In the realm of hair care, few other products compare to the effects dry shampoo has on our hair care routine. By offering a quick fix to limp or greasy hair, dry shampoo allows us to extend the time between washes and make lifeless hair look full again with a few sprays of a can. However, like most things, too much of a good thing can take away the magic, and there is a right and a wrong when it comes to applying dry shampoo, how often, and best practice tips.
In this article, we’ll dive into what dry shampoo is, things to look for when shopping, application do’s and don’ts and our favorite dry shampoo brands!
What is Dry Shampoo?
Let’s start with the basics; dry shampoo usually comes in a powder or aerosol spray formulated to absorb excess oil and impurities from the scalp and hair, leaving your locks refreshed and revitalized. Unlike traditional shampoo, dry shampoo does not require water, making it an ideal solution for refreshing your hair on the go or t o extend styles between washes.
What are the benefits?
Oil Absorption
There’s nothing worse than washing and drying your hair before bed and waking up with limp, greasy hair. Dry shampoo’s primary benefit of dry shampoo is its ability to absorb excess oil from the scalp and hair, effectively refreshing your style and extending the time between washes.
Instant Refresh
Dry shampoo instantly refreshes your hair, leaving it looking and feeling clean and voluminous, even when you haven't had the chance to wash it.
Adds Volume and Texture
A tip for our fine-haired friends: dry shampoo can add volume too! Adding texture makes hair easier to manipulate and adds hold, giving life to limp hair. It can help lift flat roots and give your hair a more voluminous, bouncy appearance.
Extends Hairstyle
Dry shampoo helps extend the life of your hairstyle, allowing you to go longer between washes without sacrificing cleanliness or freshness. This is especially beneficial for those of us with color-treated or processed hair, as frequent washing can strip the hair of its natural oils, wash out color prematurely and cause unwanted changes to lightened hair.
Highly Convenient
Dry shampoo is perfect for busy individuals or when you're traveling and don't have access to traditional shampoo and water. Yes, they make to-go sizes that fit in your purse too.
The Do’s and Don'ts of Dry Shampoo
Using dry shampoo is quick and easy, but there are a few tips to keep in mind to ensure optimal results. Let’s start with the Do’s:
Do’s:
Shake Well
Whether aerosol, liquid or straight powder: before applying dry shampoo, shake the bottle well to ensure the product is evenly distributed.
Apply to Roots
Hold the bottle several inches away from your scalp and spray the dry shampoo directly onto the roots of your hair, lifting hair in chunks to evenly distribute while focusing on areas that tend to get oily. Pro tip: hold the bottle at an angle so you’re not spraying directly on your scalp, but instead up and through your hair.
Massage In Thoroughly
If you haven’t used dry shampoo before, you may notice streaks of powder which is totally normal. Use your fingertips to massage the dry shampoo into your scalp, distributing the product evenly. You’ll feel more texture and see less oil and no powder once the dry shampoo has been absorbed.
Brush Through
After applying dry shampoo, brush or comb through your hair to remove any excess powder and distribute it evenly.
Customize Your Application
Dry shampoo comes in various formulas to suit different hair types and preferences. If you have dark hair, you may want to opt for a tinted dry shampoo to avoid any white residue compared to light hair where a traditional white formula should work fine. There are also different types for different application times and needs; including water-based formulas for post-workout sweaty locks or powder-based for those who want to avoid aerosol application.
Don’ts
Don’t replace shampoo with dry shampoo
Dry shampoo is a game changer, but going too long between washes can result in dry hair and an imbalanced scalp. If you’re hoping to oil train your scalp, check out this article to learn more about the benefits and the proper way to do so - without too much dry shampoo.
Don’t overdo It
A little goes a long way with dry shampoo, so start with a small amount and build up as needed to avoid overloading your hair with product.
Don’t ignore build-up
Like any product, using dry shampoo too much or too often can result in build up, which in turn can cause more harm than good. Dry shampoo builds up on hair strands but also the scalp, causing imbalance to the natural Ph which can affect everything from oil production to growth. Avoid using too many days in a row and use a clarifying scalp shampoo from time to time.
Don’t spray too close
For the powder of the dry shampoo to be evenly distributed, the product should be sprayed at least 6-8 inches from your scalp. Spraying too close will result in overapplication and build up, as well as pesky white streaks that are stubborn and difficult to massage in.
Don’t use on wet hair
Unless otherwise indicated, dry shampoo is designed to be used on dry hair, as its name suggests. Applying dry shampoo to wet or damp hair can result in uneven distribution and a gummy residue that's difficult to brush out. It's best to wait until your hair is completely dry before using dry shampoo to ensure optimal results
Our Favorite Dry Shampoos
Check out our favorite dry shampoos and what we love about them, all available at Tease Hair Boutique!
Kerastase Fresh Affair Dry Shampoo
Unlike conventional dry shampoos that may leave residue or strip the hair of its natural oils, Kerastase's formula is infused with ingredients such as rice starch and vitamin E, absorbing excess oil and impurities while leaving the hair feeling clean, light, and revitalized.
Redken Invisible Dry Shampoo
Boasting an invisible formula that leaves hair residue-free after use, Redken Invisible Dry Shampoo is formulated with vitamin E and B5 to absorb oil while allowing for moisture. Fragrance free, it takes invisible to the next level with no strong scents but refreshed and revitalized locks.
Redken Deep Clean Dry Shampoo
Redken’s Deep Clean Dry Shampoo is formulated with vitamin C and B5 to eliminate odors and refresh hair. With its deep clean promise, this dry shampoo absorbs heavy duty oils and works on hair up to four days post-wash. It even offers a cooling/tingling sensation for that extra clean hair.
Bottom Line
Whether you're pressed for time, traveling, or simply looking to give your hair a quick pick-me-up, dry shampoo is a must-have product in any beauty arsenal. Like any hair or beauty product, it’s important to know the do’s and don'ts of use to ensure optimal results. Next time you’re at the salon, make sure to ask your Tease Hair Boutique stylist which dry shampoo is right for you to extend your salon-styled hair!
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