At just 25 years old, Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone has already carved out an extraordinary legacy in the world of track and field. With four Olympic gold medals, three world championship titles, and a world record in the women’s 400-meter hurdles under her belt, she’s proven she’s a force to be reckoned with. But beyond her victories on the track, McLaughlin-Levrone is now sprinting toward another goal: holistic well-being.
Following her achievements at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, McLaughlin-Levrone is taking a moment to refocus on an equally important part of her life—herself. In a recent conversation, she shared the core of her personal wellness regimen, which centers around three major components: hair care, skincare, and self-care. And as it turns out, each of these areas plays a pivotal role in keeping her grounded, confident, and feeling her best.
Recently, McLaughlin-Levrone added a new title to her impressive resumé: commercial actor. She’s partnered with Olaplex for their latest campaign, Designed to Defy, a celebration of hair health, empowerment, and the confidence that comes with both. The partnership felt like a natural fit for the athlete, who’s long been a fan of the brand. “I have been a fan of Olaplex for a long time,” she says. “As someone with curls who loved using heat for a long time, I was really excited when I found their brand and was able to bring my hair back to life.”
Her journey to embracing her natural curls wasn’t instantaneous. “For some reason in my mind, I felt more confident with straight hair, because I just didn’t know how to manage my curls,” McLaughlin-Levrone admits. Like many people with curly hair, she struggled with finding the right products and techniques. But when the pandemic offered a moment to slow down, she took the time to reassess her approach to hair care, beginning a new chapter in her wellness journey.
“Since COVID, it’s been a journey of figuring out what works for my hair type, what works for me—especially being an athlete and wearing a lot of ponytails and buns,” she shares. Through trial and error, she’s landed on a haircare routine that keeps her curls healthy and hydrated. “In the shower, I use No. 8 and No. 3 at the same time, then follow up with No. 4 and No. 5. For me, it just works. My curls really love it—they feel hydrated, they feel clean, they feel moisturized.”
These numbered Olaplex products might sound like a secret code, but they’re accessible to everyone. While Nos. 1 and 2 are designed for salon use, the rest—Nos. 0 and 3 through 10—are available for at-home care. McLaughlin-Levrone swears by:
No. 8 Bond Intense Moisture Mask (100 mL, $30)
No. 3 Hair Perfector (100 mL, $30)
No. 4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo (250 mL, $32)
No. 5 Bond Maintenance Conditioner (250 mL, $32)
For those unsure of which products are right for their own hair needs, Olaplex even offers a helpful Routine Quiz.
Of course, McLaughlin-Levrone’s routine doesn’t stop at the shower. Post-wash care is just as important, especially for an athlete who spends so much time training outdoors. “There’s a lot of sweat and grime and dirt that can go into [my hair] being outside on the track all the time,” she explains. “I used to do one wash day a week, now I’m closer to two.” She also takes extra steps to maintain moisture, especially under the sun’s harsh rays. “Even if it’s just a leave-in, I make sure to add moisture. And at home, I try not to put [my hair] up into a ponytail—I keep it out as much as possible.”
For McLaughlin-Levrone, caring for her hair isn’t just about appearances—it’s a form of self-care, a ritual that helps her feel her strongest both inside and out. And as she continues to dominate in her sport, it’s clear that her approach to wellness is just as powerful as her presence on the track.