Best dry shampoos has become an essential beauty product for many people. Whether you’re trying to extend the time between washes, refresh your hair after a workout, or add some volume to your locks, the right dry shampoo can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll explore the 12 very best dry shampoos on the market today, each carefully selected based on hair type, concerns, and preferences. From the best overall choice to top picks for dark hair and curly hair, we’ve got you covered.
Best Dry Shampoo Overall: Klorane Dry Shampoo With Oat Milk (Nonaerosol)
The Klorane Dry Shampoo With Oat Milk consistently tops lists of the best dry shampoos, and it’s easy to see why. This non-aerosol powder formula effectively absorbs excess oil and dirt, leaving your hair looking fresh and clean without the need for water. The oat milk in the formula soothes and softens the scalp, making it suitable for all hair types, even sensitive scalps.
This dry shampoo is particularly useful for those who want a product that doesn’t leave any residue or buildup, even after several days of use. Unlike aerosol sprays, this powder can be applied more precisely, allowing you to control the amount you use. It’s a great option for anyone looking for a reliable, everyday dry shampoo that keeps hair looking fresh for up to five days.
Price: $24 at Amazon and Ulta Beauty
Best More-Expensive Dry Shampoo: K18 AirWash™ Dry Shampoo
If you’re willing to splurge on a high-end product, the K18 AirWash™ Dry Shampoo is worth the investment. Priced at $48, this luxurious dry shampoo uses innovative technology to neutralize odors and refresh hair. Unlike many dry shampoos, which come in powder form, this product is a spray that’s more like a lightweight hairspray. It leaves no white residue, making it ideal for those with darker hair or color-treated hair.
The K18 dry shampoo stands out for its ability to keep hair looking clean and fresh for several days, even after a workout. While it’s on the pricier side, many users find it’s a worthwhile investment for those special occasions when you need your hair to look perfect without a wash.
Price: $48 at Sephora
Best Volumizing Dry Shampoo: Drybar Detox Thickening Dry Shampoo
For those with fine or limp hair, the Drybar Detox Thickening Dry Shampoo is a game-changer. This dry shampoo not only absorbs oil but also adds significant volume and texture, making it perfect for those who want a little extra lift. The rice powder in the formula absorbs excess oil while adding a touch of grit, which makes styling easier.
Unlike some volumizing products that leave hair feeling heavy or sticky, this dry shampoo keeps hair feeling light and fresh, even after several uses. With its subtle vanilla scent and impressive volumizing effects, it’s a must-have for anyone looking to extend the life of their blowout.
Price: $28 at Target and Ulta Beauty
Best Less-Expensive Volumizing Dry Shampoo: Sexy Hair Big Sexy Hair Dry Shampoo
If you’re looking for an affordable alternative to the Drybar Detox, the Sexy Hair Big Sexy Hair Dry Shampoo is a fantastic option. Priced at $22, this dry shampoo offers excellent volume-boosting effects without breaking the bank. It’s perfect for those who want to add some lift to their hair before styling.
To get the most out of this product, apply it at the roots and let it sit for a few minutes before brushing through. This allows the product to absorb excess oil and add volume where you need it most. It’s a great option for anyone looking to achieve that “va-va-voom” volume without spending a fortune.
Price: $22 at Amazon and Ulta Beauty
Best Dry Shampoo for Dark Hair: Kristin Ess Style Reviving Brunette Dry Shampoo
For those with dark hair, finding a dry shampoo that doesn’t leave a white cast can be challenging. The Kristin Ess Style Reviving Brunette Dry Shampoo solves that problem with a formula that’s specifically designed for darker hair. This product has a brown tint that blends seamlessly with brunette hair, so you don’t have to worry about any unsightly residue.
In addition to its color-matching abilities, this dry shampoo also nourishes the hair with ingredients like rice starch and argan oil. These ingredients help absorb excess oil while also adding moisture and shine, making it an excellent choice for those with color-treated or heat-damaged hair.
Price: $15 at Target and Ulta Beauty
Best Dry Shampoo for Curly Hair: Hair by Sam McKnight Lazy Girl Dry Shampoo
Curly hair requires a little extra care, and the Hair by Sam McKnight Lazy Girl Dry Shampoo delivers just that. This ultra-lightweight dry shampoo is perfect for thick, curly, or kinky hair, as it absorbs oil without weighing down your curls. The translucent formula is designed to be light and airy, allowing your curls to maintain their natural shape and bounce.
With a fresh scent that includes notes of water lily, green stem, and juniper wood, this dry shampoo not only refreshes your hair but also leaves it smelling fantastic. It’s a great option for anyone with curly hair who wants to keep their curls looking fresh and voluminous without sacrificing moisture.
Price: $31 at Liberty London and Sam McKnight
Best Lightweight Volumizing Dry Shampoo: Redken Dry Texture Finishing Spray
If you’re looking for a dry shampoo that adds volume without weighing down your hair, the Redken Dry Texture Finishing Spray is a great option. This lightweight formula absorbs oil and adds texture, giving your hair a natural, voluminous look without any heaviness or buildup.
This product works best on second or third-day hair when you just need a little boost to get through another day without washing. It can also be used throughout the length of the hair to add texture and body, making it a versatile option for those who want a bit of extra volume and texture.
Price: $30 at Ulta Beauty
Best Texturizing Dry Shampoo: R+Co Skyline Dry-Shampoo Powder
For those who want a dry shampoo that also adds texture, the R+Co Skyline Dry-Shampoo Powder is a top pick. This powder formula contains diatomaceous earth, a powerful oil-absorbing ingredient that not only keeps hair looking fresh but also adds grip and texture to extend the life of your style.
This dry shampoo also contains jojoba-seed oil, which helps condition the hair and add a bit of shine, making it a great option for those with dry or damaged hair. The powder formula is concentrated, so a little goes a long way, and it can last for months, even with regular use.
Price: $34 at Amazon
Best Scented Dry Shampoo: Oribe Gold Lust Dry Shampoo
If you’re looking for a dry shampoo that smells as good as it works, the Oribe Gold Lust Dry Shampoo is a luxurious choice. This dry shampoo contains a blend of bamboo and rice silk, which work together to absorb oil and refresh the hair. But what really sets this product apart is its scent — a rich, luxurious fragrance that makes your hair smell like a high-end salon.
In addition to its incredible scent, this dry shampoo also adds a touch of shine and softness, making it a great option for those who want to refresh their hair without sacrificing moisture.
Price: $52 at Amazon
Best for Scalp Concerns: Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Biotin Dry Shampoo
For those with dry or flaky scalps, the Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Biotin Dry Shampoo is an excellent choice. This dry shampoo contains charcoal to absorb oil and impurities, while biotin helps strengthen and nourish the hair. It’s free from sulfates, parabens, and phthalates, making it a gentle option for those with sensitive scalps.
This product also contains tea tree oil and witch hazel, which help soothe the scalp and reduce irritation. It’s a great option for anyone who wants to refresh their hair while also addressing scalp concerns.
Price: $24 at Amazon
Best Dry Shampoo Foam: Ouai Dry Shampoo Foam
If you prefer a foam over a spray or powder, the Ouai Dry Shampoo Foam is a great option. This lightweight foam absorbs quickly into the hair, removing oil and adding volume without leaving any residue. It’s perfect for those with fine or limp hair who want a bit of extra body and lift.
The foam formula is easy to apply and works well for all hair types, making it a versatile option for anyone who wants to refresh their hair without using a traditional spray or powder.
Price: $28 at Sephora
Conclusion
Dry shampoo is an essential product for keeping your hair looking fresh between washes. Whether you’re looking for a product that adds volume, works for dark hair, or addresses specific scalp concerns, there’s a dry shampoo out there for you. From the top-rated Klorane Dry Shampoo With Oat Milk to luxurious options like Oribe Gold Lust, these 12 dry shampoos offer something for everyone.
By choosing the right dry shampoo for your hair type and concerns, you can keep your hair looking fresh, voluminous, and clean without the need for daily washes. Try one of these top picks to see the difference it can make in your hair-care routine.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is dry shampoo, and how does it work?
Dry shampoo is a product designed to refresh your hair without the need for water. It typically comes in a spray, powder, or foam form and works by absorbing excess oil and dirt from your scalp and hair, leaving it looking and feeling cleaner. Many dry shampoos also add volume and texture to your hair, making it a versatile styling product.
2. How often should I use dry shampoo?
Dry shampoo is a great way to extend the time between washes, but it shouldn’t be used as a permanent replacement for regular shampoo. Most people can use dry shampoo two to three times a week, depending on their hair type and scalp condition. Overusing dry shampoo can lead to product buildup and clogged hair follicles, so it’s important to wash your hair with water and regular shampoo periodically.
3. Will dry shampoo damage my hair or scalp?
Dry shampoo is generally safe for most hair types and won’t cause damage when used in moderation. However, overuse or improper application can lead to scalp irritation, dryness, and clogged pores. If you experience any discomfort or excessive buildup, reduce usage or switch to a gentler formula, especially if you have a sensitive scalp.
4. Can I use dry shampoo on color-treated hair?
Yes, many dry shampoos are formulated to be safe for color-treated hair. In fact, using dry shampoo can help extend the life of your hair color by reducing the number of times you need to wash your hair with water. Look for dry shampoos specifically designed for color-treated hair to ensure they won’t strip away your color.
5. What is the best way to apply dry shampoo?
To apply dry shampoo:
- Shake the bottle well.
- Hold it about 6-8 inches away from your roots and spray (or sprinkle, if it’s a powder) directly onto your scalp in sections.
- Wait a few minutes to let the product absorb the oils.
- Massage your scalp or brush through your hair to distribute the product evenly and remove any excess.
6. Can dry shampoo replace regular shampoo?
No, dry shampoo is not a complete replacement for regular shampoo. While it helps absorb oil and refresh your hair, it does not clean your scalp or remove all the dirt, sweat, and product buildup. Regular washing with water and shampoo is necessary to maintain a healthy scalp and hair.
7. Is dry shampoo safe for curly or textured hair?
Yes, many dry shampoos work well on curly or textured hair. However, it’s important to choose a product that is lightweight and won’t weigh down your curls. Look for dry shampoos that are specifically formulated for curly hair or those that contain moisturizing ingredients to keep your curls hydrated and bouncy.
8. Will dry shampoo leave a white residue on my hair?
Some dry shampoos, especially those in powder form, can leave a white residue if not applied correctly. To avoid this, make sure you hold the bottle at least 6-8 inches away from your scalp and apply in small sections. Many dry shampoos designed for dark hair or tinted formulas (like Kristin Ess Style Reviving Brunette Dry Shampoo) can also help prevent this issue.
9. Can I use dry shampoo on wet or damp hair?
Dry shampoo is designed to be used on dry hair. Using it on wet or damp hair won’t have the same effect, as the product won’t absorb the oil and dirt properly. If your hair is wet after a workout or shower, it’s best to let it dry completely before applying dry shampoo.
10. Is dry shampoo suitable for all hair types?
Yes, dry shampoo can be used on all hair types, from straight to curly, fine to thick. However, different formulas work better for specific needs. For example, volumizing dry shampoos work best for fine hair, while moisturizing dry shampoos are ideal for dry or curly hair. Make sure to choose a product tailored to your hair type for the best results.
