OGX Bonding Plex vs Olaplex (The Definitive Guide)

Welcome back, ladies! Today we're taking a deep dive into the haircare world to compare two powerhouses: OGX Bonding Plex Leave-In Treatment and Olaplex No.6 Bond Smoother.

These two popular leave-in hair treatments have been buzzing in beauty circles, so we're going to cut through the noise and dissect their ingredients - in the name of science!

This post contains affiliate links; as an Amazon Associate we earn commission from qualifying purchases.

OGX Bonding Plex vs Olaplex No.6 Leave-In Treatments

When we examine the ingredients side by side, it becomes apparent that both products harness the power of polymers boasting amino properties, namely Amodimethicone and Cystine Bis-PG-Propyl Silanetriol in OGX Bonding Plex and Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate in Olaplex No.6.

Why are these amino polymers so beneficial for hair repair? Amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, play a vital role in hair strength and resilience. By incorporating amino-acid-rich polymers, these products are designed to mend hair strands at a molecular level (specifically the disulfide bonds which give your hair its elasticity and strength) and deliver significant restoration.

Both products go a step further by featuring Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein PG-Propyl Silanetriol. This vegetable-derived protein forms a protective barrier on the hair, aiding moisture retention and creates a resilient surface, ideal for frequent styling.

However, Olaplex goes even further by incorporating a host of additional nourishing ingredients, including Gigartina Stellata Extract, Chondrus Crispus (Carrageenan) Extract, Sunflower Seed Oil, Coconut Oil, and Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice. Each of these ingredients brings unique benefits, from hydrating the hair to providing essential nutrients and antioxidants:

Gigartina Stellata, a type of red algae, is known for its powerful moisturizing and antioxidant properties, while Carrageenan Extract can help improve hair texture and shine. The blend of oils, including Sunflower, Coconut, and Grape Seed Oil, provide essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants that can help nourish and protect hair. Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice is known for its soothing and moisturizing properties, and Panthenol, a form of vitamin B5, is well-regarded for its ability to improve hair elasticity and moisture retention.

These extras alone might be enough to sway most of us in favor of Olaplex, but there's a couple more points of note that we ought to explore before finalizing our decision. At the top of the list is the point of Olaplex's bond-repairing molecule (and the No.6 Bond Smoother itself) being silicone-free, meaning you can avoid that unpleasant 'build-up' associated with most treatments. OGX's Bonding Plex is, unfortunately, not silicone-free.

The next key difference arises when we consider their availability. OGX Bonding Plex, although still available at select retailers for the time being, has been officially discontinued. Olaplex, meanwhile, continues to line shelves up and down the country!

Finally: pricing. Olaplex is more than double the cost per fluid ounce relative to OGX, which is why OGX is often hailed as a 'dupe' for Olaplex.

So, is OGX Bonding Plex a Dupe for Olaplex?

Now, let's address the million-dollar question that's on everyone's mind: Is OGX Bonding Plex actually a 'dupe' for Olaplex?

Well, ladies, it's a bit of a mixed bag. If we're talking about the basics – repairing and protecting those precious locks with some good old amino magic – then, yes, both treatments get a gold star. OGX Bonding Plex and Olaplex No.6 both have those nifty amino-infused ingredients that our hair just adores.

However, just like in one of those juicy romantic novels, there's always more to the story when you dig a little deeper. Let's be real: Olaplex No.6 is like that overachiever we all secretly admire – it doesn't just settle for the basics. It brings to the table a whole host of extra goodies like red algae, carrageenan extract, a buffet of beneficial oils, and soothing aloe leaf juice, which OGX simply doesn't.

Plus, let's not forget about the silicones. While they can make your hair feel as smooth as a satin sheet, some people find that over time, they lead to product buildup. And nobody wants that, right? That's where Olaplex strides ahead – its formula is silicone-free, meaning your hair can drink up all its goodness without the fear of unwanted residue.

Then we've got the availability issue. Unfortunately, our pal OGX Bonding Plex has hit its sunset years and is officially discontinued. So while you might still find it popping up here and there, it's definitely not as easy to get your hands on as the readily available Olaplex.

Lastly, let's talk about the price tag. Yes, Olaplex is pricier – there's no skirting around that. But just remember that old saying "you get what you pay for." With Olaplex, you're investing in a long-lasting, silicone-free formula packed with luxurious extras.

So, is OGX Bonding Plex a true dupe for Olaplex? Well, while they share some hair-loving features, they're kind of like cousins rather than twins. OGX is a great wallet-friendly option that still gives your hair some TLC. But if you're after that all-singing, all-dancing, treat-yourself kind of hair experience, Olaplex No.6 might just be worth splashing out on. At the end of the day, your hair deserves the best, and only you can decide what that means for you!