The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Dry Shampoo: What You Should Know and What to Look For

Key Details About Dry Shampoos

What constitutes a high-quality dry shampoo is undoubtedly subjective, depending on your objectives and the nature of your hair to begin with.

Washing your hair every single day can damage your scalp. That's where dry shampoo comes in. Dry shampoos not only absorb grease and sweat, but also impart a refreshing fragrance, making it an excellent trick to extend a blowout, refresh after exercising, or prevent hair color from fading away. However, not all dry shampoos are equal: here's what to consider before making a purchase:

Formulation: Do you desire a dry shampoo that comes in an aerosol spray, a powder, or perhaps even foam? Consider whether you prefer the convenience of a hands-off spray or the precision of applying the product directly to your hair with your hands.

Fragrance: Is your goal to have hair that smells freshly washed? Do you prefer a product with a stronger fragrance, or do you not care about the scent at all? Keep in mind that certain dry shampoos, like Dove's, possess a shampoo-like aroma, while others, like DryBar's and Living Proof's, have a distinctly more perfumed scent.

Volume: Are you aiming to add lift and texture to your hairstyle? Remember that the trade-off is typically a slightly gritty and starch-like feeling in the hair. Your hair will look amazing, but you may not want to run your fingers through it.

Cleanliness: If your goal is to have silky soft and touchable hair, make sure to choose a dry shampoo that doesn't claim to provide a lot of volume or texture. Oribe's Gold Lust or Moroccanoil are great examples of products that absorb oil and leave the hair feeling clean.

Qualities to Seek in Dry Shampoo

While you might occasionally come across a liquid dry shampoo, most commonly they come in either a spray can or as a powder. They function in very similar ways, so the best choice for you largely depends on personal preference. "Spray or aerosol dry shampoo absorbs oil and adds volume, but is typically better for thin and fine hair as opposed to a powder dry shampoo," says Fitzsimons. "If you have thick and oily hair, you may want to consider a powdery dry shampoo, as it allows for a more targeted application." 

The last thing you want is for your dry shampoo to leave behind a white powdery residue at the roots, so opt for one that blends seamlessly with your hair. "Some dry shampoos are transparent, while others leave a white powder on the hair that needs to be blow-dried to avoid any visible residue," says celebrity hairstylist Dimitris Giannetos. If you have very dark hair, you might want to consider a tinted formula.

In conclusion, finding the best dry shampoo for your hair can be a game-changer in your beauty routine. Whether you're in a rush, wanting to extend the life of your blowout, or simply looking to refresh your strands, there's a dry shampoo out there that's perfect for you. From the volumizing Olaplex No.4D Clean Volume Detox Dry Shampoo to the color-enhancing Moroccanoil Dry Shampoo Dark Tones, the options are endless. So say goodbye to greasy, lifeless hair and hello to the convenience and freshness of a high-quality dry shampoo. Trust us, your hair will thank you!