Sali Hughes Reviews New Three-Minute Hair Repair Treatment
For years, the beauty industry insisted that cutting was the only solution for damaged hair, but a decade ago, Olaplex changed the game with its innovative bonding technology. Using a patented ingredient called bis-aminopropyl diglycol dimaleate, it strengthens and rebuilds hair bonds damaged by bleach, colour, and heat treatments. Sali Hughes, a renowned beauty expert, initially resisted such products due to their time-consuming nature, but a new release has won her over.
The Evolution of Hair Bond Repair
Olaplex's original hero product, No3, required a 20-30 minute pre-wash application on wet hair, leading many, including Hughes, to avoid it despite its proven results. Hairdressers and clinical trials praised its effectiveness, sparking a trend with rival brands launching similar products. However, the inconvenience often outweighed the benefits for busy individuals.
The breakthrough came with Olaplex's No3 Plus, priced at £32, which slashes the treatment time to just three minutes. Hughes describes it as a game-changer for her fine, bleach-damaged hair, allowing her to shampoo, apply the cream, handle other shower tasks, and rinse without the hassle. After three months of use, she reports significant improvements in hair strength and health, making compliance effortless compared to neglect.
Alternative Options for Different Preferences
For those who enjoy longer self-care rituals, 98 Beauty's Hydra Bond Hydrating Masque offers a luxurious alternative. Priced at £35, this British-formulated mask uses bond-strengthening proteins and natural oils with a lingering fragrance. It requires 20 minutes to work, making it ideal for bath nights paired with a podcast.
Meanwhile, Living Proof's Triple Bond Complex caters to individuals with no spare shower time. At £45, it's applied to damp hair and activated by blow-dryer heat, requiring no pre-wash or rinse. This makes it the lowest-effort option for bond repair on the market.
Hughes emphasizes that these advancements invalidate the old belief that cutting is necessary for hair repair, providing effective solutions for various lifestyles and preferences.
