Olaplex No.3 vs No.8 – Which Treatment Is Right for You?
When it comes to restoring damaged hair, Olaplex leads the pack with its patented Bond Building Technology™. But with multiple at-home treatments in the range, it can be tricky to know which one suits your hair best.
If you're torn between Olaplex No.3 Hair Perfector and Olaplex No.8 Bond Intense Moisture Mask, we’re breaking down the key differences, benefits, and how to choose the right one for your hair goals.
🔬 The Science Behind Olaplex
Both No.3 and No.8 use Olaplex’s signature bis-aminopropyl diglycol dimaleate molecule, which works by relinking broken disulfide bonds in the hair. These bonds break due to heat styling, colouring, chemical treatments, and environmental damage.
While both products repair damage, their primary functions and results differ.
💧 Olaplex No.3 Hair Perfector – The Bond Builder
Best for: Damaged, colour-treated, or over-processed hair
What it does:
Olaplex No.3 is a pre-shampoo treatment designed to repair the internal structure of the hair. It doesn’t add moisture or hydration—it focuses on strengthening and rebuilding from within.
Key Benefits:
Repairs broken hair bonds
Restores strength and elasticity
Reduces breakage and split ends
Ideal for all hair types
How to use:
Apply to damp hair before shampooing. Leave on for at least 10 minutes (or longer for deeper repair), then rinse, shampoo, and condition.
Olaplex No.3 Hair Perfector 100ml
💦 Olaplex No.8 Bond Intense Moisture Mask – The Hydrator
Best for: Dry, brittle, or lacklustre hair in need of moisture
What it does:
Olaplex No.8 is a post-shampoo treatment mask that delivers intense hydration, shine, and smoothness, while still repairing bonds. It combines the bond-building tech of Olaplex with deep conditioning ingredients.
Key Benefits:
Adds moisture and softness
Boosts shine and body
Smooths frizz and flyaways
Strengthens and hydrates in one step
How to use:
Apply to clean, damp hair after shampooing. Leave on for 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Use 1–2 times per week.
Olaplex No.8 Bond Intense Moisture Mask 100ml
🔄 Can You Use Olaplex No.3 and No.8 Together?
Yes—and they work beautifully together. Use No.3 first to repair, then follow with No.8 to hydrate and condition. This combo is especially helpful for chemically treated, heat-damaged, or dehydrated hair.
🆚 Olaplex No.3 vs No.8: Quick Comparison
Feature Olaplex No.3 Olaplex No.8 Main Focus Bond repair Moisture + bond repair Use Before/After Before shampoo After shampoo Hair Type All types, especially damaged Dry, brittle, frizzy Key Results Strength, resilience, less breakage Softness, shine, hydration Use With Other Olaplex Products Yes Yes
💡 So, Which One Should You Choose?
Choose Olaplex No.3 if your hair is damaged, bleached, or fragile, and you want to restore strength and reduce breakage.
Choose Olaplex No.8 if your hair is dry, dull, or frizzy, and you’re looking to boost hydration and shine.
Use both for the ultimate hair repair and hydration combo.
Whether you're rebuilding your hair from the inside or giving it a moisture boost, Olaplex has a treatment to match. No.3 and No.8 aren’t competitors—they’re teammates, each offering essential care depending on your hair’s unique needs.