Choosing between System Professional and Ref can make all the difference in your hair care routine. Both brands offer targeted solutions but differ in positioning, product range, price points, and specialties.
This guide provides a clear, data-driven comparison: prices, best sellers, available sizes, and the strengths of each brand. So you can decide which one fits your needs best.
The products we talk about
Brand positioning and philosophy
System Professional is a brand specialized in professional hair treatments, offering a wide range tailored to specific needs like repair, hydration, color, and protection. The collection on Papique includes 49 products, such as shampoos, conditioners, masks, and mousses.
Ref, on the other hand, focuses on high-performance products, often in large sizes, emphasizing hydration, nourishment, and volume. The Ref collection on Papique features 32 items, including masks, conditioners, and shampoos, many available in 1000 ml or 2000 ml sizes.
Price ranges and sizes: what to expect
System Professional offers prices ranging from around €46 for shampoos and mousses (e.g., "System Professional Repair Shampoo 250 ml" at €46.25) up to over €140 for 1000 ml sizes ("System Professional LipidCode LuxeBlond Shampoo LB1 1000 ml" at €142.39, on promo from €180.16). The most common sizes range between 150 ml and 1000 ml.
Ref provides a slightly wider price range: starting at €22.63 for the mask "Ref Weightless Volume 60 ml" (on promo from €51.29) up to €127.74 for the conditioner "Ref Intense Hydrate Moisturizing Conditioner for Dry Hair 1000 ml". Large sizes, like 1000 ml or 2000 ml shampoos and conditioners, are a key strength of the brand.
Strengths and best-selling products
System Professional stands out for its variety of targeted treatments: from the "System Professional Color Save Dual-Phase Conditioner 185 ml" (€86.23) for colored hair, to the "System Professional Purifying Mask 200 ml" (€86.50) and the "System Professional Perfetto Repair Mousse 150 ml" (€46.25). The availability of specific products for every need (repair, hydration, protection, anti-frizz) is central.
- "System Professional Smoothen Conditioner 1000 ml" (€75.97) for frizzy, nourished hair
- "System Professional LipidCode LuxeBlond Shampoo LB1 1000 ml" for blonde hair
Ref focuses on hydration and volume, with products like "Ref Intense Hydrate Masque moisturizing mask for dry hair 500 ml" (€106.81), "Ref Stockholm Illuminate 2000 ml" (€63.80), and "Ref Ultimate Repair Intensive Mask for Damaged Hair 250 ml" (€62.08). The large sizes are perfect for those seeking value and long-lasting use.
- "Ref Weightless Volume Sulfate-Free Volumizing Shampoo 2000 ml" (€63.80)
- "Ref Stockholm ProPlex 02.Perfector Strengthening Cream Treatment 500 ml" (€46.18)
Who is System Professional best for and who should choose Ref?
System Professional is recommended for those looking for professional, targeted solutions with a wide selection of products for specific needs like color, repair, and heat protection. It suits those who prefer standard sizes and want to invest in mid-to-high-end treatments.
Ref is ideal for those who want large sizes, intense hydration, and volumizing products. It's especially suitable for families, salons, or anyone seeking great quantity-to-price ratio without compromising on effective formulas.
Summary comparison
| Aspect | System Professional | Ref |
|---|---|---|
| Price range | €46.25 - €142.39 | €22.63 - €127.74 |
| Best sellers | Color Save Dual-Phase Conditioner, LipidCode LuxeBlond Shampoo, Smoothen Conditioner | Intense Hydrate Masque, Illuminate 2000 ml, Ultimate Repair Masque |
| Available sizes | 150 ml - 1000 ml | 60 ml - 2000 ml |
| Specialties | Targeted treatments: color, repair, hydration, anti-frizz | Hydration, volume, large sizes |
| Who it's for | Those seeking professional and specific solutions | Those wanting large sizes and intense hydration |
| Availability on Papique | 49 products | 32 products |
Explore all System Professional and Ref hair products on Papique · Capelli System Professional (49)
Explore all System Professional and Ref hair products on Papique · Capelli Ref (32)
Frequently asked questions
Which brand is more affordable between System Professional and Ref?
Ref offers the lowest price (€22.63) and often provides large sizes at competitive prices, while System Professional starts at €46.25.
Which products are best for colored hair?
System Professional offers the "Color Save Dual-Phase Conditioner 185 ml" designed to protect color. Ref offers gentle conditioners specifically for colored hair.
Does Ref offer large sizes?
Yes, Ref stands out for offering 1000 ml and 2000 ml sizes, ideal for those seeking value and long-lasting use.
Does System Professional have products for damaged hair?
Yes, such as the "System Professional Repair Shampoo 250 ml" and the "Repairing Hair Mask 400 ml."
Which brand is better for fine hair lacking volume?
Ref offers several volumizing products, like "Weightless Volume Shampoo" and "Weightless Volume 60 ml."
Shipping to over 60 countries from Italy: outside the EU duties and taxes are included in the price (DDP), no surprises at delivery. Returns within 14 days of delivery. Newsletter discount code: 4RARE. Prices and availability updated on 2026-10-23.