 3 contains a high concentration of the active bis-aminopropyl diglycol dimaleate ingredient. When massaged into the hair and left on for a recommended time of 10 minutes to overnight, it works to find broken disulfide bonds in the hair and relink them.
This helps to rebuild the hair structure from the inside out, improving strength, texture, shine, and managing frizz and tangling. Olaplex claims leaving No. 3 on for longer allows the active ingredient to penetrate deeper into the hair over time for maximum repair.
Is It Safe to Leave Olaplex 3 in Overnight?
The official instructions for Olaplex No. 3 state that it can be left on hair for a minimum of 10 minutes up to overnight. Leaving it on overnight is generally considered safe for most hair types.
However, there are a few factors to consider before choosing to leave Olaplex 3 in for extended periods:
Hair Porosity
Hair porosity refers to your hair’s ability to absorb and retain moisture. Those with high porosity hair tend to benefit from leaving Olaplex 3 in longer, as the damaged cuticles soak up active ingredients well.
People with low porosity hair may find leaving Olaplex in overnight too intensive, as the cuticles don’t absorb as much.
Hair Health
If your hair is extremely damaged from overprocessing, leaving Olaplex 3 in overnight can help strengthen and repair bonds. Those with virgin or minimally processed hair likely won’t need an overnight application.
Hair Type
In general, curly and coily hair types are more porous and can soak up active ingredients with a longer application time. Straight, fine hair often gets weighed down more easily and may not need more than 10-30 minutes of processing time.
Other Products Used
Be mindful of any other chemical treatments or products you use in combination with Olaplex 3. For example, using Olaplex after bleaching and toning hair is beneficial to repair bonds. But overprocessing from too many chemical treatments at once can be damaging.
Allergies
As with any hair product, there is a small chance for an allergic reaction to Olaplex. Do a patch test before first use. If any itching or burning occurs, wash out immediately. Don’t leave on overnight if you notice any irritation upon application.
Benefits of Leaving Olaplex 3 in Overnight
While results will vary by hair type and condition, there are some benefits cited for leaving Olaplex No.3 in for extended periods or overnight:
Stronger Hair
Overnight conditioning allows the active ingredient more time to find and repair broken disulfide bonds within the hair shaft. The longer it can penetrate, the more bonds it can re-link for stronger hair.
Reduced Frizz
By repairing damage, Olaplex helps restore moisture balance in the hair. This can lead to smoother, less frizzy hair with more definition.
Easier Detangling
As Olaplex strengthens and smooths the hair cuticle, it often becomes easier to detangle with less breakage and hair loss. Many report decreased tangles after overnight use.
Softness
An overnight Olaplex treatment leaves hair feeling softer and more conditioned. The extended processing time allows the product to deeply moisturize.
More Volume
Some people notice their hair appears fuller with more body after leaving Olaplex No. 3 in overnight. This may be due to the product’s bond-repairing action allowing hair to feel lighter.
Shininess
With extended use, Olaplex can help seal the cuticle for reflective, healthy-looking shine. Using it as an overnight mask maximizes this benefit.
Manageability
Overnight conditioning smooths the cuticle for more manageable, easy to style hair with less breakage and knots.
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Stronger Hair | More time to repair bonds |
| Reduced Frizz | Restores moisture balance |
| Easier Detangling | Smooths and strengthens hair |
| Softness | Deeply moisturizes |
| More Volume | Lightens and lifts hair |
| Shininess | Seals cuticle |
| Manageability | Smooths cuticle |
How to Use Olaplex 3 Overnight
Using Olaplex No. 3 overnight is a simple process:
Prep Hair
Start with clean, damp hair. Shampoo and towel dry as normal before applying Olaplex. This allows it to fully penetrate the hair shaft.
Divide Hair
Separate hair into sections using clips. This ensures the product is distributed evenly from root to ends.
Apply Product
Apply a generous amount of Olaplex No. 3 from roots to ends in each section, massaging to coat hair thoroughly. Use the entire bottle for thick or long hair.
Cover Hair
Put your hair in a shower cap or wrap your head in plastic wrap after application to contain the product and allow it to penetrate.
Leave In Overnight
Keep Olaplex 3 in for a minimum of 10 hours and up to overnight. Get the full benefits by letting it work while you sleep.
Rinse Out in Morning
Rinse Olaplex 3 out thoroughly with cool water in the morning. Be sure to rinse until the water runs clear.
Shampoo and Condition
Follow up with a gentle shampoo and conditioner. Avoid using harsh sulfates that might strip the hair.
Style as Usual
After rinsing, style and dry your hair as normal. Repeat the overnight Olaplex treatment once a week or as needed.
Downsides of Leaving Olaplex 3 in Too Long
While Olaplex 3 is generally safe to use overnight, there are some potential downsides of leaving it in too long:
Product Buildup
Like any hair product, leaving Olaplex 3 in too long may result in residue buildup on the hair over time. Make sure to shampoo thoroughly after rinsing.
Scalp Irritation
Product sitting on the scalp all night could lead to itchiness or irritation in some cases. Be sure to apply only to hair lengths.
Greasy Hair
Too much time with the thick, creamy Olaplex formula may leave hair feeling greasy or weighed down. Adjust treatment times as needed.
Limp Roots
Overconditioning roots can make them fall flat. Focus more on conditioning mid-lengths and ends.
Hydration Overload
Those with fine hair may find too much moisture overload leads to a limp, fragile texture if left on too long.
Damage From Manipulation
Repeatedly clipping and unclipping hair to apply the product through the night may damage the hair. Handle gently.
| Downside | Cause |
|---|---|
| Product Buildup | Leaving in too long |
| Scalp Irritation | Prolonged contact |
| Greasy Hair | Overconditioning |
| Limp Roots | Overconditioning roots |
| Hydration Overload | Too much moisture |
| Damage from Manipulation | Repeated handling |
Who Should Not Leave Olaplex 3 in Overnight
While generally safe, some people may want to avoid leaving Olaplex 3 in for extended periods or overnight:
– Those with fine, limp, or easily weighed down hair
– People very prone to oily hair and roots
– Anyone experiencing skin irritation or itching from the product
– Individuals with many sensitivities or allergies
– Damaged or porous hair that absorbs too much moisture easily
– Very processed or over-bleached hair that needs protein more than moisture
– Children under 12 years old without guidance
Use your best judgement based on your unique hair condition and texture when deciding on treatment times. Erring on the side of less time is better if in doubt.
Tips for Using Olaplex 3 Overnight
To optimize your overnight Olaplex 3 treatment:
– Ensure hair is freshly shampooed before applying
– Focus on mid-lengths and ends more than roots
– Use a shower cap or wrap hair to contain product
– Rinse thoroughly in the morning to remove residue
– Follow with a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner
– Adjust treatment times as needed for your hair
– Give hair a break between treatments to avoid overprocessing
– Deep condition with moisture masks in between uses
– Don’t overlap other chemical treatments on the same day
– Apply light, hydrating layers in the morning for best results
What to Expect After an Overnight Olaplex Treatment
Many report the following results after keeping Olaplex No. 3 in overnight:
– Noticeably stronger, healthier hair
– Increased shine and manageability
– Minimized frizz and flyaways
– Smoother hair texture and ends
– More defined, springy curls
– Easier, faster detangling
– Less breakage when brushing or styling
– More volume, bounce, and movement
– Restored moisture balance and hydration
– Sealed cuticles for increased softness
However, results depend on your individual hair needs and can vary. Damaged hair is likely to see the most dramatic effects. Continued regular use helps prolong the results.
How Often Can You Use Olaplex 3 Overnight?
Most sources recommend using Olaplex No. 3 as an overnight conditioning treatment no more than 1-2 times per week.
Using it every night is generally excessive and may lead to overprocessing. Those with damaged hair can aim for the higher end of the range, while fine or normal hair likely only needs once a week use.
Listen to your hair’s needs and adjust as necessary. Many find once a week or every 10-14 days ideal for maintaining stronger, shinier hair long-term without going overboard.
Olaplex 3 Treatment Schedule
| Hair Type | Overnight Use Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Fine/Normal | Once per week max |
| Medium/Thick | 1-2 times per week |
| Curly/Coily | 1-2 times per week |
| Dry/Damaged | 1-2 times per week |
| Color Treated | 1-2 times per week |
Alternatives to Leaving Olaplex Overnight
If leaving Olaplex 3 in all night doesn’t fit your schedule or preferences, consider these alternative application times:
– **10 minutes:** The minimum recommended processing time. Great for less damaged hair.
– **20-30 minutes:** Allows the product to penetrate into the hair shaft sufficiently for most hair types.
– **1-2 hours:** Provides more intensive conditioning for very dry or porous hair.
– **During another activity:** Keep it in while cleaning, cooking, working out, etc. Rinse when done.
– **Under a hooded dryer:** The heat helps the product absorb more quickly in less time.
– **Heating cap:** Use a warming cap to boost penetration. Leave on for 30 mins to an hour.
– **Before washing:** Apply it before your shower and rinse out when washing your hair.
Conclusion
Overall, leaving Olaplex No. 3 in your hair overnight is generally safe for most hair types. The extended processing time allows the bond-repairing active ingredient to penetrate deeper into the hair, leading to improved strength, hydration, and manageability.
However, overusing Olaplex and leaving it in too long can also have downsides like greasiness or limpness. Pay attention to your individual hair’s needs. Damaged and curly hair tends to benefit most from maximizing the overnight treatment to a few times a week, while fine or healthy hair likely only requires occasional use.
When used properly, an overnight Olaplex 3 hair mask can help rebuild your hair’s bonds and structure for your healthiest, shiniest strands yet.