Dry shampoo is a staple in many routines, helping extend hairstyles and freshen up between washes. Using it correctly can make all the difference between a quick refresh and a full, natural-looking style. Here’s everything you need to know about dry shampoo.
What is Dry Shampoo?
Dry shampoo is a quick, water-free solution for absorbing excess oil from your scalp and hair, making it look and feel clean without washing. The convenience of dry shampoo has made it popular among those who want to extend their blowout, add volume, or give their hair a lift in a pinch.
Benefits of Dry Shampoo
- Oil Control: Keeps hair from looking greasy between washes.
- Volume and Texture Boost: Adds body to flat hair, making it ideal for creating lifted styles.
- Color Preservation: Reduces the need for frequent washes, which helps maintain hair color, especially for color-treated hair.
Types of Dry Shampoo
Choosing the right type can enhance results. Here are a few options, with recommended products to try:
- Blonde and Dark Tones: Tinted dry shampoos blend seamlessly, avoiding any white residue.
- Recommended Products: Moroccanoil Dry Shampoo Light Tones and Moroccanoil Dry Shampoo Dark Tones – These are tailored for both light and dark hair tones, keeping color vibrant.
- Texturizing Dry Shampoo: Adds volume and grip, perfect for styling and giving fine hair more lift.
- Recommended Product: ELEVEN Give Me Clean Hair Dry Shampoo – A lightweight option that refreshes and adds a bit of texture without weighing hair down.
- Dry Shampoo Paste: Provides control and shape, making it ideal for adding texture, especially in shorter hairstyles.
- Recommended Product: ELEVEN Dry Shampoo Volume Paste – Great for short hair or adding a bit of volume and texture without the typical dry shampoo feel.
How to Best Use Dry Shampoo
For the best results, use dry shampoo as a preventive measure on clean hair instead of waiting until your hair is visibly oily. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Start on Clean Hair: Apply dry shampoo after washing and styling to help absorb oil from the start.
- Section and Spray: Hold the can about 6–8 inches away, and spray section by section, focusing on the roots where oil buildup usually starts.
- Let It Set: Give it a minute to absorb oils before you start massaging or brushing. Letting it sit makes it more effective.
- Massage or Brush Through: Use your fingers or a brush to distribute the product and add volume.
Common Mistakes When Using Dry Shampoo
Using dry shampoo incorrectly can sometimes leave hair feeling heavy or looking dull. Avoid these common pitfalls:
- Applying Too Much: Overloading can make hair look powdery or feel stiff. Start with a small amount and add more only if needed.
- Skipping the Set Time: Letting it sit is crucial for absorption. Skipping this step can result in uneven application.
- Applying Too Close to the Scalp: Keep some distance when spraying to avoid concentrated product spots that might be harder to blend in.