MISAKINO

I got a Sephora gift card for my birthday but didn't really need to restock on skincare or makeup. I'm not one to haul, so I thought about what products would be fun to try and write about in my blog. Enter, The INKEY List Tripeptide Plumping Balm.

THE INKEY LIST
Tripeptide Plumping Lip Balm Review

The INKEY List Tripeptide Plumping Lip Balm Review

INFO SHEET

Brand:  The INKEY List
Product: Tripeptide Plumping Lip Balm
Scent: Petroleum Jelly
Price:  $13.00
Where to Buy:  Sephora, The INKEY List

I love taking care of my skin, but for some reason I've always neglected my lips. It was just never at the top of my list even though thinning lips, lip lines, and wrinkles are all leading signs of aging. So why wouldn't I care for my lips? Then one day I stumbled upon this video by James Welsh on YouTube titled "The Truth AND LIES About The Inkey List’s Latest Launch" (I love his sass). It was interesting enough until Michelle from Lab Muffin Beauty Science chimed in towards the end of the video. I love Lab Muffin Beauty Science because she is a cosmetic chemist that really delves deep into skin care ingredients and how it all works (something I'm passionate about).

INGREDIENTS

Lab Muffin piqued my interest when she spoke about White Mustard Extract (aka Brassica Alba Sprout Extract) which was a new ingredient that I was unfamiliar with. Yeah yeah The INKEY List Tripeptide Plumping Lip Balm has hyaluronic acid and tripeptides, but tell me more about this White Mustard Extract. It seemingly irritates the lips more gently in comparison to capsaicin and "... when you have that irritation, it'll increase blood circulation which makes your lips look redder, and it also makes them swell up a bit with water..."

Awesome! A new ingredient to try that will get me in the habit of applying lip balm, with the added benefit of hyaluronic acid and tripeptides. Let's take a more detailed look into this ingredients list:

Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Hydroxystearic/Linolenic/Oleic Polyglycerides, Glyceryl Rosinate, Theobroma Grandiflorum (Cupuaçu) Seed Butter, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Candelilla Cera, Mangifera Indica (Mango) Seed Butter, Orbignya Oleifera (Babassu) Seed Oil, Squalane, Cetearyl Ethylhexanoate, Hydrogenated Olive Oil, Salvia Hispanica (Chia) Seed Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glyceryl Behenate, Olea Europaea (Olive) Oil Unsaponifiables, Tribehenin, Sorbitan Isostearate, Tocopherol, Portulaca Pilosa Extract, Trihydroxystearin, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Sucrose Cocoate, Brassica Alba Sprout Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38, Glucomannan.

Notable Ingredients:

Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil - This fatty acid rich ingredient helps bind water to the skin.
Theobroma Grandiflorum (Cupuaçu) Seed Butter - Improves hydration, elasticity, and firmness.
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter - Skin-soothing ingredient that helps mitigate damage from free radicals due to it's high antioxidant content.
Mangifera Indica (Mango) Seed Butter - Improves hydration, elasticity, and smoothness
Orbignya Oleifera (Babassu) Seed Oil - Provides skin smoothing and softening effects with added antioxidant benefits.
Squalane - Rich in antioxidants, this ingredient nourishes and smooths the skin while also helping support a healthy skin barrier.
Hydrogenated Olive Oil - Rich in antioxidants, improves hydration, and promotes a healthy skin barrier.
Salvia Hispanica (Chia) Seed Oil - Helps prevent water loss and has a soothing effect on the skin.
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride - Rich in fatty acids / antioxidants, this ingredient helps replenish the skin, provides a softening effect, and reduces moisture loss.
Glyceryl Behenate - Skin smoothing and softening.
Olea Europaea (Olive) Oil Unsaponifiables - Helps restore the skin barrier, suppleness, and elasticity while also preventing water loss.
Portulaca Pilosa Extract - Powerful anti-oxidant that helps smooth and repair the skin, increases collagen production, and has anti-inflammatory qualities.
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil - Reduces inflammation, supports skin barrier health, and is said to help boost the synthesis of ceramides.
Brassica Alba Sprout Extract - aka White Mustard Extract. Increases blood flow which results in a reddening effect.
Sodium Hyaluronate - aka Hyaluronic Acid. A very effective humectant that boosts the skin's moisture content, prevents dehydration, and preserves skin moisture.
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 - Peptide said to reduces fine lines and increase moisture in the skin.
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38 - Peptide said to reduces fine lines and wrinkles, improves dullness and uneven skin tone.
Glucomannan - Derived from the Konjac plant, this prebiotic nourishes the skin's microbiome resulting in wrinkle reduction, and an overall improvement of skin health.

Wow... I got a little annoyed with the above write up because there was just so much going on with this ingredients list, but in a GOOD way. With almost every ingredient, I told myself "Damnit I have to write about this too..." The INKEY List Tripeptide Plumping Balm is more of a very good skin care product but they are pushing the plumping effect angle more than anything else. A lot of these ingredients are really complementary which tells me a lot of thought was put into it. Anyone can slap together a capsaicin and shea butter solution, but this takes more skill.

COSDNA ALERTS

Plugging the above ingredients list into COSDNA reveals the following:

Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil - 1 out of 5 (Acne)
Ethylhexyl Palmitate - 1 out of 5 (Acne), 4 out of 5 (Irritant)
Squalane - 1 out of 5 (Acne)
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride - 1 out of 5 (Acne)
Sorbitan isostearate - 2 out of 5 (Acne)
Tocopherol - 2/3 out of 5 (Irritant), 2 out of 5 (Irritant)

There are a few triggers on this list for acne, but considering there are so many thickening agents within the ingredients list, I believe as long as it doesn't migrate away from the lips it should be okay. I'm not very concerned about the irritant aspect because that is kind of the point of the product... to cause irritation to cause a reddening and plumping effect.

BEFORE AND AFTER

The INKEY List Tripeptide Plumping Lip Balm Before and After

The instructions say to apply The INKEY List Tripeptide Plumping Lip Balm at least three times per day; so I have been applying with my morning skincare routine, reapplying after lunch, and then again with my evening routine. I really appreciated that this plumping lip balm has great staying power. When I go to bed and wake up several hours later, it is still very noticeable applied to my lips, which also made them very soft. It also didn't spread to anywhere else on my face. I've had so many lip balms in the past that just seem to evaporate; so this was a plus.

The above pictures show the before and after results for The INKEY List Tripeptide Plumping Lip Balm. One thing that I found particularly irritating with the before and after photos I found online is that the after photo often showed lips covered in the lip balm. I felt that if you are really going to compare apples to apples, you need to see if it truly did plump the lips or if the product applied is giving you the illusion of plumped lips. I've made it a point to show the after shot without the plumping lip balm applied.

Now, I think my lips are somewhat more plump than before, but not dramatically so. They do look healthier and hydrated. I also like how they are more pink because my normal lip color can appear quite dull. All in all I'm not sure that you will get the results that appear on the packaging.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Okay.. I like The INKEY List Tripeptide Plumping Balm, but the reason why might not be what you would expect. First, the ingredients list is excellent. There are so many skin nourishing, anti-oxidant rich, and anti-aging beneficial ingredients that even if it didn't have the advertised plumping effect it is STILL a good product. With that said, it TRICKS you into taking care of your lips by saying your lips will be plump if you apply this lip balm three times a day. I kind of think that psychological aspect of telling me this will plump my lips actually holds me accountable.

STORE	PRICE	OFFERS
Sephora	$13.00	Free Shipping
The INKEY List	$13.00	Free Shipping Orders $35+

I want to give it 3.5 stars as a lip plumper, because no you will absolutely not get the same effect that you would with a lip filler. I do however, like how it makes my lips more pink as they normally can appear quite dull in color. What bumps it into the four star category is if you review it from a skin care perspective, it is very good. Like I said before, anyone can make a capsaicin and shea butter lip balm, but this one is different.

Rating

This post may contain affiliate links to help support this blog.

None of these reviews sponsored, nor were any of the products provided for free (or even at a discount) by any affiliate.
Read full disclosure here.

Here are the swatches for Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation as well as a mini review. Today, we will be swatching shades 1C1 Cool Bone, 2N1 Desert Beige, 3N1 Ivory Beige, 4N1 Shell Beige, 5W1 Bronze, 6W1 Sandalwood, 7W1 Deep Spice, and 8N1 Espresso on my NC37 skin tone. Enjoy!

ESTÉE LAUDER
Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation Swatches

Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation Swatches

INFO SHEET

Brand: Estée Lauder
Product: Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation

Coverage:  High
Dewiness:  Matte
Scent: None
Oxidation:  YES! See Below.
Price:  $52.00
Where to Buy:  Amazon, Estée Lauder, ULTA

I don't wear foundation anymore, but when I received the above sample card for Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation in my latest ULTA order I couldn't wait to swatch them out for you all. Estée Lauder claims that this foundation is long wearing, transfer resistant, and waterproof with a matte finish. One thing that I really like about Estée Lauder's offering right off the bat is that they have about forty-four shades of this foundation to choose from. What a range!

The Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation Card includes Eight Samples

Now without further adieu, here are the Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation swatches for:

1C1 Cool Bone
2N1 Desert Beige
3N1 Ivory Beige
4N1 Shell Beige
5W1 Bronze
6W1 Sandalwood
7W1 Deep Spice
8N1 Espresso

SWATCH

Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation Swatches in Artificial Light

Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation Swatches in Natural Light

Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation Swatches in Direct Sunlight

Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation Water Test - Rinsed Under Hot Water

The Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation is truly full coverage and I was really impressed with it overall. To begin with, this foundation really stays put! I wanted to test the color transfer on a white t-shirt; so I placed a shirt over the swatches and rubbed it in to see if I could get a transfer. To my surprise, there was no residue remaining! I even wiped the cloth across my arm to see what would happen, and still no transfer!

Then I went to the kitchen sink and sprayed the swatches with hot water for about a minute to see if I could get them to budge. Still, NOTHING. This seems very promising to those with oily skin as the matte formula may be able to keep that oil at bay. I do want to note that the formula felt a bit dry on my arm after a while, so I do not think it would be very comfortable to wear for those whose skin leans dry.

There are a few caveats though. The Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation formula dries pretty quickly so you do have to work fast when applying. In addition to this, I noticed that the coverage on the darker shades (7W1 Deep Spice and 8N1 Espresso, specifically) seemed to apply thinner than it's lighter counterparts. With that said, I still believe that this is a great foundation overall.

FINAL THOUGHTS

I have to say that the Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation is a real work-horse, and it accomplishes all that it claims to do: It's long-wearing, transfer resistant, and waterproof. At $52 per ounce, I still don't believe that it will break the bank as a little really goes a long way. If you're someone like me who only wears makeup for special occasions, this foundation might be the one to have in your makeup arsenal (but, only if you have oily / combo-oily skin).

STORE	PRICE	OFFERS
Amazon	$40.00	Free Shipping
Estée Lauder	$52.00	Free Shipping Orders $45+
ULTA	$52.00	Free Shipping Orders $35+

Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation has about forty-two shades to choose from. While none of the shades above were really a great match for my NC37 skin tone, I do think that there might be a shade available out there for many of us.

This post may contain affiliate links to help support this blog.

None of these reviews sponsored, nor were any of the products provided for free (or even at a discount) by any affiliate.
Read full disclosure here.Tarte Cosmetics Estée Lauder Estée Lauder Estée Lauder Estée Lauder Estée Lauder

Since I have combination-oily skin I'm always interested in trying new products to help minimize the visibility of my pores. There are now nose pore patches that utilize the tried and true hydrocolloid technology to help suck up sebaceous filaments from the nose. Enter: Peach Slices Nose Pore Patches.

PEACH SLICES
Nose Pore Patches Review

Peach Slices Nose Pore Patches Review

INFO SHEET

Brand:  Peach Slices
Product: Nose Pore Patches
Scent: None
Price:  $9.99 per box (7 Patches)
Where to Buy:  Amazon, ULTA

I wish I had a story as to why I bought these, but I don't. I simply threw them in my cart because they were on sale. I do like the Biore Original Blackhead Remover Strips, but I felt that they can be damaging to the skin's moisture barrier if used too often (but they are highly effective!). I have also used the Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch Nose Pore Pimple Patches and they were okay... but these are cheaper.

Peach Slices Nose Pore Patch has a better design compared to Mighty Patch

The concept for the Peach Slices Nose Pore Patches are exactly the same as Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch Nose Pore Pimple Patches. It's a thinner hydrocolloid bandage that is shaped to fit your nose. If you're not familiar with hydrocolloid bandages, it's a type of first aid dressing that sticks to the skin and essentially absorbs moisture from a wound; or in this case the sebaceous filament from your nose. I do think that Peach Slices has a better overall patch design compared to Mighty Patch though, simply because you can peel it from the center making for easier application.

INGREDIENTS

There are no ingredients in the Peach Slices Nose Pore Patch other than Hydrocolloid. Hydrocolloid is typically made of gelatin, pectin, and sodium carboxymethylcellulose. This forms a gummy-feeling, breathable adhesive bandage that absorbs moisture when it comes in contact with wound exudate. These ingredients themselves should not directly cause any acne or irritation to the skin, however the act of removing the bandage can be somewhat painful and bothersome.

BEFORE AND AFTER

I guess I'm not going out for a while.

My nose looks worse lol.

The instructions for the Peach Slices Nose Pore Patches say to thoroughly cleanse and exfoliate the nose for best results; which is what I did. I waited about an hour after my shower to ensure that my nose was fully dry before applying. It also says to wear it for six to eight hours so I left it on overnight. At first it was a bit annoying to wear, but it didn't prevent me from falling asleep.

When I woke up in the morning, I couldn't wait to get this thing off my face. It just felt annoying leaving it on for so long. I slowly peeled the Peach Slices Nose Pore Patch off of my face, which was not as painful as the Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch Nose Pore Pimple Patches but I wish I could say that the results were better. It left noticeable wrinkles all around my nose which took over an hour to dissipate. I guess I'm not going anywhere for a while. It also didn't get my sebaceous filaments to absorb into the patch. They were indeed brought to the surface and made them much more noticeable. I'm sure if you followed up with an innisfree Pore Clearing Clay Mask it would clear it all up, but I don't have time for this nonsense.

FINAL THOUGHTS

I will not buy these again. Oh my goodness who has the time to wear a nose patch for six to eight hours, somewhat painful removal, and then wait for the marks to fade off of your nose; only to then be left with pores that are even more noticeable? Sorry but the Peach Slices Nose Pore Patches are just not for me.

STORE	PRICE	OFFERS
Amazon	$9.98 (7 Patches)	Free Shipping
ULTA	$9.99 (7 Patches)	Free Shipping Orders $35+

I hate writing negative reviews, but I also don't want my readers to waste their money. Just give me a Biore Original Blackhead Remover Strip and let me move on with my life.

Rating

This post may contain affiliate links to help support this blog.

None of these reviews sponsored, nor were any of the products provided for free (or even at a discount) by any affiliate.
Read full disclosure here.

MAC is just one of those brands that I don't really get much into. I'm more of a "no makeup, makeup" kind of person and MAC is pretty much the opposite of that. In addition to this, the few products I did try like the MAC Shape + Shade Brow Tint and the MAC Pro Longwear Fluidline Gel Eyeliner I ended up not liking at all. However, I've always heard great things about their lipsticks from friends and family. So with an open mind, I give you this mini review (with swatches!).

MAC
Lipstick Swatches

MAC Lipstick Swatches for Matte, Cream, and Lustreglass Sheer-Shine formulas

INFO SHEET

Brand: MAC
Product(s): Lipstick Matte in Shade Ruby Woo

Coverage:  High
Dewiness:  Matte
Scent: Sweet Peppermint
Staying Power:  Great
Price:  $21.00
Where to Buy:  Amazon, MAC Cosmetics, ULTA

Brand: MAC
Product(s): Lipstick Cream in Shade M·A·C Red

Coverage:  Medium - High
Dewiness:  Satin
Scent: Sweet Peppermint
Staying Power:  Good
Price:  $21.00
Where to Buy:  Amazon, MAC Cosmetics, ULTA

Brand: MAC
Product(s): Lustreglass Sheer-Shine Lipstick in Shade Cockney

Coverage:  Light - Medium
Dewiness:  Semi
Scent: Sweet Peppermint
Staying Power:  Poor
Price:  $24.00
Where to Buy:  Amazon, MAC Cosmetics, ULTA

I can't remember where I got this sample palette, but it was probably from one of those ULTA orders where you get a 10 Piece Sample Set with Order of $75+ (or was it Sephora...?). The sole reason I bother getting these samples is because I truly enjoy sharing the results with you all. My colleagues also love it because the products that don't make it for review are often given to them 😁. Even though I don't wear a lot of lipstick, I was thrilled to give these a try.

Gotta love when you get samples with your order.

SWATCH

MAC Lipstick Swatches in Artificial Light: Ruby Woo | MAC Red | Cockney

MAC Lipstick Swatches in Natural Light: Ruby Woo | MAC Red | Cockney

FINAL THOUGHTS

I'm REALLY not a lipstick gal as I much prefer stains (right now I am loving FENTY BEAUTY's Poutsicle Hydrating Lip Stain in Mai Type), but I think I would actually buy one of these. Let's start from the top:

MAC LIPSTICK MATTE - RUBY WOO

The shade is Ruby Woo and I must say... when I first put it on I audibly said "wow" because of the color and formula. It's a matte lipstick but that's only in appearance. It applies like a dream and is actually quite hydrating. I wore a while and not once did my lips feel dry. It is very highly pigmented and doesn't transfer too much. I think it could even last through a meal, but if you eat something oily then you would of course have to reapply. In addition to this, the MAC Lipstick Matte in Ruby Woo shade is this lovely red with slightly cool undertones. It made me feel like a celebrity. I just can't get over the color. It also smells really nice. Oh my goodness I might go buy it...

STORE	PRICE	OFFERS
Amazon	$19.95	Free Shipping
MAC Cosmetics	$21.00	Free Shipping Orders $35+; 10% Off with Email Signup
ULTA	$21.00	Free Shipping Orders $35+

Rating

MAC LIPSTICK CREAM - M·A·C RED

Why is this so hard?! I like this one too! M·A·C Red is more of a true red when compared to Ruby Woo, and it also looks great against my skin tone. It has the same pleasant scent as the matte formula, but of course is buttery smooth. I think if you have very dry lips this one would feel a lot more pleasant to wear. I did find it to be quite comfortable when wearing for long periods of time. Since the formula is more hydrating compared to the matte, that also means an increased amount of color transfer. I don't think it would particularly last through most meals so re-application would be a given. That said, it is highly pigmented and just an all around beautiful lipstick to wear. If M·A·C Red Lipstick Cream comes in a set with the MAC Lipstick Matte in Ruby Woo I am going to fall out of my chair.

STORE	PRICE	OFFERS
Amazon	$17.00	Free Shipping
MAC Cosmetics	$21.00	Free Shipping Orders $35+; 10% Off with Email Signup
ULTA	$21.00	Free Shipping Orders $35+

Rating

MAC LUSTREGLASS SHEER-SHINE LIPSTICK - COCKNEY

My wallet is thanking me for this one, because I didn't care for the MAC Sheer-Shine Lipstick at all. Don't get me wrong, the Cockney shade is stunning, but it applies patchy because of the formula. It actually feels quite oily, and now that I am checking the ingredients... yep castor seed oily is pretty high up on the list. It reminds me of a tacky lip gloss - which I hate wearing. I think that's what it is really.. a tinted lip gloss. Even after having it on for not even an hour I can't wait to wipe it off.

The product doesn't have great staying power and also transfers like crazy. It would probably need to be reapplied throughout the day, even if not eating or drinking. For some reason the MAC Sheer-Shine Lipstick is also more expensive than the matte or cream formulas! The are a few positives though. The Cockney shade does look great on the lips and makes you look more put together. I also found that when I removed it, my lips were left feeling very soft and smooth, but I think you can probably find something better that is more affordable.

STORE	PRICE	OFFERS
Amazon	$19.00	Free Shipping
MAC Cosmetics	$21.00	Free Shipping Orders $35+; 10% Off with Email Signup
ULTA	$24.00	Free Shipping Orders $35+

Rating

This post may contain affiliate links to help support this blog.

None of these reviews sponsored, nor were any of the products provided for free (or even at a discount) by any affiliate.
Read full disclosure here.

Here are the swatches for everyone's favorite concealer: Tarte Shape Tape. We will be swatching shades 16N Fair-Light Neutral, 29N Light-Medium, 36S Medium-Tan Sand, 47H Tan-Deep Honey, and 57S Rich Sand on NC37 skin tone. Enjoy!

TARTE
Shape Tape Concealer Swatches

Tarte Shape Tape Swatches on Light Medium Skin (NC37)

INFO SHEET

Brand: Tarte
Product: Shape Tape Concealer

Coverage:  High
Dewiness:  Matte
Scent: Very Subtle, Fresh
Oxidation:  YES! See Below.
Price:  $31.00
Where to Buy:  Amazon, Tarte Cosmetics, ULTA

I've reviewed Tarte Shape Tape Contour Concealer in the past and was very pleased with the results. Ultimately, I did move on from the product because I do not have a need for such full coverage. I currently use Clé de Peau's Radiant Corrector for Eyes (which I have reviewed here) because light coverage and a bit of hydration is better suited for my aging skin.

However, I did receive a swatch card sampler with my latest ULTA order; so I figured it would be a good opportunity to share what the swatches would look like on my light-medium skin tone. More specifically, MAC NC37. For reference, MAC NC37 is similar in shade to the celebrities Mila Kunis or Deepika Padukone.

Now here are the Tarte Shape Tape Concealer swatches for:

16N Fair-Light Neutral
29N Light-Medium
36S Medium-Tan Sand
47H Tan-Deep Honey
57S Rich Sand

SWATCH

Tarte Shape Tape Concealer Swatches - Oxidation Rate

Tarte Shape Tape Concealer Swatches in Artificial Light (after Oxidation)

Tarte Shape Tape Concealer Swatches in Natural Light (after Oxidation)

Tarte Shape Tape Concealer in Direct Sunlight (after Oxidation)

FINAL THOUGHTS

It's been a long time since I last wrote my original review for Tarte Shape Tape Concealer, and I was hoping that they would adjust the formula a little bit to address the oxidation issue; as I feel that the oxidation rate is pretty significant. You can see in the above comparison how 29N Light-Medium might be good match for my NC37 skin, but then after 20 minutes it becomes a bit too dark (especially in person). I wouldn't dare use it on my under eye because it just will not match. My friend with similar skin tone actually purchases 16N Fair-Light Neutral and mixes it with Light-Medium to get the right color. As for me, I rather just stick to my Clé de Peau's Radiant Corrector for Eyes.

STORE	PRICE	OFFERS
Amazon	$28.20	Free Shipping
Tarte Cosmetics	$31.00	Free Shipping and Returns
ULTA	$31.00	Free Shipping Orders $35+

At any rate, one of the great things about Tarte Shape Tape Concealer is that it comes in many shades. If you do decide to pick one up, I recommend checking them out in-store first. Use the tester to swatch on your arm and shop around for at LEAST 20 minutes, and then you will see it's true shade after oxidation. If you do manage to find a shade that works for you, it really is a concealer that just won't quit. I hope this helps!

This post may contain affiliate links to help support this blog.

None of these reviews sponsored, nor were any of the products provided for free (or even at a discount) by any affiliate.
Read full disclosure here.

I was curious if Olaplex helped with frizz for virgin hair. I found conversations in forums of people asking the same question, and the usual response is a resounding no. What I didn't find though; is why it was a "no" and most importantly, where were the before and after shots? I had to find out.

OLAPLEX
Treatment on Virgin Hair. Does it Help with Frizz?

Olaplex Treatment on Virgin Hair

INFO SHEET

Brand: Olaplex
Product List and Pricing:

Olaplex No. 0 Intensive Bond Building Hair Treatment - $30.00
Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector - $30.00
Olaplex No. 6 Bond Smoother - $30.00
Olaplex No. 7 Bonding Oil - $30.00

Where to Buy: Amazon, Olaplex, ULTA

I have never dyed my hair before, save for a little bit of oVertone strategically placed on few strands in my bangs. Always looking for the next best thing in hair care, I was curious to see if Olaplex did anything for virgin hair. I was between keratin treatments at the time so I figured now would be ideal to give Olaplex a whirl. You know... for science.

INGREDIENTS

I know I'm going to hate writing this review by just looking at the ingredients list for FOUR products, but I do this to understand what the product I'm reviewing is made up of and why it does (or doesn't do) what it claims to do. There are some Notable Ingredients that are redundant across products. I will repeat the whole description for the ingredient instead of writing "See above" so you don't have to scroll back up to read about it. Here we go...

OLAPLEX NO. 0 INTENSIVE BOND BUILDING HAIR TREATMENT

Water (Aqua/Eau), Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate

Notable Ingredients:

Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate - This ingredient is patented by Olaplex, Inc. (Patent No. US 9326926 B2 if you want to look it up). Essentially, hair dye contains ingredients to break disulfide bonds (the building blocks of the protein in the hair) to allow for deeper penetration. Hair dye also contains hydrogen peroxide which is used to help rebuild those bonds. The resulting bonds are flimsy at best and can break easily after the dyeing process. By treating the hair with Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate "most preferably immediately after application" but not greater than one week after application, ionic and covalent bonds are built within the hair thus reducing breakage, leaving hair looking healthier, and feeling softer to the touch.

OLAPLEX NO. 3 HAIR PERFECTOR

Water (Aqua), Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate, Propylene Glycol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Cetyl Alcohol, Phenoxyethanol, Glycerin, Hydroxyethyl Ethylcellulose, Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Quaternium-91, Sodium Benzoate, Cetrimonium Methosulfate, Cetrimonium Chloride, Fragrance (Parfum), Polyquaternium-37, Tetrasodium EDTA, Benzyl Benzoate, Etidronic Acid, Ascorbic Acid, Phytantriol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Panthenol, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate

Notable Ingredients:

Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate - This ingredient is patented by Olaplex, Inc. (Patent No. US 9326926 B2 if you want to look it up). Essentially, hair dye contains ingredients to break disulfide bonds (the building blocks of the protein in the hair) to allow for deeper penetration. Hair dye also contains hydrogen peroxide which is used to help rebuild those bonds. The resulting bonds are flimsy at best and can break easily after the dyeing process. By treating the hair with Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate "most preferably immediately after application" but not greater than one week after application, ionic and covalent bonds are built within the hair thus reducing breakage, leaving hair looking healthier, and feeling softer to the touch.
Behentrimonium Methosulfate - Derived from rapeseed oil, this ingredient conditions and softens the hair.
Quaternium-91 - Conditioning and softening agent.
Ascorbic Acid - aka Vitamin C. This powerful antioxidant helps reduce free radical damage to the scalp.
Phytantriol - Helps increase the efficacy of Panthenol by increasing penetration into the hair shaft. This results in increased moisture and reduces breakage. It is also said to help protect against heat damage.
Tocopheryl Acetate - A type of Vitamin E that helps protect the hair from sun damage.
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice - Containing Vitamin A, C, and E, this ingredient promotes overall scalp health, blood circulation, and the growth of healthier hair.
Panthenol - A precursor to Vitamin B5, this ingredient moisturizes the hair and scalp, promotes healthy hair growth, and increased hair shine.
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil - aka Jojoba Oil, helps prevent hair protein loss, reduces breakage, and protects the hair shaft.

OLAPLEX NO. 6 BOND SMOOTHER

Water (Aqua/Eau), Cetearyl Alcohol, Dimethicone, Isohexadecane, Coco-Caprylate, Neopentyl Glycol Diheptanoate, Behentrimonium Chloride, Isododecane, Phenyl Trimethicone, Propanediol, Fragrance (Parfum), Cetrimonium Chloride, Phenoxyethanol, Glyceryl Stearate, Isopropyl Alcohol, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Hydroxypropyl Guar, Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate, Hydroxypropyl Cyclodextrin, Hexyl Cinnamal, Limonene, Citral, Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein PG-Propyl Silanetriol, Disodium EDTA, Linalool, Citronellol, Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate, Gigartina Stellata Extract, Chondrus Crispus (Carrageenan) Extract, Hydroxycitronellal, Etidronic Acid, Tocopherol, Geraniol, Potassium Sorbate, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Ascorbic Acid, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Phytantriol, Pseudozyma Epicola/Camellia Sinensis Seed Oil Ferment Extract Filtrate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Panthenol, Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate, Citric Acid, Sodium Benzoate

Notable Ingredients:

Coco-Caprylate - Derived from coconuts, this ingredient increases moisture in the hair.
Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein PG-Propyl Silanetriol - Helps promote hair moisture and strength by coating the follicle and preventing water loss.
Gigartina Stellata Extract - Derived from Starry Algae gel, this ingredient absorbs excess oil, protects hair from environmental damage, while also promoting softness and moisture.
Chondrus Crispus (Carrageenan) Extract - aka Irish Moss Seaweed Extract. Moisturizes, protects, and promotes hair growth.
Tocopherol - aka Vitamin E. Increases circulation of the scalp thus promoting hair growth and strength.
Ascorbic Acid - aka Vitamin C. This powerful antioxidant helps reduce free radical damage to the scalp.
Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil - Prevents hair protein loss, combing damage, while also promoting increased moisture retention.
Phytantriol - Helps increase the efficacy of Panthenol by increasing penetration into the hair shaft. This results in increased moisture and reduces breakage. It is also said to help protect against heat damage.
Pseudozyma Epicola/Camellia Sinensis Seed Oil Ferment Extract Filtrate - Pseudozyma Epicola bacteria creates enzymes to help ferment Camellia Sinensis Seed Oil resulting in a fermented product with a higher nutritional advantage that increases hair softness, shine, and moisture retention.
Tocopheryl Acetate - A type of Vitamin E that helps protect the hair from sun damage.
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil - Strengthens and promotes hair growth.
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice - Containing Vitamin A, C, and E, this ingredient promotes overall scalp health, blood circulation, and the growth of healthier hair.
Panthenol - A precursor to Vitamin B5, this ingredient moisturizes the hair and scalp, promotes healthy hair growth, and increased hair shine.
Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate - This ingredient is patented by Olaplex, Inc. (Patent No. US 9326926 B2 if you want to look it up). Essentially, hair dye contains ingredients to break disulfide bonds (the building blocks of the protein in the hair) to allow for deeper penetration. Hair dye also contains hydrogen peroxide which is used to help rebuild those bonds. The resulting bonds are flimsy at best and can break easily after the dyeing process. By treating the hair with Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate "most preferably immediately after application" but not greater than one week after application, ionic and covalent bonds are built within the hair thus reducing breakage, leaving hair looking healthier, and feeling softer to the touch.

OLAPLEX NO. 7 BONDING OIL

Dimethicone, Isohexadecane, C13-14 Isoparaffin, Coco-Caprylate, Phenyl Trimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate, Propanediol, Zea Mays (Corn) Oil, Beta-Carotene, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil, Punica Granatum Seed Oil, Water (Aqua/Eau), Morinda Citrifolia Fruit Powder, Fragrance (Parfum), Hexyl Cinnamal, Eclipta Prostrata Extract, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Limonene, Tocopherol, Citral, Linalool, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Citronellol, Pseudozyma Epicola/Camellia Sinensis Seed Oil Ferment Extract Filtrate

Notable Ingredients:

Coco-Caprylate - Derived from coconuts, this ingredient increases moisture in the hair.
Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate - This ingredient is patented by Olaplex, Inc. (Patent No. US 9326926 B2 if you want to look it up). Essentially, hair dye contains ingredients to break disulfide bonds (the building blocks of the protein in the hair) to allow for deeper penetration. Hair dye also contains hydrogen peroxide which is used to help rebuild those bonds. The resulting bonds are flimsy at best and can break easily after the dyeing process. By treating the hair with Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate "most preferably immediately after application" but not greater than one week after application, ionic and covalent bonds are built within the hair thus reducing breakage, leaving hair looking healthier, and feeling softer to the touch.
Zea Mays (Corn) Oil - Lightweight oil that increases softness and shine.
Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil - Increases hair strength, moisture, and reduces breakage. Promotes a healthy scalp and prevents dandruff.
Punica Granatum Seed Oil - aka Pomegranate Seed Oil. This powerful antioxidant helps protect the hair from environmental damage while increasing softness and shine.
Morinda Citrifolia Fruit Powder - aka Noni Fruit Powder. This ingredient has antibacterial properties that help prevent dandruff.
Eclipta Prostrata Extract - Stimulates growth / reduces hair loss by promoting and sustaining the hair follicle during the growth phase.
Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract - Stimulates hair growth.
Pseudozyma Epicola/Camellia Sinensis Seed Oil Ferment Extract Filtrate - Pseudozyma Epicola bacteria creates enzymes to help ferment Camellia Sinensis Seed Oil resulting in a fermented product with a higher nutritional advantage that increases hair softness, shine, and moisture retention.

The main difference that I see between Olaplex No. 0 Intensive Bond Building Hair Treatment and Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector is that No. 3 contains more conditioning and thickening agents. That explains why Olaplex No. 0 is watery in consistency when compared to No. 3. I think if I had to choose between buying one or the other, I would choose Olaplex No. 3 because the treatment will stay in the hair better.

Olaplex No. 6 Bond Smoother is essentially made up of conditioning and smoothing agents, oils, and other nutrients. Overall it seems like a really nice leave in conditioner (on paper).

I found that Olaplex No. 7 Bonding Oil is a lightweight oil with a pleasant smell. It does contain the "star ingredient" Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate, but I don't think it's necessary for an Olaplex treatment since this ingredient is abundant in the other products listed. I do believe the product has a lot of nice ingredients regardless, and I typically use a small amount after styling as it does seem to increase shine without weighting the hair down.

BEFORE & AFTER

It does not help with frizz, but my hair was VERY soft.

When I write my reviews for hair products, I take my before and after shots without styling. I feel that by introducing styling with other products takes away from the true result. The above shot shows my hair before and after the Olaplex treatment unstyled and without a keratin treatment.

Now let's face it. The only thing that has successfully taken the frizz out of my hair has been keratin treatments (which I now DIY at home). When I tried Olaplex, I was disappointed because it did not help with frizz for my virgin hair, but there was something certainly different about it. It was soft... very soft; so much so that I could not stop touching it. It just felt healthier, and so I decided to straighten it.

Olaplex resulted in softer and shinier hair.

After straightening, I found that my hair was still soft but also had more movement and was shinier than usual. I think the reason why it helps with frizz more dramatically to those with chemically treated / dyed hair is because the type of frizz encountered from those treatments is due to damage. My frizz however.. is due to humidity, curl pattern, and overall lack of styling. This is why keratin treatments work best for me, because I'm pretty low maintenance when it comes to hair.

FINAL THOUGHTS

I don't think Olaplex No. 0 Intensive Bond Building Treatment was worth it for me. My hair is so long that I definitely felt that the watery consistency of this product meant that I had to use a lot of it. I used up nearly 60% of a 5.2 oz bottle on just one treatment! At $30 a pop? No thanks. Plus the main ingredient of it is Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate which is also present in Olaplex No. 3. So to me No. 0 is not worth it.

Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector is great though. It contains a lot of goodies as well as the all important Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate bond building ingredient needed to repair and promote healthy hair; on top of a wide array of other goodies that makes it an all around great product.

Olaplex No. 6 Bond Smoother is also pretty nice. It's basically a fancy leave in conditioner, but the ingredients are good quality so for me it was worth it.

Olaplex No. 7 Bonding Oil is okay, but that is because it's in a weird spot for me. If I don't have a keratin treatment in my hair, then it simply is not enough to tame it. For that I prefer OGX Renewing + Argan Oil of Morocco Penetrating Hair Oil Treatment. On the other hand, if I do have a keratin treatment in my hair then just I don't need it. I do like it though... I just don't think I have the right hair type for it.

STORE	PRICE	OFFERS
Amazon	$30.00 each	Free Shipping
Olaplex	$30.00 each	Free Shipping Orders $50+
ULTA	$30.00 each	Free Shipping Orders $35+

When it comes to repurchasing I think Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector and Olaplex No. 6 Bond Smoother is a yes for me. Despite it not helping with my general frizz, I do believe that continued use (perhaps once a month) will increase overall hair health and manageability.

Before purchasing individually, I would look to see if they can be bought in a set. For example, ULTA sometimes has the OLAPLEX Smooth & Healthy Hair Set that includes 3.3oz bottles of No. 3 and No. 6 or $42; which they normally retail for $30 each.

OLAPLEX NO. 0 INTENSIVE BOND BUILDING HAIR TREATMENT

Rating

OLAPLEX NO. 3 HAIR PERFECTOR

Rating

OLAPLEX NO. 6 BOND SMOOTHER

Rating

OLAPLEX NO. 7 BONDING OIL

Rating

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THE INKEY LIST
Tripeptide Plumping Lip Balm Review

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Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation Swatches

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Nose Pore Patches Review

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Treatment on Virgin Hair. Does it Help with Frizz?