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Dry shampoo was created for one simple purpose: to revive day (or days)-old hair. For a while, that’s all dry shampoo was intended for and marketed to do. But as demand for the time-saving product developed, so did the formulations.
No longer is dry shampoo just a white-powder product that soaks up oil. Now, there are tinted sprays, powders that add lift, and foam that gives hair shine. The dry shampoo game is changing, and it’s time to adjust your mindset to meet all the possibilities. To that end, here are seven beauty industry-favorite dry shampoos that do a lot more than just refresh hair (though of course, they do that well, too.)
Philosophy Pure Grace Dry Shampoo, $24
Sometimes, day-old hair doesn’t only look less-than, but it smells a little… off. This simple dry shampoo emits a clean, crisp scent that’s the same as the perfume. If you’re someone that likes to spray a little perfume in your hair, this is a better way to do it, as the alcohol in perfumes will dry you out.
Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Dry Shampoo, $22
This dry shampoo is a personal favorite and a class act. There are some dry shampoos that require a lot of product to actually make a difference within the hair, especially when it’s fine and oil-prone hair. However, a few sprays here go a long way; not only does hair look cleaner, but it feels clean as well. Plus, there’s no extra buildup of product. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself washing your hair less.
Ouai Dry Shampoo Foam, $28
This buzzy new innovation from the famed Kardashian hairstylist, Jen Atkin, is the first of its kind. While powder formulas can give hair a dull, matte finish, this foam formula actually adds shine. It’s also great to achieve piece-y, messy texture that looks cool and carefree.
Bumble and Bumble Prêt-à-Powder, $13
If you have ultra-fine hair that sits flat, this is the dry shampoo of your dreams. The loose powder gives hair great lift and volume right at the root. Not only does it look more voluptuous, but it feels thicker as a whole. If fine hair causes your top knots to look a little lean, add this powder to the roots and brush through; you’ll get a bun that looks a lot more full.
Alterna Caviar Sheer Dry Shampoo, $25
Most powder formulas just come loose, which makes it easy to add too much and harder to evenly distribute. But thanks to the dispenser on this powder spray, that problem is solved. Alterna’s Caviar dry shampoo dispenses a sheer powder that’s so lightweight, it feels like air. This nozzle turns the powder into a mist that sprays evenly throughout the roots, the same way an aerosol would.
Dove Refresh + Care Shampoo, Volume & Fullness, $4
A higher price doesn’t always indicate a better product; at just under five bucks, Dove’s Refresh + Care shampoo is a cheap drugstore favorite. While the Bumble and Bumble powder adds tons of lift at the roots, this gives hair volume throughout the ends.
Klorane Dry Shampoo with Oat Milk, $20
Klorane’s dry shampoo has been a cult favorite since it launched in 1994. The oat milk contains protective properties and soothes damaged hair — it doesn’t just clean up oils and deliver healthy ingredients. Another bonus: There’s a tinted version that uses the same soft formula, so those with darker strands don’t have to worry about any white residue at the roots.