Batiste Dry Shampoo, Original Fragrance
Instant Hair Refresh
The vegan-friendly formula instantly absorbs dirt and grease while adding texture and volume. Easy to use and perfect for all hair types! Leaves hair feeling refreshed with a lovely subtle scent.
Batiste has been the top dry shampoo brand in the United Kingdom for over 30 years, and their original formula is still one of the best options available. It has a subtle scent with notes of lavender and musk, and the vegan-friendly ingredients absorb oils without leaving hair looking dry or dull.
It’s an excellent option for all hair types, and will add a bit of umph to your style in a flash. Applied in an easy-to-use aerosol can, simply shake the bottle well, hold 12 inches away and target the roots when spraying. Gently massage into roots to ensure it is evenly distributed and no white residue is left behind, then brush through to remove any excess process and add texture to your hair. Style as normal, and you're ready to go!
Key Features
- Light scent with notes of lavender, powder, and musk
- Vegan-friendly formula that applies easily
- Ideal for all types of hair
Not Your Mother’s Clean Freak Dry Shampoo
Fragrance-Free Freshing
Eliminate odor without masking in a heavy scent while absorbing excess oil at the same time! Stripped of irritants for those with sensitivities, easily go between washes while adding volume.
Clean Freak has an ingredient that eliminates odors, and while it still has a noticeable scent—and hey, that’s true of nearly all unscented products—it doesn’t have strong, irritating fragrances. Whether that’s an advantage or disadvantage will depend on your personal preferences, but if you’re looking for a simple product that strips out unnecessary irritants, Clean Freak delivers. This is perfect for anyone with a sensitive scalp.
Application couldn't be easier thanks the the aerosol can - simply shake, spray, let the product sit around 30 seconds to 1 minute for it to do its magic, then brush through to distribute the powder. Like our top pick, this dry shampoo also does a wonderful job of adding volume without leaving residue.
Key Features
- Contains no strong fragrances
- Odor Eliminator
- Absorbs oils without leaving much residue
Hair Dance Volumizing Dry Shampoo
Non-Toxic And Curelty-Free
All natural and eco-friendly, this dry shampoo contains no talc, parabens, or phthalates, effectively absorbing oil and adding volume without harmful chemicals.
Most of the dry shampoos on this list use aerosol delivery systems, which makes sense; propellants help to ensure even application, limiting residue. Unfortunately, those propellants—typically butane or propane—can sometimes irritate sensitive skin.
Hair Dance’s non-aerosol dry shampoo is an effective alternative, though there is a bit more of a learning curve to shake out and apply the perfect amount. Start with a very small amount, gently tapping the bottle to disperse the powder on the roots and gently massage it in. If your hair is very greasy, allow it to sit for a few minutes to fully absorb.
The small bottle size is perfect for those on-the-go!
Key Features
- Lavender scented
- Non-aerosol formula with no talc, parabens, or phthalates
- Adds volume without potentially harmful chemicals
Dove Refresh+Care Dry Shampoo
Absorb Oil While Adding Fullness
Dove knows a thing or two about personal hygiene, and their Refresh+Care instantly revives lifeless hair by absorbing excess oil while plumping hair with volume thanks to its weightless formula.
Dove Refresh+Care is one of the most popular dry shampoos on the market for a reason: It works remarkably well. It is a relatively powerful aerosol spray, so it applies quickly and doesn’t leave behind much of a powdery residue. Give it a few quick sprays, brush it in, and you’re ready to go.
The powder won't weigh down strands, aiding in extra volume, making this product perfect for those with fine hair. A lovely light scent aids in feeling hair is refreshed between washes.
Key Features
- Powerful spray applies quickly
- Fresh but not overpowering scent
- Extra volumizing properties
When you’re purchasing dry shampoo, you’ll want to research ingredients carefully. Here are a few key factors to consider.
Aerosol Propellants and Other Ingredients
Most dry shampoos use propellants like butane and propane, which allow for easier application. You can avoid these chemicals by choosing a non-aerosol formula, but propellants aren’t the only potential irritants. Some contain talc, silica, and other minerals with rough edges that can cause redness, itchiness, and other symptoms.
If you have skin sensitivities, look for simple formulas with limited ingredients. Consider non-aerosol formulas; they’re not quite as easy to apply, but they’re just as effective.
Fragrances
Most dry shampoos have fragrances, which can cause irritation to some users. A strong fragrance can also make a dry shampoo less desirable for regular use, so consider your preferences when ordering. When in doubt, look for unscented formulas or choose light floral scents that won’t be too obtrusive.
Other Tips
Once you’ve chosen a product, read the instructions carefully for the best results.
Dry shampoos can’t completely replace their liquid counterparts, but they’re an excellent tool for extending the time between full cleansings or quick touch ups. Since dry shampoos simply absorb excess dirt and oil, they don't remove it completely. Regular washing with water is still necessary.
