No.0 Intensive Bond Building Treatment
No.0 Intensive Bond Building Treatment
Product Description
Product overview
A highly concentrated, professional-inspired bond building primer that prepares hair for deeper repair. Featuring the highest concentration of Olaplex's patented Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate of any at-home product, it rebuilds disulfide bonds at a molecular level to strengthen, repair, and protect hair integrity. Designed as step one in a two-part system with No.3 Hair Perfector.
Patented Bond Building Technology
Contains the highest concentration of Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate of any Olaplex at-home product, rebuilding broken disulfide bonds at the molecular level.
Texture & feel
SENSORYPatented Bond Building Technology
Contains the highest concentration of Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate of any Olaplex at-home product, rebuilding broken disulfide bonds at the molecular level.
68% More Repair
Clinically proven to deliver 68% more repair when used as a three-part system with No.3 and No.4, plus 3x stronger hair in just one use.
Primes for Deeper Repair
Works as a repair booster that primes and saturates hair before No.3, allowing the follow-up treatment to penetrate more effectively.
65% Less Breakage
Clinically demonstrated to reduce breakage by 65% when used alongside No.4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo, protecting against future damage.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. The ultra-minimal 4-ingredient formula is free from known pregnancy-concerning chemicals. Always consult your healthcare provider for individual guidance.
Formula contains no ferments, fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, or oils that feed malassezia yeast. Safe for those prone to fungal acne on the scalp.
With only 4 ingredients and no oils, waxes, or pore-clogging agents, this formula scores 0 on the comedogenic scale. Will not clog pores or cause breakouts along the hairline.
Formulated to be safe for all color-treated, chemically processed, and keratin-treated hair. Will not strip or fade hair color.
Does not contain protein, making it suitable for protein-sensitive hair that tends to become stiff or brittle with protein-based treatments.
Olaplex No.0 is not designed to be used alone. It is a primer that works best as step one in a two-part system with No.3 Hair Perfector for optimal repair results.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSWater (Aqua/Eau)Base
Purified water serves as the solvent and delivery vehicle for the active bond-building ingredient, providing the lightweight liquid consistency that allows even distribution through hair.
- Function: Solvent and carrier for the active ingredient
- Benefit: Enables the lightweight, watery texture that absorbs quickly into hair
Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate Highest Conc.Patented Active
Olaplex's patented, award-winning active ingredient. This small molecule seeks out and relinks broken disulfide bonds in the hair's cortex, which are responsible for hair strength, elasticity, and structure. This formula contains the highest concentration of this molecule of any Olaplex at-home product.
- Mechanism: Cross-links broken disulfide bonds via a maleic acid-based covalent bonding reaction
- Clinical Data: 68% more repair and 3x stronger hair when used with No.3 in a single use
- Unique: Works on all hair types regardless of texture, porosity, or damage level
PhenoxyethanolPreservative
A widely used, globally approved preservative with antimicrobial properties. Prevents bacterial and microbial growth in the water-based formula to maintain product safety and shelf stability.
- Safety: Approved for cosmetic use worldwide at concentrations up to 1%
- Note: Has been used in cosmetics since the 1950s with an excellent safety profile
Sodium BenzoatePreservative
A secondary preservative commonly used in both cosmetic and food products. Works synergistically with phenoxyethanol to inhibit mold and bacteria growth, extending the product's usable life.
- Safety: FDA-approved food and cosmetic preservative
- Function: Provides broad-spectrum antimicrobial protection
4 ingredients
Water (Aqua/Eau), Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate
Where it fits in your hair care routine
ROUTINEApply No.0 to dry hair as the very first step. Do not rinse before applying No.3. Use once a week, or 2–3x per week for severely damaged hair.
How to use
HOW TO USEApply to Dry Hair
Apply No.0 slowly to dry hair, distributing evenly from root to tip. Work into small sections by squeezing the liquid into the hair. Lightly saturate — hair should be damp, not drenched.
Let It Process
Leave on for 10 minutes. Do NOT rinse. The treatment needs time to penetrate the hair shaft and begin rebuilding broken bonds.
Apply No.3 Hair Perfector
Apply No.3 Hair Perfector directly over No.0 (without rinsing), combing through as needed for even distribution. Leave on for a minimum of 10 minutes.
Rinse, Shampoo & Condition
Rinse thoroughly, then shampoo and condition. For best results, use Olaplex No.4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo and No.5 Conditioner.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- Your hair is damaged from bleaching, coloring, or chemical treatments
- You experience breakage, split ends, or loss of elasticity
- You heat-style frequently with flat irons, curling irons, or blow dryers
- You already use Olaplex No.3 and want to amplify results
- Your hair feels dry, brittle, or straw-like
- You want a minimalist, clean-formula treatment
Consider alternatives if:
- Your hair is already healthy with minimal damage
- You want a standalone treatment (No.0 requires No.3)
- You prefer a faster treatment (K18 works in 4 minutes)
- You're on a tight budget — this adds an extra step and cost
- You want deep hydration or moisture (this focuses on structural repair)
Hair type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight watery formula adds zero weight. Strengthens fragile strands without heaviness or buildup. Ideal for fine hair prone to breakage.
Penetrates even dense, coarse strands effectively. Section hair carefully for full saturation. Dramatic results on heavily processed thick hair.
Restores elasticity and curl pattern integrity. Protein-free formula won't cause stiffness. Reduces breakage during detangling.
Specifically designed for chemically processed hair. Repairs bonds broken during coloring. Safe for highlights, balayage, and bleached hair.
Provides maintenance-level bond protection, but results are less dramatic on hair without significant damage. No.3 alone may be sufficient.
Results timeline
2+ MONTHSImmediate Softness & Smoothness
Hair feels noticeably softer, smoother, and more manageable after the first treatment. Improved detangling and reduced frizz, especially when used with No.3.
78% noticed softer hairVisible Strength & Reduced Breakage
With consistent weekly use, hair becomes visibly stronger with less breakage during brushing and styling. Improved elasticity and bounce, particularly in damaged areas.
65% reduction in breakageRestored Shine & Structure
Cumulative bond repair results in restored hair structure. Enhanced shine, improved curl pattern definition, and significantly healthier-looking hair from root to tip.
68% more repair vs. No.3 aloneLong-Term Hair Health Transformation
Continued use maintains and builds upon structural repair. Many users report their hair feels transformed — stronger, thicker-looking, and more resilient against future damage.
3x stronger hair reportedRatings by platform
38K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Dramatically amplifies No.3 results — noticeable difference when used together
- Ultra-minimal, clean 4-ingredient formula with no fillers
- Patented technology with real clinical data to back claims
- Lightweight formula that doesn't weigh down hair
- Works on all hair types, textures, and porosity levels
- Protein-free — safe for protein-sensitive hair
- Reduces breakage and improves hair elasticity
- Color-safe and suitable for chemically treated hair
Criticized
- Must be paired with No.3 — not effective as a standalone treatment
- Nozzle design can waste product and cause dripping
- Bottle only lasts 3–6 uses depending on hair length and density
- Some users see little difference versus using No.3 alone
- 20+ minute total treatment time (10 min No.0 + 10 min No.3)
- Watery formula can run into eyes and onto face
- Price per use is high for the amount of product you get
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESUses citric acid (12%) for bond strengthening instead of Olaplex's patented molecule. Significantly cheaper but works on a different bond mechanism. Good entry-level option for mild damage.
Uses a triple molecular weight protein system for bond repair. Much more affordable alternative with good user reviews, though it lacks Olaplex's patented disulfide bond technology.
Uses citric acid, taurine, and maleic acid complex. Offers immediate softness and pH balancing. Larger bottle with more uses. Many users report comparable results to Olaplex for everyday damage.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEOlaplex No.0
Epres Bond Repair Treatment
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep upright to avoid leaking from nozzle.
Squeeze bottle with precision stream nozzle for targeted application
Yes — 155ml is over 100ml TSA limit, so consider decanting for carry-on travel. Checked luggage is fine.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, Olaplex No.0 is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula contains only 4 ingredients, none of which are known pregnancy-concerning chemicals (no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, formaldehyde, or chemical sunscreens). It is free from parabens, phthalates, and sulfates. However, as with any product, consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Yes, Olaplex No.0 is fungal acne safe. The ultra-minimal formula contains no ferments, fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, or oils that feed malassezia yeast. With only 4 ingredients — water, the active bond builder, and two preservatives — there is nothing in this formula that triggers or worsens fungal acne.
Olaplex No.0 is a hair treatment, not a skincare product, so it does not interact with skincare actives like retinol, vitamin C, AHA, or BHA. You can safely use any skincare routine alongside your Olaplex hair treatment. If any product runs onto your face during application, simply wipe it away.
Olaplex No.0 works on all hair types — fine, thick, straight, wavy, curly, and coily. It is especially beneficial for hair that has been damaged by bleaching, coloring, chemical processing, or excessive heat styling. Those with severely damaged hair will see the most dramatic results. Healthy, undamaged hair will still benefit but to a lesser degree.
Most users notice softer, smoother hair after the very first use. Significant improvements in strength, elasticity, and reduced breakage typically become apparent after 2–4 weekly treatments. For severely damaged hair, consistent use over 1–2 months delivers the most transformative results. Clinical studies show 68% more repair in a single use when combined with No.3.
Olaplex No.0 is always the very first step — applied to dry hair before anything else. After 10 minutes, apply No.3 Hair Perfector on top (without rinsing No.0). Leave No.3 for 10+ minutes, then rinse, shampoo with No.4, and condition with No.5. Use once weekly or 2–3 times per week for very damaged hair.
No, Olaplex No.0 has a comedogenic rating of 0/5. The formula contains no oils, waxes, silicones, or other pore-clogging ingredients. It is a watery liquid with only 4 clean ingredients. It is highly unlikely to cause breakouts along the hairline or forehead, though wiping away any product that drips onto skin is recommended.
Olaplex No.0 has a shelf life of 12 months after opening (12M PAO). The 155ml bottle typically lasts 3–6 applications depending on hair length, thickness, and density. Store upright in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain product integrity.
Verdict: Olaplex No.0 Intensive Bond Building Treatment is a genuinely effective bond repair primer backed by patented technology and real clinical data. Its ultra-minimal 4-ingredient formula is impressively clean, and when paired with No.3 Hair Perfector, the results speak for themselves — 68% more repair and 3x stronger hair. It excels for anyone with chemically treated, bleached, or heat-damaged hair. The main drawbacks are the small number of uses per bottle, the requirement to purchase No.3 separately, and a nozzle that can waste product. If your hair is severely damaged and you're committed to the full Olaplex system, No.0 is a worthwhile investment. For those with mild damage or seeking convenience, K18's 4-minute leave-in mask may be a better fit.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate
Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 4 |
Phenoxyethanol
Fragrance, Preservative
|
|
|
| 3 |
Sodium Benzoate
Masking, Fragrance, Preservative, Anticorrosive
|
|