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Want to hear a dirty(ish) little secret? Your hair doesn’t need to be washed every single day. It doesn’t even need to be washed every other day! If you’d rather hit the snooze button some mornings than lather, rinse and repeat, no one will be the wiser, with the help of the right dry shampoo.
“One of the reasons we need to wash our hair is because our bodies secrete natural oils from our scalp,” says Jason Lee, founder of acclaimed haircare line Mela & Kera and owner of Jason Lee Salon. “When people notice their hair feeling dirty or oily, they tend to just wash it with regular water, shampoo and conditioner to help keep the hair clean and fresh.” But for those days when you’re looking to preserve your blowout or you simply can’t be bothered, dry shampoo is the low-effort answer to fabulous-looking hair.
Not sure where to start with this handy hair hack? We’ve done the legwork to help you choose the best dry shampoos, one of which will surely become your “mane” squeeze. From selecting the right formula for your hair type to mastering the art of application, consider this your go-to guide for achieving flawless locks without the hassle of a traditional wash. Bad hair days? Never heard of ’em.
What to consider when buying dry shampoo
Hair type
Your hair type is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a dry shampoo, since different formulations cater to various hair textures and needs. If you have fine hair, opt for lightweight formulas that won't weigh it down. Thick or curly-haired types often benefit from dry shampoos that offer extra moisture and frizz control. If your hair tends to fall flat the moment you leave the house, look for volume-boosting dry shampoos.
Formulation
Dry shampoos come in a few different forms: aerosols, powders and foams. Aerosols are convenient for quick application and offer even distribution, while powders are great for targeting specific areas and adding volume. Foams provide a virtually weightless option ideal for those with fine hair.
Ingredients
A quick scan of the ingredients list will help you choose a dry shampoo that suits your hair type and needs. Look for options formulated without harsh chemicals, such as sulfates and parabens, especially if you have sensitive skin or a scalp that’s prone to irritation. Nourishing ingredients, such as argan oil, shea butter or coconut milk, will help keep dry or curly hair soft and manageable between washes. Other ingredients — including rice starch, oat extract and kaolin clay — offer extra benefits, such as oil absorption, hair detoxing and scalp-soothing properties.
Scent
Many dry shampoos are heavily fragranced, so it might take some trial and error before you find the formulation and scent combo that works for you. If you have sensitive skin or you’re prone to irritation, a fragrance-free option will be your safest bet. For those who love to wear perfume, unscented or lightly scented dry shampoos will help to ensure that the smell of your hair product doesn’t clash with your fragrance of choice.
Residue
One common concern with dry shampoo is the potential for white residue, especially on darker hair colors. Look for formulas specifically designed to minimize residue, or options that are made specifically for brown and black hair. Remember to follow application instructions carefully to avoid dry shampoo buildup.
Our top picks for the best dry shampoos
Best dry shampoo for daily use: Amika Perk Up Plus Extended Clean Dry Shampoo
amika Perk Up Plus Extended Clean Dry Shampoo 5.3 oz / 200 mL
Enriched with scalp-nourishing ingredients — including AHA mandelic acid, rambutan seed extract and arrowroot powder — Amika’s best-selling dry shampoo makes it easy to go longer between washes. The formula has been clinically proven to absorb and remove oil, leaving your hair fresh and clean without any build-up or bad smells.
Specifications:
- Size: 5.3 ounces.
- Scent: Vanilla, spicy sweet clover and citrus.
- Cruelty-free: Yes.
- Price on publish: $30.
What we like:
- Helps keep the scalp healthy.
- Talc-free formula doesn’t leave any white residue.
- Works for every hair type.
What we don't like:
- Some customers have experienced issues with the bottle nozzle.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
The perfect product for dry shampoo newbies and seasoned hair pros alike.
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Best dry shampoo for volume: Dae Fairy Duster Dry Shampoo
Dae Fairy Duster Dry Shampoo
When it comes to creating volume, this non-aerosol, invisible, dry shampoo powder packs a serious punch. After letting the concentrated powder sit for 15-30 seconds to absorb oil, massage it into your hair, style as usual and say goodbye to flat, limp locks. The formula contains Mojave yucca, a flowering desert plant known for its natural cleansing and exfoliating properties.
Specifications:
- Size: 1.06 ounces.
- Scent: Citrus, orange blossom and vanilla.
- Cruelty-free: Yes.
- Price on publish: $30.
What we like:
- Travel-friendly powder formula.
- A little goes a long way.
- Deliciously fresh scent.
What we don't like:
- Some users find it takes a while to blend the powder into the hair.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Pump up the volume on second-, third- and fourth-day hair with this oil absorbing dry shampoo powder.
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Best dry shampoo for cleansing: Living Proof Perfect Hair Day (PhD) Advanced Clean Dry Shampoo
Living Proof Perfect Hair Day (PhD) Advanced Clean Dry Shampoo
When customers describe a product as their “ride or die,” you know it’s going to be good. Living Proof’s PhD Advanced Clean dry shampoo has earned that distinction and more, thanks to its advanced formulation that mimics the cleansing process of a rinse-out shampoo. Not only does it soak up oil and sweat, but it also neutralizes odors and conditions the hair. Is it science or is it magic? Yes.
Specifications:
- Size: 5.5 ounces.
- Scent: Citrus.
- Cruelty-free: Yes.
- Price on publish: $33.
What we like:
- Balances the scalp’s sebum levels.
- Eliminates odors and leaves hair feeling fresh.
- Adds softness and shine to hair.
What we don't like:
- The strong scent won’t appeal to everyone.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
We’re not telling you to stop washing your hair altogether, but this is the next best thing.
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Best Dry Shampoo for Fine Hair: Kerastase Fresh Affair Dry Shampoo
KERASTASE FRESH AFFAIR DRY SHAMPOO
Thanks to its ultra-light powder spray and silicone-free formula, this dry shampoo from Kerastase won’t weigh down fine hair. It contains rice starch to absorb scalp oil and restore volume and bounce, plus vitamin E to help moisturize the hair and reduce breakage.
Specifications:
- Size: 5.3 ounces.
- Scent: Neroli oil.
- Cruelty-free: No.
- Price on publish: $39.
What we like:
- Gorgeous neroli scent that lasts all day.
- No white residue.
- Lightweight formula doesn’t dry out hair.
What we don't like:
- Might not work as well for thicker hair.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
A lovely smelling dry shampoo that’ll give fine hair a boost without weighing it down.
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Best affordable dry shampoo: Batiste Dry Shampoo Original Classic Clean
Batiste Dry Shampoo Original, Citrus, 162g/5.71 oz
Batiste’s award-winning dry shampoo is a bestseller for good reason. Not only is it highly effective at removing excess oil and grease at the roots, but it also revitalizes dull hair thanks to its revamped keratin-infused formula. Use it between washes to add texture and volume and give the hair a fresh, fuller appearance.
Specifications:
- Size: 5.71 ounces.
- Scent: Citrus, bergamot, lily and rose.
- Cruelty-free: No.
- Price on publish: $12.10.
What we like:
- Affordable and accessible.
- Can be used on all hair types.
- Clean, fresh scent.
What we don't like:
- Batiste participates in animal testing.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
At this price, you can keep one bottle at home, one at work and one in your car for freshened-up hair on the go.
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Best dry shampoo for oily scalps: Oribe Serene Scalp Oil Control Dry Shampoo Powder
Serene Scalp Oil Control Dry Shampoo Powder
A proprietary blend of starches and kaolin clay are the star ingredients in this dry shampoo powder from luxury haircare brand Oribe. The elegant, lightweight formula delivers heavy-duty results, absorbing oil, dirt and product buildup so you can go longer between wash days. It even contains the extract of cherimoya — a rare subtropical fruit — to rebalance the scalp and optimize hair health. Feel fancy yet?
Specifications:
- Size: 1.6 ounces.
- Scent: Jasmine and sandalwood.
- Cruelty-free: Yes.
- Price on publish: $46.
What we like:
- Talc-free, paraben-free formula.
- Regulates and prevents excess sebum and oil.
- Mattifies the scalp and supports a healthy scalp microbiome.
What we don't like:
- On the pricier side for dry shampoo.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
If your oily scalp has contributed to more bad hair days than good, this luxe dry shampoo is worth every penny.
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Best dry shampoo for dry hair: OGX Extra Strength Refresh & Restore + Coconut Miracle Oil Dry Shampoo
OGX Extra Strength Refresh + Restore Dry Shampoo + Coconut Miracle Oil 5 oz
Those of us with dry hair might not be frequent dry shampoo users — after all, the oil-absorbing products are, well, drying, and we have enough of that going on already. But for those occasions when our not-so-squeaky-clean hair needs a little boost, this dry shampoo from OGX is a surprisingly hydrating option that revitalizes dull, lifeless locks.
Specifications:
- Size: 5 ounces.
- Scent: Coconut milk, tangerine and vanilla.
- Cruelty-free: No.
- Price on publish: $13.95.
What we like:
- Infused with coconut oil, vanilla bean extract and essence of tiaré flower.
- Affordable price.
- Leaves hair feeling soft and silky.
What we don't like:
- Might be too heavy for those with fine hair.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
The ideal formula for anyone who usually finds dry shampoo too drying.
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Best dry shampoo for light hair: Verb Dry Shampoo Light Tones
Verb Dry Shampoo Light Tones
Any blonde worth her highlights knows that brassiness is anathema to good hair, and she’ll do anything to maintain her perfect hue. Things just got easier in that department thanks to this specialty dry shampoo from Verb, which features a purple-tinted formula to neutralize brass in blonde (and silver) hair. Speaking as a blonde: There’s nothing dumb about that!
Specifications:
- Size: 5 ounces.
- Scent: Grapefruit and oatmeal.
- Cruelty-free: Yes.
- Price on publish: $20.
What we like:
- Benzene-free formula.
- Contains pomegranate and bilberry extract, both high in antioxidants.
- Absorbs oil and adds light volume.
- No white residue.
What we don't like:
- Some customers felt that the benefits weren’t long-lasting.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
If you’re serious about maintaining your non-brassy blond hair, this is the dry shampoo for you.
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Best dry shampoo for dark hair: Moroccanoil Dry Shampoo Dark Tones
Moroccanoil Dry Shampoo Dark Tones
One of the trickiest things about using dry shampoo on darker hair is avoiding white residue, as so many options on the market leave a chalky white cast. Luckily, Moroccanoil has tackled the issue head-on with its dry shampoo for dark tones, which disappears instantly into the hair while absorbing oil and product buildup. Bonus points for that intoxicating Moroccanoil signature scent.
Specifications:
- Size: 5.4 ounces.
- Scent: Spicy amber and sweet floral notes.
- Cruelty-free: Yes.
- Price on publish: $26.
What we like:
- Contains rice starch to remove oil, buildup and odor.
- UV-protecting argan oil formula.
- Works on all hair types.
What we don't like:
- Some users find it takes a generous amount of product to work properly.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
A highly effective, residue-free option for those with darker hair, but the addictive scent alone is probably enough to make us buy it again and again.
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Best drugstore dry shampoo: Kristin Ess Style Reviving Dry Shampoo
Kristin Ess Style Reviving Dry Shampoo
This volumizing dry shampoo from celebrity hairstylist Kristin Ess’s namesake drugstore brand, works just as well on clean hair as it does on second- or third-day hair, adding texture and shine to a mane. You can use it for its oil-absorbing properties like a traditional dry shampoo, or keep it handy as a top-notch styling product in your haircare arsenal.
Specifications:
- Size: 4 ounces.
- Scent: Floral and fruity.
- Cruelty-free: Yes.
- Price on publish: $10.50.
What we like:
- Free of sulfates, parabens, phthalates and silicones.
- Vegan.
- Color- and keratin-safe.
- Lightweight formula.
What we don't like:
- Not everyone is a fan of the scent.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
As expected from one of our favorite drugstore brands, this Kristin Ess dry shampoo doesn’t miss.
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How we selected the best dry shampoos
To narrow down the very best dry shampoos for this guide, I consulted Jason Lee, renowned hair stylist and founder of award-winning haircare brand Mela & Kera, for his expert advice. Then, drawing on my two decades of experience as a beauty editor, I researched numerous dry shampoos and analyzed customer reviews that provided real-world feedback. By combining professional insights with consumer experiences, I curated a definitive list of dry shampoos to suit every hair type.
How does dry shampoo work?
“A dry shampoo is a powder that absorbs the scalp’s natural oils, which rebalances the hair, ultimately making it feel less oily,” says Lee. It makes the hair feel cleaner, he explains, which allows us to get away with washing it less frequently. Dry shampoos typically contain ingredients like rice starch, kaolin clay or talc that have absorbent properties. They work by soaking up excess oils on the scalp and hair — leaving behind a fresher, cleaner appearance — without the need for shampoo and water.
How to apply dry shampoo
According to Lee, the best way to apply dry shampoo is to separate your hair into different sections while either spraying or shaking the dry shampoo directly at the root of your hair (depending on whether you’re using an aerosol spray or a powder). “Focus specifically on the areas that are oilier and make sure you apply enough product to properly absorb the oil,” says Lee. “Then, use your fingertips to make sure the product is properly worked into your hair. Once you feel satisfied that the oils have been absorbed, take your blow dryer and blow off any excess powder residue, which will really help your hair feel cleaner.”
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
How often can you use dry shampoo?
“Dry shampoo is a tool to use and not a replacement for washing your hair,” says Lee. “Using dry shampoo once or twice a week is okay, but after seven to 10 days, you should really wash your hair with proper shampoo and conditioner. What you want to avoid is a continual build-up of dry shampoo on your scalp, which can clog your follicles. Dry shampoo is a helpful tool to extend the time between washes, not a replacement [for regular shampoo].”
What hair types and textures does dry shampoo work best on?
“Dry shampoos will work well with all hair types,” says Lee. “That said, people prefer different types of dry shampoos. Some dry shampoos are really soft in the hair and feel like almost nothing, whereas other dry shampoos are really starchy and give a firm hold. You need to play around with different ones to figure out which type you prefer.”
Lee also suggests paying attention to the recommendations on the packaging. “Keep an eye out for different hair types on the labels, which can help point you in a starting direction,” he says. “However, in my experience, it often comes down to trying out different options before landing on your favorite.”
Is dry shampoo safe to use?
“Aside from overusing dry shampoo and not washing it out properly, there has been recent discussion over an ingredient called benzene,” which was found in some dry shampoos, says Lee. “Benzene is considered to be carcinogenic, and when used day in and day out in a small bathroom, it can be harmful over time,” he says. Most dry shampoos that contained benzene have since been recalled, but “it’s always good to double-check and do your own research if this is of concern to you.”
AP Buyline’s content is created independently of The Associated Press newsroom. Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we might earn commissions from our partners’ links in this content. Learn more about our policies and terms here.