Since launching in 2014 with their legendary, only-of-its-kind (at the time) bond-building technology, Olaplex has long reigned supreme. Aside from professional stylists, the brand has TikTok to thank for skyrocketing its likeness and spreading the good word about Olaplex buns. But now, bond-building technology within hair care products is bigger and better. Including more cult-followed brands like K18, Bondbar, Epres, and more. Bond-building hair care has become more of a standard versus a standalone. Lucky for us, we don’t have to be loyal to a single brand (or pricing), and in the spirit of the new year and your hair goals for 2023, we’re letting you in on the secrets of our favorite drugstore bond repair treatments. And yes, they’re as good as Olaplex. Shop these Olaplex alternatives below!
Bondbar #4 Bonding Shampoo
A bonding treatment for $10? Yes, please! This shampoo is actually part of an entire bonding system that has been said to reduce breakage by over 70%. Shop the whole system while you’re at it.
(Image Source: SallyBeauty.com)
Raw Sugar PRO Remedy Leave-In Bond Treatment
Raw Sugar isn’t just amazing for their body scrubs and washes. Their hair care line is no joke and smells divine. This leave-in treatment is 100% plant-based and vegan, smells like banana and coconut, and acts like a healing balm for your hair. Talk about the ultimate drugstore bond-repairing treatment.
(Image Source: RawSugarLiving.com)
Andrew Fitzsimons Virgin Repair Restructuring Shampoo
Celebrity hairstylists know a thing or two about repairing damaged hair. Take it from Andrew Fitzsimons, known for his work on celebs like Khloé Kardashian, JLO, and Britney Spears. “AF Bonding Technology helps build maximum strength from within by creating powerful hydrogen and ionic bonds inside the keratin hair structure which increases elasticity and flexibility,” says Fitzsimons of his line. This shampoo is full of ceramides to lift your hair back to life and let it be the softest it has ever been.
(Image Source: Ulta.com)
L’Oréal EverPure Sulfate-Free Bond Strengthening Conditioner
This $9 wonder strengthens hair inside and out by reinforcing any weak hair bonds. It’s gentle on color-treated hair, repairs current damage, and protects against future damage. Leave this in your hair for at least three minutes before rinsing to let it do its bond-repairing magic.
(Image Source: Ulta.com)
Anomaly Bonding Treatment Mask
This hair mask is a hidden gem within the beauty world. It’s $8 and can fix literally any hair issue. It’s a rich, intense repairing mask made with quinoa and vegetable proteins. Let this be your new “Olaplex Bun” product and leave it in while you clean your bedroom, run out for coffee, or watch a show.
(Image Source: Amazon.com)
Joico Defy Damage Protective Shampoo
Joico shampoo uses a protective lipid to prevent thermal, chemical, styling, and UV damage. This product also has moringa seed oil for hydration and shine and arginine, the bonding molecule that strengthens current bonds and encourages protection for new ones.
(Image Source: Ulta.com)
The INKEY List PCA Bond Repair Hair Treatment
If you haven’t tried The INKEY List’s hair care line, allow us to introduce you to one of our favorite products (next to the Salicylic Acid Exfoliating Scalp Treatment). The PCA treatment is actually a spray and it is so easy to use. Use about four to six sprays for fine hair and up to 10 for thicker strands. It will repair and strengthen to reduce frizz, split ends, and breakage.
(Image Source: TheInkeyList.com)
Twist Strengthen The Bond™ Bond-Strengthening Hair Mask for Curly Hair
Curly hair goes through a lot of styling and products to stay looking its best. Give it the TLC it needs with this bond repair mask from Twist. Use it from root to tip and watch your hair be visibly healthier after just one treatment.
