Olaplex No. 5 Conditioner Review: Does It Really Repair and Transform Damaged Hair?
When it comes to restoring damaged, over-processed, or frizzy hair, few products have achieved the cult status that Olaplex No. 5 Bond Maintenance Conditioner has. As part of the Olaplex professional hair care line, this conditioner claims to do more than just hydrate—it promises to repair internal hair bonds, strengthen weakened strands, and leave your hair looking shiny, soft, and frizz-free.
In this detailed review, we’ll dive into what makes Olaplex No. 5 so special, who it’s ideal for, how it performs, and whether it truly lives up to its promises.
What Is Olaplex No. 5?
Olaplex No. 5 Bond Maintenance Conditioner is a highly moisturizing, reparative conditioner designed to protect and repair damaged hair. It’s formulated with the brand’s patented bond-building technology, which works on a molecular level to re-link broken disulfide bonds in the hair caused by chemical, thermal, and mechanical damage.
The formula is:
- Free from DEA, Aldehydes, and Formaldehyde
- Safe for daily use
- Suitable for all hair types, including color-treated and chemically processed hair
This product is the third step in the at-home Olaplex routine, used after Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector and No. 4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo.
Key Ingredients and Technology
The core of Olaplex’s effectiveness lies in its Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate compound—a patented ingredient that works deep inside the hair structure to repair internal bonds. These bonds are what give your hair strength, elasticity, and overall health.
In addition to this, the formula is rich in:
- Panthenol (Vitamin B5) – for hydration and softness
- Grapeseed oil – to add shine and lock in moisture
- Avocado and sunflower oil extracts – for nourishment and frizz control
Real-World Use and Results
Texture & Application:
Olaplex No. 5 has a rich, creamy texture but feels lightweight on the hair. After shampooing with Olaplex No. 4, applying the conditioner feels luxurious. The recommended usage is a generous amount from scalp to ends, left on for about three minutes before rinsing.
Immediate Effects:
After the first few uses, users often report hair that feels:
- Noticeably softer
- Easier to detangle
- Smoother and more manageable
For very dry or color-treated hair, results can feel almost instant. The hair seems to drink up the moisture without feeling greasy or weighed down.
Long-Term Benefits:
With continued use (2–3 times per week or daily if needed), many users find:
- Reduced breakage
- Improved elasticity and bounce
- Less frizz, even in humid weather
- Stronger hair strands overall
The conditioner truly shines as a restorative treatment rather than just a moisturizing product.
Who Is It Best For?
Olaplex No. 5 is ideal for:
- Anyone with chemically treated, bleached, or colored hair
- Those using heat tools frequently
- Individuals with dry, brittle, or damaged hair
- Curly and textured hair types needing deep hydration and strength
- People looking to prevent future damage while maintaining shine
If your hair is already healthy, this conditioner might still be useful as a preventative treatment to maintain strength and shine—especially if you use color or heat styling.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Patented technology repairs broken hair bonds
- Softens, detangles, and adds visible shine
- Ideal for all hair types
- Clean formula free from harsh chemicals
- A little goes a long way
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to regular conditioners
- Best results when used with other Olaplex products (No. 3 & No. 4)
- May not provide instant “slip” for very curly hair on its own
Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?
Yes—Olaplex No. 5 Conditioner is absolutely worth it for anyone serious about hair repair and long-term strength. While the price may be a bit steep, the formula’s effectiveness, clean ingredients, and reparative technology make it a powerful investment in your hair health.
If you’re tired of dealing with breakage, dullness, or frizz, this conditioner can be the game-changer your routine needs.
