How to Use Olaplex No.4 Shampoo and No.5 Conditioner for Healthier Hair

If your hair is dry, damaged, color-treated, or prone to breakage, Olaplex No.4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo and Olaplex No.5 Bond Maintenance Conditioner are designed to help repair and strengthen it. These products work by rebuilding broken bonds in the hair caused by heat styling, coloring, and environmental damage.
Using them correctly helps you get the best results. Here is a simple step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Thoroughly Wet Your Hair
Start by fully saturating your hair with warm water. Warm water helps open the hair cuticle slightly so the shampoo can cleanse effectively.
Make sure the scalp and the full length of your hair are completely wet before applying shampoo.
Step 2: Apply a Small Amount of Olaplex No.4 Shampoo
Olaplex No.4 is highly concentrated, so a small amount is usually enough.
Dispense a dime- to quarter-sized amount into your palm.
Rub your hands together to distribute the product.
Apply mainly to the scalp and roots.
Focus on massaging the scalp with your fingertips to lift oil, dirt, and product buildup.
Step 3: Work the Lather Through the Lengths
Once the shampoo begins to lather at the scalp, gently work the foam through the mid-lengths and ends of your hair.
Avoid aggressively scrubbing the ends since they are the most fragile part of the hair.
Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse your hair completely with warm water until no shampoo remains. Leaving residue can make hair feel heavy or dull.
If your hair is very oily or has a lot of product buildup, you may repeat the shampoo step.
Step 5: Apply Olaplex No.5 Conditioner
After rinsing out the shampoo:
Squeeze excess water from your hair.
Apply a small amount of conditioner to your hands.
Work the conditioner through the mid-lengths and ends.
Avoid applying large amounts directly to the scalp, especially if your hair is fine or tends to get oily.
Step 6: Let It Sit for Maximum Repair
Leave the conditioner in your hair for 2–3 minutes. This allows the bond-building ingredients to penetrate the hair shaft and provide repair and moisture.
For very dry or damaged hair, leaving it on slightly longer can provide additional conditioning.
Step 7: Rinse with Cool Water
Rinse thoroughly with cool or lukewarm water. Cooler water helps smooth the hair cuticle, which can make hair appear shinier and reduce frizz.
Optional: Follow with Additional Olaplex Treatments
For deeper repair, many people use these products alongside other treatments in the line, such as:
A pre-wash bond treatment
A leave-in repair cream
A bonding hair oil for shine and protection
Using a full routine can help maintain stronger, healthier hair over time.
Tips for Best Results
Use only a small amount because the formula is concentrated.
Focus shampoo on the scalp, conditioner on the ends.
Use 2–3 times per week or as needed depending on your hair type.
Pair with heat protection if you frequently style with hot tools.
Final Thoughts
Consistent use of Olaplex No.4 Shampoo and No.5 Conditioner can help improve the strength, softness, and manageability of damaged or chemically treated hair. By focusing on proper application and allowing the conditioner time to work, you can maximize the bond-repairing benefits and maintain healthier hair over time.