There’s more to a dry shampoo than just aesthetic before and after videos. They are a convenient and safe way to freshen up your hair without using water. Typically made of powders or starches such as cornstarch, rice starch, or oat flour, some may also contain ingredients like silica, baking soda, or talc to absorb excess oil and sweat from the scalp and hair. Additional ingredients like essential oils or fragrances may be added to mask any unpleasant odours.
These benefits of dry shampoo use can best be reaped once you ace how to use it. Here are some of our tried-and-tested tips.
1. Choose the right formula and timing:
A dry shampoo for oily hair will differ from one formulated for dry tresses or sensitive scalps. They also suit a variety of hair textures and colours, so make sure to pick one for your hair type. Always use it on a dry scalp, as dry shampoo used on wet hair can turn into a greasy mess. You can also apply dry shampoo before bed, which allows it to absorb excess oil overnight so you wake up with fresh-looking hair in the morning.
2. The right technique for the right result:
Shake the dry shampoo spray bottle well before use to ensure the powder is evenly distributed. Hold the bottle about 6 inches from your scalp and spray the dry shampoo onto your roots. You can section your hair and spray each section individually for better coverage. Let the dry shampoo sit for 2-3 minutes to absorb oil and dirt from your hair. Use your fingers to massage your scalp and distribute the dry shampoo evenly through your hair.
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3. Always brush out the excess dry shampoo:
Even the best dry shampoo can present a challenge when it comes to even application. Brush your hair to remove any excess powder and style it as desired. This will prevent buildup and make your hair look more natural. Spray dry shampoo onto your hairbrush to absorb oil, and freshen it between washes.
4. More is not more:
More dry shampoo doesn’t mean better results. Too much dry shampoo can leave your hair feeling weighed down and greasy. Only use a small amount at a time. Go in rounds, spritz and brush to achieve the desired level of freshness in your mane. You can spray it onto your hairbrush and brush it through your hair for even distribution and added volume.
5. Use between washes to style:
In addition to freshening up, dry shampoos can help add volume to your hair. Spray it onto your roots and massage it with your fingers, then flip your hair over and shake it out for added volume. You can also use it as a texturising spray to add texture and create beachy waves. Spray it onto your hair and scrunch it with your fingers to get the bombshell waves of your dreams.
While dry shampoo can benefit you in many ways, it should not be used as a substitute for regular hair washes as it does not clean your hair thoroughly. It is best to use dry shampoo as an occasional touch-up between regular washes, especially when you’re short on time.
