The Ultimate List of Dry Shampoos (for every hair type)

Image: The Beauty Tonic

Dry shampoo is of utmost importance when it comes to hair care. We don’t like to wash our hair daily (nor is it good to), so in between shampoos, the best way to keep hair looking clean and vibrant is by using none other than dry shampoo. Of course, this comes as no surprise, as dry shampoo has been around for a while; however, these days, there are just so many choices, and it can get, well, rather confusing. There are options out there for all hair types, and it’s important to know what’s best for you, so we’re breaking it down.

Now, let’s first talk about the difference between texture spray and dry shampoo. According to Folica, a leading source for all things hair, “Much like dry shampoo, texturizing spray is applied to dry hair. However, instead of focusing the spray at the roots, it can be used all over. Because it doesn’t soak up oil as dramatically as dry shampoo, it will add a weightless texture that’s perfect for creating volume. Too much dry shampoo will weigh hair down, especially on thin/fine locks.” In other words, dry shampoo helps in between shampoos, and texturizing spray is more when we want to style our hair right after we’ve washed it.

In terms of the best ‘on a budget’ dry shampoo that you can find at a drugstore, our go to is Batiste. Simply put, this one really works, and it’s inexpensive.

We give the ‘best overall’ award to 3 different products: Klorane Dry Shampoo With Oat Milk is great for those with sensitive scalps. The oat soothes the scalp, all the while hydrating and volumizing the hair. Klorane Dry Shampoo With Nettle will go on white, but the color will disappear once you brush it through. This one contains nettle, a natural astringent that helps control those overzealous oil glands in the scalp. With regular use over time, hair actually becomes noticeably less greasy. And then there’s  Dry Bar Detox Dry Shampoo, which is great because it revives body in the hair while reducing oils AND it’s good for all shades of hair color.

Next up: volume. If you want volume in your hair, the best option for you is Sachajuan Volume Powder. The starches in it absorb oil and helps to volumize. It smells a bit powdery, and it really can be thought of as an oil-blotting sheet for your hair. It takes away that grease in seconds.

If you have dry hair, we recommend Amika Obliphica Perk up Dry Shampoo. It is lightweight and contains an oil which is naturally rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and healthy fatty acids. This basically means it’ll help your hair to be more hydrated and shiny (and you’ll notice less split ends).

If you want texture, there’s none other than the holy grail Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray. It is a 2-in-1 dry shampoo and texturizer. This product absorbs oil, adds body, and can also prep hair for updos.

If you want something to keep in your gym bag, go for the Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Dry Shampoo. This one, in fact, cleans your hair by using fast-acting powders, which soak up the oil, sweat, and odor. This one might leave a white cast in your hair, so wait 30 seconds after misting into your roots, then massage it in with your fingers or a brush.

If you’re between color visits, try the Bumble and Bumble Hair Powder in white, blondish, brown, or black. It will “adhere to the strands and camouflage the roots and grays while also nixing oil.”

Now, if you’re looking for something organic, go for the Lulu Organics Hair Powder, which also has a great scent OR the Rahua Voluminous Dry Shampoo, which is vegan and gluten-free organic, and it works.

If you want something light and refreshing, go for the Ouai Dry Shampoo.

And finally, if you have fine hair, your best bet is Kérastase Powder Bluff. While some dry shampoos do leave behind an icky residue, this one is translucent, feels like nothing, and leaves fine hair looking full and bouncy.

Shop some of our favorite dry shampoos, texturizing sprays, and powders below! As well, some favorite links on this must have product: Birchbox Top 10 List, RedBook Mag Reviews, Harper’s Bazaar List, and Huffington Post List.

SHOP!