Olaplex and Ouai Hair Oil are 2 of the best hair oils out there, but which one is the best? I tried both, let’s find out the winner.
I tested both of them side by side on my fine, frizz-prone hair.
If you’re debating whether to buy the Olaplex No.7 Bonding Oil or Ouai Hair Oil, this review is for you. I have used both for 3 months on my hair.
I’ll break down what they’re like to use, how they performed, what worked best (and when), and who I think should buy which one.
- READ NEXT: I Tried Olaplex Vs Ouai. This Is The Better Choice 🧴 (all products)
What I Tested: Olaplex vs Ouai Hair Oil
Here’s what I used over the course of three weeks:
Olaplex No.7 Bonding Oil
- Lightweight styling oil
- Heat protection up to 450°F (232°C)
- Contains Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate (Olaplex’s bond-building molecule)
Ouai Hair Oil
- Multi-use hair oil with African galanga, ama oil, and Asian borage oils
- Adds shine, smooths frizz, and protects color
- Has Ouai’s signature floral scent (it’s strong but luxe!)
My Experience: Olaplex vs Ouai Hair Oil on Fine Hair
Week 1–2: Olaplex Hair Oil
I used Olaplex No.7 Bonding Oil after every wash, applying 2–3 drops to damp hair and one drop after blow-drying to tame flyaways.
What I loved:
- Featherlight. No grease or heaviness
- Left my hair shiny but natural-looking
- Helped reduce breakage over time
- Great when combined with other Olaplex products
What I didn’t love:
- Took a bit longer to see the shine payoff
- Doesn’t fully smooth frizz unless layered with cream or serum
💬 My Thoughts: “Olaplex No.7 smells amazing, like cotton candy & jasmine. A little bit goes a long way, and my hair didn’t feel greasy at all.”
Week 3: Ouai Hair Oil
Ouai’s oil felt more like a glam styling product. I used it the same way, on damp hair before blow-drying, and a drop after styling.
What I loved:
- My hair looked immediately glossy
- It smells incredible…like luxury perfume
- Gave more visible frizz control, especially on humid days
- Doubled as a finisher for sleek ponytails
What I didn’t love:
- A little goes a long way, too much = greasy
- Scent may be overpowering for scent-sensitive users
💬 My Thoughts: “Ouai’s hair oil smells very strong, like perfume. It has a mix of floral gardenia & white musk. It helped with damage, smooths split ends and frizz, but it’s a shame it smells quite overwhelming.”
Key Differences Between Olaplex and Ouai Hair Oil
- Olaplex No.7 has a single-note smell, and helps with repair & frizz, while giving you shine.
- Ouai Hair Oil can smell quite overwhelming, but helps with damage and smoothes split ends.
- Both are silicone-based, but Ouai includes natural oils; Olaplex leans more clinical.
Comparison Table: Olaplex vs Ouai Hair Oil
| Feature | Olaplex No.7 Bonding Oil | Ouai Hair Oil |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | Bond repair + heat protection | Frizz control + instant shine |
| Texture | Very lightweight, almost invisible | Richer texture, silky finish |
| Scent | Mild, barely noticeable | Strong floral-luxe scent |
| Best For | Strengthening, heat styling protection | Glossy styles, frizz-prone, thick or wavy hair |
Choose Olaplex if you want salon-worthy hair (my personal winner) 🏆
Choose Ouai if you want frizz-free hair that smells like perfume.
Honest TikTok Video Reviewing Olaplex Bonding Oil Vs Ouai Hair Oil
Pros and Cons: Olaplex vs Ouai Hair Oil
Olaplex No.7 Bonding Oil Pros
- Protects against heat (up to 450°F)
- Strengthens and repairs damaged hair
- Won’t weigh down fine hair
- Adds subtle shine without buildup
Olaplex Cons
- Less noticeable shine immediately
- Requires consistent use for best results
- Pricier per mL
Ouai Hair Oil Pros
- Gives instant gloss and softness
- Smells luxurious
- Controls frizz effectively
- Works well for sleek styles and ponytails
Ouai Cons
- Strong scent (may not be for everyone)
- Can feel heavy on fine hair if overused
- Less focus on repair
- MORE ON OLAPLEX: Olaplex vs K18: I Tested Both on My Hair. Here’s What Actually Works
FAQs: Olaplex vs Ouai Hair Oil
Which is better: Olaplex or Ouai Hair Oil?
It depends on your hair goals. Olaplex is better for repair and heat protection, while Ouai is ideal for shine and styling.
Can I use Olaplex and Ouai Hair Oil together?
You can, but it’s usually best to choose one depending on your hair type and needs. If combining, use Olaplex before heat styling and Ouai after styling for shine.
Are they both safe for color-treated hair?
Yes! Both are color-safe and help protect hair health. Olaplex goes deeper with bond repair, while Ouai helps maintain smoothness and shine.
Which hair oil is better for fine hair?
Olaplex, hands down. It’s lightweight, absorbs quickly, and doesn’t leave residue. Ouai is best used sparingly on fine hair to avoid greasiness.
Shop Olaplex bonding oil here.
Final Verdict: Which Hair Oil Should You Use?
If your hair is damaged, color-treated, or regularly heat styled, go with Olaplex No.7. It’s subtle but effective and offers long-term results.
But if you want gorgeous shine and frizz control instantly, especially for events or styling days, Ouai Hair Oil is your new go-to.
Personally, I keep both in rotation:
- Olaplex before heat tools
- Ouai when I want the “glass hair” look or polished ends
Written by Ayla Rodriguez, Hair & Beauty Editor at Surge of Style
Email: marketing@surgeofstyle.com
This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through my links, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Prices correct at time of publication.
