These are simple dry shampoo alternatives – many of which you likely have in your home already!
Key Insights
- Alternatives: Many effective dry shampoo alternatives can be found in your pantry.
- Safety: Dry shampoo is generally safe if made with natural ingredients and used in moderation.
- Common Options: Ingredients like cornstarch, arrowroot powder, and baking soda can serve as effective substitutes.
- Application Tips: Limit usage to twice a week to avoid buildup on the scalp.
As a Mom who is sometimes spinning more plates than she can count, dry shampoo has saved my greasy hair on more than one occasion. After I workout, dry shampoo is at the ready, when I travel, dry shampoo comes with me, before I press record, dry shampoo is applied.
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9 Dry Shampoo Alternatives
While it’s nice to have dry shampoo on hand, I know that I could easily grab an oil absorbing product right out of my pantry if I needed to. Did you know you can use arrowroot or cornstarch or even oat flour as a dry shampoo alternative?
Today, I’m sharing alternatives to dry shampoo, how they work and what to consider when using them.
What Is Dry Shampoo And How Does It Work
Dry shampoo absorbs excess oil keeping hair looking fresh in between wash days using ingredients such as rice starch, tapioca, or kaolin clay. It usually comes in the form of a powder or aerosol spray. Dry shampoo is sprinkled or spritzed on greasy roots and then massaged or brushed through distributing the powder evenly through the hair. Check out my favorite dry shampoo from Primally Pure here and use code GURLGONEGREEN10 to save 10% off!
Related Content: What Is The Best Natural Dry Shampoo
Is Dry Shampoo Safe
Dry shampoo is generally safe as long as they are fragrance-free and made with natural powders such as rice starch, kaolin clay or tapioca.
Baby powder is usually considered an alternative to dry shampoo; however, it’s not my favorite because it can contain talc. Talc may have asbestos fibers which can lead to lung disease including cancer.
It’s also important to note that aerosol-spray dry shampoos can be problematic because they can contain butane, propane, or benzene.
Dry shampoo if used frequently can clog hair follicles, creating build-up on the scalp or even irritation.
Try to limit dry shampoo use to twice a week and wash hair every 3-4 days to remove buildup. Apply dry shampoo to roots not the scalp.
Is There An Alternative To Dry Shampoo?
Yes, there are alternatives to dry shampoo and most can be found in your kitchen! These natural powders, sprays, and other products can help with oil absorption and scalp and hair refresh.
What Is A Good Alternative To Dry Shampoo?
Cornstarch
It’s great at absorbing oil and can add texture to hair. It is best for light to medium hair color. Sprinkle a small amount on your roots and brush out. Just be forewarned that it can leave a residue. Add essential oils for a fresh scent.
Arrowroot Powder
It is a great alternative to dry shampoo because it’s translucent and gentle on the scalp. Sprinkle on the scalp and brush out.
Baking Soda
This can be an effective option in a pinch, but it can leave a white residue on the hair if it isn’t brushed out really well. It’s important to note that if too much baking soda is used, it can irritate the scalp.
Oat Flour
Yes, flour can be used as a substitute for dry shampoo. Oat flour absorbs oil and soothes the scalp. Lightly dust over roots and brush out.
Cocoa Powder
This is a good option for darker hair or if you want some extra volume and a tasty scent! Mix with cornstarch or arrowroot to match your hair color.
Setting Powder
This is probably the least messy of all the options. Setting powder gives a polished look because it’s translucent and doesn’t leave behind any sort of residue.
Related Content: <em>Best Talc Free Setting Powders</em>
Apple Cider Vinegar
It helps regulate oil production and has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe the scalp. It does need to be diluted in order to use. Use one tablespoon per eight ounces of water. Spritz at roots, blow-dry, and brush out.
Tea Tree Oil
You can use 1 drop of tea tree essential oil along with 2 tbsp of arrowroot powder and 1 tbsp of cornstarch for a dynamic duo – a dry shampoo and a scalp cleanser. Use a small amount on roots then brush out.
Blotting Papers
These are great for areas like bangs, hairline, part line, where you don’t want to use a powder or spray. Simply apply paper to greasy roots for a quick touch-up. It’s nice to have a product that can be used on both the face and hair.
What is your favorite alternative to dry shampoo? Share below!
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