What’s the Difference Between N°.5 and N°.5CURL Conditioner? – OLAPLEX Inc.

Key Takeaways

• A hydrating conditioner is crucial for wavy, curly, and coily hair types as they are more susceptible to dryness and frizziness.
• N°.5 Bond Maintenance® Conditioner is best for those focusing on damage and hair repair, while N°.5CURL Bond Shaper™ is ideal for those seeking targeted hydration and curl support.
• Keep curly hair patterns healthy by focusing on hydration, using bond-building products, spacing out wash days, avoiding sulfates, detangling hair while wet, minimizing heat styling, and incorporating moisturizing hair masks.

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Conditioning is an essential step in any haircare routine, especially for curly hair patterns, which rely on hydration to maintain texture, softness, and definition.

If you’re an avid OLAPLEX user, you may be wondering about the difference between N°.5 Bond Maintenance® Conditioner and N°.5CURL Bond Shaper™ Hydrating Curl Conditioner.

While our classic N°.5 Bond Maintenance® Conditioner is a conditioner formulated for all hair types, N°.5CURL Bond Shaper™ is designed specifically for the unique needs of curls, waves, and coils.

Why Conditioner Matters for Curls, Waves, and Coils

Wavy, curly, and coily hair types are more prone to dehydration and damage. The twisted structure of these textures makes it harder for hair to retain moisture, leaving strands more susceptible to dryness over time.

Because the structures of curls, waves, and coils are uneven, it becomes more difficult for scalp oil to reach the ends of hair. 

Think of the way oil moves through hair like water flowing through a stream. The straighter the river, the easier it is for water to flow freely. The more bends in the river, the slower the current, and the longer it takes for water to reach its destination. 

When the natural oils of your hair struggle to keep up with the twists and turns of your textured hair, a hydrating conditioner matters more than ever. As curl patterns become tighter, hair has an even harder time retaining moisture, with coily hair types being the most prone to dryness.

Do You Have Curly or Wavy Hair?

Many people go through their lives without realizing they have wavy or curly hair, often because their hair lacks moisture or they are using the wrong products. When hair isn’t properly hydrated or supported, it can disrupt its natural pattern, making hair look dry, poofy, and frizzy.

See how your hair behaves when it’s wet. The next time you’re in the shower, look to see if your hair forms an “S” shape when damp. This is a telltale sign that your hair is curly or wavy. 

If you suspect your hair may actually be wavy or curly, consider adjusting your hair routine and choosing moisture rich products, starting with a conditioner formulated specifically for curls and waves.

N°.5 vs. N°.5CURL: Which Conditioner Is Right for Me?

N°.5 Bond Maintenance® Conditioner works for all hair types, including curls, waves, and coils. This classic conditioner repairs bonds with OLAPLEX Bond Building Technology™, while hydrating hair. If your focus is on repairing damage, N°.5 is for you.

When your curls, waves, and coils need more support, turn to N°.5CURL Bond Shaper™ Hydrating Curl Conditioner. Along with OLAPLEX Bond Building Technology™, N°.5CURL has 3D Bond Shaper Technology for instantly strong, defined, hydrated curls that last.

This deep conditioner for curly, wavy, and coily hair:

• Cuts down frizz, even in high humidity
• Protects length over time
• Reduces static
• Detangles instantaneously

Tips for Caring for Curly Hair Patterns

Along with using a conditioner like N°.5CURL, follow these tips for supporting your wavy, curly, or coily hair. 

• Use a bond-builder like N°.3PLUS. Waves, curls, and coils are more susceptible to broken bonds. Apply a bond repair treatment like N°.3PLUS to wet hair prior to washing with a curl-friendly shampoo like N°.4CURL Bond Shaper™ Hydrating Curl Shampoo. Use this bond-building treatment every 1-3 washes.
• Don’t overwash. Curly hair tends to dry out more easily, and frequent washing can strip it of its natural oils. Instead of washing daily, consider spacing out wash days. 
• Use a sulfate-free shampoo. Sulfates are harsh and can strip the hair of natural oils. Instead, use a curl-friendly shampoo formulated without SLS, like N°.4CURL Bond Shaper™ Hydrating Curl Shampoo, followed by N°.5CURL Conditioner.
• Avoid brushing dry hair. Brushing your hair while it's dry impacts your natural curl pattern. Instead, detangle your hair when it’s wet with a comb and a leave-in conditioner like N°.5 Leave-In™.
• Use low-heat. Try diffusing your hair instead of using a hair dryer. Before diffusing, use a heat-protectant styler to define your curl pattern like N°.10 Bond Shaper™ Curl Defining Gel.
• Hydrate with a mask. Help replenish moisture to your hair by using Rich Hydration Mask in your routine after washing your hair.

Whether you’ve recently discovered your curl pattern or you’re looking to enhance well-defined curls, OLAPLEX is here to support all your goals. Take our Hair Quiz to get a more personalized routine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you use N°.5CURL Bond Shaper™ Hydrating Curl Conditioner on perms?

Yes, you can use N°.5CURL Conditioner on perms, but wait at least 48 hours after getting one. N°.5CURL Conditioner is a great option for those with perms, as it repairs hair bonds and provides hydration, both of which are essential after any chemical service.

Can you use N°.5CURL Bond Shaper™ Hydrating Curl Conditioner on colored hair?

Yes, N°.5CURL Conditioner is safe for colored hair.

Is N°.5CURL Bond ShaperTM Hydrating Curl Conditioner a leave-in conditioner?

No, N°.5CURL Conditioner is rinse-out only. Incorporate N°.5 Leave-In™ after washing and conditioning your hair for additional moisture, protection, and detangling action.

How often should I condition with Is N°.5CURL Bond ShaperTM Hydrating Curl Conditioner?

Use N°.5CURL Conditioner after every wash with N°.4CURL Shampoo. How often you should wash and condition your hair depends on your hair type. Curlier hair types typically benefit from less frequent washing.