How to use dry shampoo properly, according to hair experts

“On those days where you think, ‘should I wash it or not?’ – that’s the perfect time. It will instantly refresh and revive your hair so it has that clean feel. But remember: it’s not clean. It now has a styling product in it that absorbs the excess oil. If you are looking at your hair and your first thought is ‘oh my, it really needs a wash’, you’ve gone past the point of effective use. In that instance, you should be cleansing your scalp for a healthy microbiome and healthier hair. Especially if you experience a dry, itchy, flaky scalp or are trying to promote healthier hair growth.”

Can you use dry shampoo two days in a row?

You can, if really necessary, but it’s worth noting that dry shampoo will only build up in the roots, unlike a traditional shampoo, so using it over and over isn’t a substitute for a good hair wash. Using it multiple days in a row is a no-no.

“Dry shampoo is best used as a refresher between washes,” says Ryan. “Using it two days in a row is fine occasionally, but it shouldn’t replace regular cleansing.”

Sam is even firmer. “From a scalp post of view, I wouldn’t recommend using it two days in row. If you’re relying on it constantly, it’s probably time to wash your hair. Healthy hair always starts with a clean scalp.”

What are the best dry shampoos?

The best dry shampoos are light and fine, refreshing the hair without weighing it down. Most users look for a formula that won’t leave a pesky white cast, and absorbs oil to leave the hair looking shiny and fresh.

“I prefer formulas with a fine, invisible mist and minimal residue; they absorb oils without dulling shine or feeling gritty,” says Ryan. “Most use starches (rice or corn) or clays to absorb oil. Look for lightweight starches. Avoid heavy talc, excessive fragrance, or alcohol if you have a sensitive or dry scalp.”

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Is dry shampoo for all hair types?

Technically, anyone can use dry shampoo, but certain hair types may need to be more cautious when it comes to build-up. “Very dry, curly or sensitive scalps should use it sparingly, as it can cause dehydration or buildup if overused,” says Ryan.

“Anyone can use dry shampoo, it’s all about finding the right one for your hair type and texture,” adds Sam. “But I would caveat this by saying dry shampoo is essentially a product that’s made to absorb oils, which is essentially moisture. For those with dry hair or a dry scalp, I wouldn’t use this daily. A quick fix once in a while is fine, but a good cleansing regime should keep your hair nourished.”

It’s also worth noting that if you’ve got coily or textured hair and use styling products like gels and curl creams, the dry shampoo may sit on top of them and cause a white cast.

Can you use dry shampoo to add texture and volume to hair?

On some hair types, dry shampoo can add texture and volume to the hair, but as a rule it’s better to use a specific styling spray to achieve these results. “Dry shampoo will naturally give the illusion of more volume to fine hair, but they don’t contain ingredients such a polymers that will hold the hair in place,” says Sam. “The volume you are getting is from the loss of excess oil and also the soft texture dry shampoo leaves behind. Products are created and formulated to give you the best outcome for what you are looking for, so choose the product that’s made for your goal, rather than one that made to do something else.”

Marlon adds that he does occasionally like to use dry shampoo to add fullness to ponytails, however. “I love using a tinted dry shampoo on brunette ponytails. Sometimes our hairlines are slightly finer. I use a brunette dry shampoo to slightly fill in the fine areas, making it look denser and giving the ponytail a thick, snatched appearance,” he says.