So when I first started comparing Olaplex vs Redken, I wasn’t sure which would actually make a difference for my fine, fragile hair.
Both brands are backed by science, both are salon-trusted, and both promise damage repair but they go about it in very different ways.
So, I decided to test both brands head-to-head over the course of a few weeks, using the most popular products from each line. Let’s dive in!
The Products I Tested On My Hair: Olaplex vs Redken
To make this comparison thorough, I used the most recommended damage-repair products from each brand, no extra products, just these.
Olaplex Routine:
- Olaplex No.3 Hair Perfector (pre-wash treatment)
- Olaplex No.4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo
- Olaplex No.5 Bond Maintenance Conditioner
- I also tried Olaplex No.7 Bonding Oil – to add shine to my hair.
💡 READ NEXT: My Olaplex shampoo vs Ouai shampoo comparison
Redken Routine (Acidic Bonding Concentrate line):
- Redken Acidic Bonding Concentrate Shampoo
- Redken Acidic Bonding Concentrate Conditioner
- Redken Acidic Perfecting Leave-In Treatment
- I also tried Redken’s Extreme Lengths Mask once a week
Olaplex vs Redken: My Experience on Fine Hair
Week 1–2 Of Using Olaplex:
I’ve used Olaplex No.3 on and off for years, but committing to the full system reminded me why it’s a cult favorite. After two weeks:
- My hair felt stronger and looked smoother
- Breakage was reduced, especially around the crown
- It added weight and shine, but if I used too much conditioner or oil, it made my fine hair feel a little heavy
My Thoughts: “Olaplex gives me that internal strength and smoothness, but I do have to be careful not to overdo it with my fine hair.”
Shop The Olaplex Products I Recommend
Week 3–4: Using Redken
The Redken Acidic Bonding Concentrate system surprised me. I expected salon results, but not this quickly. After just one use, I noticed:
- Hair felt instantly softer and silkier
- I had more volume at the roots
- The leave-in made blow-drying quicker and left a glossy finish without heaviness
My Thoughts:“Redken made my hair extremely soft. My hair felt stronger but also weightless, exactly what my fine hair needed!”
Shop The Redken Products I Recommend
Key Differences: Olaplex vs Redken
How They Work
- Olaplex repairs hair at the disulfide bond level, making it great for deep structural repair (especially post-bleach or heat damage).
- Redken Acidic Bonding Concentrate strengthens hair using a pH-balancing, acidic formula with citric acid + protein for surface-level and internal repair.
Both target damage, but Redken offers immediate softness, while Olaplex builds strength gradually over time.
Is Redken Better Than Olaplex? A TikToker Gives Her Honest Opinion
Comparison Table: Olaplex vs Redken
| Feature | Olaplex | Redken |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | Rebuilds disulfide bonds | pH-balancing & protein repair with citric acid |
| Best For | Chemically processed, brittle hair | Dry, dull, or frizz-prone hair needing instant softness |
| Feel After Use | Smooth, strong, slightly heavier | Soft, silky, lightweight |
| Routine | Pre-treatment + 3-step system | Simple 3-step routine + leave-in |
Pros and Cons: Olaplex vs Redken
Olaplex Pros
- Scientifically proven bond repair
- Long-term strength improvement
- Great for bleach-damaged hair
Olaplex Cons
- Multiple steps
- Can weigh down fine hair
- Results take time
Redken Pros
- Instant softness and shine
- Lightweight, easy-to-use system
- Ideal for fine, dry, or frizzy hair
Redken Cons
- Not as targeted for internal bond repair
- May not be strong enough for severely damaged hair on its own
- Contains protein (not ideal for protein-sensitive hair)
FAQs: Olaplex vs Redken
Which is better for damaged hair: Olaplex or Redken?
If your hair is chemically processed or severely damaged, Olaplex may be better due to its bond-building technology. If you’re looking for instant softness and manageability, Redken is a great choice.
Can I use Olaplex and Redken together?
Yes! Use Olaplex No.3 as a weekly pre-treatment, then follow with Redken’s Acidic Bonding Shampoo + Conditionerfor hydration and pH balance.
Is Redken Acidic Bonding safe for color-treated hair?
Absolutely. It’s designed to protect color-treated hair and improve color retention while strengthening the strands.
Which is better for fine hair?
Redken. It delivers softness and strength without heaviness. Olaplex can sometimes feel too rich if overused on fine strands.
Final Verdict: Olaplex vs Redken – Which Should You Choose?
If you’re rebuilding your hair from bleach or chemical treatments, Olaplex is still the gold standard. It works slowly but effectively, especially with consistent use.
But if you want softer, silkier hair right away, without the weight or effort, Redken’s Acidic Bonding Concentrate line is an incredible alternative.
Personally, I’ve started rotating both:
- Olaplex once a week as a deep repair session
- Redken for my regular wash days to maintain softness and shine
My Other Related Haircare Reviews
- Olaplex vs K18: I Tested Both on My Hair. Here’s What Actually Works
- Olaplex Clarifying Shampoo vs Ouai Detox Shampoo: This Is The Winner
- 4 Best Products for Your Dyson Airwrap That Make Your Curls LAST
Written by Annabelle Williams, 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.
