Name: Nº.10 Bond Shaper™ Curl Defining Gel (Ulta)
Brand: OLAPLEX
SKU: n10-bond-shaper-curl-defining-gel-36407aae
Rating: 4.6 (396 reviews)

OLAPLEX

A reparative, curl-defining styling gel to instantly revive your natural curl pattern.WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT<ul><li data-block-key="dupsr">Shapes, defines and enhances natural curl pattern.</li><li data-block-key="1i927">72-hr frizz control; humidity –resistant.</li><li data-block-key="7q6gh">Provides medium all-day hold.</li><li data-block-key="71spt">Lightly conditions and seals in moisture for</li><li data-block-key="dimdg">softer curls.</li><li data-block-key="977i0">Silicone and Protein free.</li><li data-block-key="cfgv3">Natural, soft touchable curls with bounce and movement.</li></ul>

I recently tried the Olaplex No. 10 Bond Shaper Curl Defining Gel, and after a full week of using it, I can honestly say it has earned a permanent spot in my routine. As someone with 2C to 3A curls that are color-treated and prone to frizz, finding the right product has always been a bit of a journey. I want definition, long-lasting hold, and frizz control—but I also care about the health of my hair. That’s exactly why this product stood out to me.

The first thing I appreciated was the texture. Unlike most curl gels that tend to be sticky or thick, the Olaplex No. 10 has a lightweight, smooth, and slightly silky consistency. It’s easy to distribute evenly through damp hair, and you don’t need a lot to get good coverage. The scent is light and fresh—not overpowering—which I prefer, especially for leave-in styling products.

I applied it on freshly washed, towel-dried hair with no other styling products underneath because I wanted to see how it performed on its own. I raked it in and then scrunched to encourage curl formation. Right away, it felt different from other gels I’ve used. It gave a soft hold even before my hair dried, and there was no stickiness or stiffness at all.

Once my hair fully air-dried, I was really impressed with the results. My curls were defined, shiny, and touchable. There was no crunch—none of that hard gel cast you have to break through. It just looked and felt like my natural curls, but enhanced. What stood out most, though, was the frizz control. Even in humid weather, my hair held its shape beautifully throughout the day. It didn’t puff up, and I didn’t feel the need to restyle or smooth anything down.

Day two and three were even more of a surprise. Normally, I need to refresh my curls with a spray or a bit of water. But with this gel, I barely needed to do anything. My curls were still in place, the shape held up, and my hair didn’t feel dry or dull. I actually wore my hair down on day three without having to reapply any product, which never happens for me.

What really sets this gel apart is the bond-building technology. True to the Olaplex brand, this isn’t just a styling product—it’s a treatment. It works to repair broken bonds in the hair while it styles, meaning you get both aesthetic and structural benefits. After using it for a week, my hair genuinely felt stronger and less brittle, especially at the ends. That’s not something I usually notice so quickly from a styling product, so it really impressed me.

I also tried applying it in a smaller amount to dry hair to smooth down flyaways, and it worked great—no flakes or weird residue. The product is super versatile. I could easily see it working not just for curl definition, but also for slick styles or updos that need some hold without stiffness.

One thing to be aware of is the amount you use. Because the formula is rich, using too much can weigh down finer hair. I found that a small amount per section was plenty to get definition without heaviness. Once you figure out how much your hair needs, it’s super easy to work with.

Another plus: it plays well with other products. On a few test days, I layered it with a leave-in conditioner underneath, and there was no weird texture or clumping. It layered seamlessly and actually helped lock in moisture while still giving great hold.

In terms of packaging, the 200 mL tube feels generous and well-designed. It’s easy to store and dispense, and a little goes a long way. That makes the price point feel justified, especially considering you’re getting both styling and treatment benefits in one step.

Overall, the Olaplex No. 10 Bond Shaper is everything I want in a curl product. It defines, softens, strengthens, and lasts. I’ve never used a gel that felt this nourishing while still giving me reliable results. It’s especially great if you’re trying to simplify your routine without sacrificing performance.

If you have curly, wavy, or textured hair and are looking for a product that does more than just hold a curl, this is one to try. It’s an investment, yes—but one that delivers on every promise it makes. I’m excited to keep using it and see how my hair continues to improve.

Enthusiast

I love OLAPLEX No. 5 Leave-in Conditioner, so I knew No. 10 Bond Shaper Curl Defining Gel wouldn’t disappoint! I might need to invest in all the products because they are so beneficial. I have shoulder-length, 3C, dry, frizzy, curly hair. The lightweight gel reduces frizz and adds shine while enhancing and strengthening my natural curls. I apply a small amount to wet hair; a little goes a long way, especially if you plan to layer it. My curls looked beautiful whether I used a towel, diffuser, or air drying. The gel doesn’t flake when it dries, my hair feels smooth, and my curls are bouncy. The look holds all day, feels soft, and isn’t heavy, crunchy, or stiff. I love the citrus scent, and I’m impressed with the results. I recommend this to all the curly girls!

This brand has become my favorite brand. I really love the products. I was surprised at how it left my curls very defined and soft, without much frizz. My hair is type 3b. I have tried other brands and none of them defined it as well as this Olaplex N°10 Gel. This is the positive point for me about this product. The negative point that I didn't like was that my curls got too thin. For those who don't have problems with it, it will be perfect. I hope Olaplex makes a product for curls that has oil in its composition so as not to take away the volume of the hair. My hair has never been so beautiful and shiny.I think that this gel is ideal for curly hair that likes volume.You can apply it without fear on dry hair and it works.I will use this gel again to see if I like it more and if I want to continue using it after it runs out.