How to Use Dry Shampoo

If you’re on a quest for salon-worthy hair, then you’ve probably heard a thing or two about dry shampoo. Perfect for giving second day (and third day) hair a quick refresh, this hardworking beauty product can create instant volume and body while keeping hair oil-free in between washes. Plus, it helps save water, which is always a good thing!

Dry shampoo is an amazing tool for all hair types, but there’s a small catch: It won’t do anything for your scalp and strands if you’re using it incorrectly. Below, learn how to use dry shampoo the right way and get tips for choosing an eco-friendly dry shampoo that’s perfect for your hair.

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What Is Dry Shampoo? 

First things first: What is dry shampoo? Basically, it’s a type of shampoo that leaves hair feeling clean and refreshed without the need for water. Dry shampoos are often made from starch and clay, two ingredients that are known for their oil-absorbing properties. 

When used correctly, dry shampoo can lengthen the time between washes. This allows more of your hair’s natural oils to lubricate the hair shaft, reducing the likelihood of breakage, dryness and unwanted color fading — all major wins!

Dry Shampoo Powder vs. Spray

Before we explain how to use dry shampoo, let’s talk about your options. Dry shampoo comes in two main variations: powders and sprays. 

Dry Shampoo Sprays

Commonly recommended for people with fine or thin hair types, dry shampoo sprays earn top marks for being convenient. They’re fast and easy to use. Simply shake the bottle and spray a few inches away from your roots. 

Unfortunately, that’s where the advantages of dry shampoo spray come to an end. Dry shampoo sprays often come with a long list of questionable ingredients, including denatured alcohol, phenoxyethanol (a preservative known to cause allergic reactions) and propane.

Another problem with buying traditional aerosol dry shampoo sprays? They’re bad for the environment. While aerosols no longer contain ozone-depleting chemicals, they still emit organic volatile compounds (VOCs) that negatively affect ecosystems and contribute to asthma-inducing smog.

Dry Shampoo Powders

Are you now rethinking dry shampoo spray? Not to worry! There’s another way to revitalize oily locks: dry shampoo powder. 

Here at The Earthling Co., we prefer powders over sprays for a couple of reasons. First, dry shampoo powders typically have a much shorter (and cleaner!) list of ingredients. They also tend to last longer than sprays and come in less wasteful packaging.

Well-suited for all hair types, we offer dry shampoo powder in two options, one for light hair and one for dark hair. Plus, it only contains five or six ingredients (depending on the color option) and comes in a reusable container that is 100 percent recyclable. Give our earth-friendly dry shampoo a try and let us know what you think!

How to Use Dry Shampoo 

Once you’ve found your dry shampoo soulmate, it’s time to learn how to properly apply it. Here are four simple steps to help you avoid dreaded white spots and product buildup.

Step 1: Section Your Hair

First, use a bamboo comb to gently part your hair into small sections, starting with the oiliest part of your hair. For most people, the oiliest part is usually the crown of the head or along the hairline. 

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Step 2: Apply to the Roots

Now, it’s time to apply the dry shampoo to the roots of your hair, section by section. For this step, we’ve found that the best way to apply dry shampoo powder is by using an old, clean makeup brush. Not only does it spread the product evenly throughout the scalp, but it also saves an item that would otherwise go to a landfill!

Don’t have a makeup brush handy? Just sprinkle the powder on with your fingers.

Step 3: Wait for 5 to 10 Minutes

One of the most common mistakes that people make with dry shampoo is not giving the product enough time to work its magic. You need to allow the dry shampoo to sit in your hair for five to 10 minutes.

Not sure how to pass the time? Sneak in a quick meditation session, brush your teeth, or give your face an earth-friendly wash with our facial soap bar.

Step 4: Distribute the Product

After five to 10 minutes is up, use your fingers to massage the dry shampoo into your scalp and crown. This will help activate the oil-absorbing ingredients while reducing potential white spots and buildup.

And that’s it! Style your hair as you normally would and enjoy your extra day before you need to wash. 

A Hair Care Game Changer

Straight, wavy or curly-kinky, your hair can benefit from dry shampoo. But choosing the right product for your hair — and knowing how to use it properly — is key to getting enviable locks. 

Have you tried our natural dry shampoo powder yet? Check it out and let us know what you think!