How Bond-Building Hair Treatments Work

Bond-building treatments work on the internal structure of the hair rather than coating the outside of it. Bleaching, colouring and heat styling break disulfide bonds inside the hair shaft, and bond builders are formulated to reform some of them. That is a different job to conditioning, which is why the two are not interchangeable.

How they differ from conditioner

Conditioner smooths the cuticle and improves how hair feels immediately after washing. Bond builders target the internal structure, and their results build over repeated use rather than appearing after a single wash. If you are judging a bond builder by how your hair feels the first time, you are measuring the wrong thing.

Bond builder or protein treatment?

Protein treatments fill gaps in the cuticle and can leave hair feeling stiff or brittle if overused. Bond builders address the bonds inside the shaft. Damaged hair often benefits from both, but not in the same wash — alternate them rather than stacking them.

How to use one

Most bond builders are applied to damp, towel-dried hair before shampooing, and left on for the time stated on the pack. Longer is not better and does not improve the result. Follow with your usual shampoo and conditioner. Always follow the directions on the packaging, since application methods vary between products.

How often

Once a week suits most people. In the weeks immediately after bleaching or a significant colour change you may want to use one more frequently, then taper back as the hair recovers. Consistency matters more than intensity.

Where to start

Browse the full hair care range, see hair essentials for masks and treatments, or explore hair colour if you colour at home.