Is Dry Shampoo Bad for Your Scalp and Hair?
Whether we oversleep or start our workout late, we all have days when we go out without washing our hair.
Now comes our love for dry shampoo. Although its popularity has recently skyrocketed, it has been around since Victorian times. People have always wanted a quick way to keep their hair looking great. Here’s what you need to know about dry shampoo.
What is dry shampoo?
Dry shampoo is usually a spray or powder that absorbs excess oil, dirt, and grease to make your hair look cleaner. Dry shampoo is usually starch or alcohol based and does not contain water. It is not a true shampoo and it does not clean your hair. 1
Benefits of Dry Shampoo
Dry shampoo is so popular because it works. It saves time and allows you to quickly revitalize your hair during the day. But the benefits don’t stop there.
With dry shampoo, you can go without washing your hair every day and still look fresh. Your scalp and hair need the natural oils they produce, and washing your hair every day can strip away these oils, leaving your hair and scalp feeling tight and dry. Dry shampoo can help you go a day or two without washing your hair, preserving enough natural oils to keep your hair and scalp healthy. 6
Dry shampoo can add volume and texture to your hair, especially if your hair is thin and fine. Using dry shampoo instead of hairspray can help your hair hold its shape longer. 6
Dry shampoo ensures that the effects of hair care last longer. Whether you want to extend the effects of your blow-dry for a few days without washing it, or just to prevent your hair from being washed out, dry shampoo can help you keep your salon-ready look longer. Tinted dry shampoo can even be used to hide hair growth between coloring sessions. 6
Potential Risks of Using Dry Shampoo
Dry shampoo isn’t always all sunshine, flowers, and beautiful days. It’s important to know how to use it properly.
If you use dry shampoo in moderation and follow the instructions, you shouldn’t take any risks, but there are some things you should be aware of.
Not only is dry shampoo not a cleanser, it can also leave a residue on your hair and scalp. When this residue builds up, it can cause an itchy scalp or clogged pores or breakouts. 1
Clogged pores are a breeding ground for bacteria and yeast, which can lead to a scalp condition called seborrheic dermatitis, or a red, flaky scalp. Dandruff is not caused by dry shampooing, but rather by a lack of washing that causes the scalp to be too oily, which results in dandruff. 2
Infections affect the hair follicles, causing red, painful bumps where the follicles invade the scalp, a condition called folliculitis. Excessive use of dry shampoo can also cause the follicles to become dry and brittle. This can lead to hair breakage and hair loss. 2
In 2022, the Food and Drug Association found excessive levels of benzene, a carcinogen, in multiple brands of dry shampoo and called for a voluntary recall of the affected products. If you have dry shampoo purchased before 2023, you should throw it away. Look for the words “benzene-free” on the label, and avoid ingredients like butane, isobutane, or propane. 11
How dry shampoo affects different hair types
Since everyone’s hair is different, it’s important to care for your hair with products that are designed for your hair type.
Normal hair:
Normal hair is hair that has not been dyed, permed, straightened or chemically treated, and is not overly greasy or dry. Most dry shampoos keep normal hair in good condition between washes. 8
Oily hair:
Your body normally produces the oils your hair needs. If that’s more than you want it to feel like, we have good news. Dry shampoo is best for your hair and will allow you to go an extra day or two between washes. 8
Dry or damaged hair:
If your scalp and hair often feel tight or look dry, or if you typically perm, straighten or use harsh styling products or procedures to achieve your desired look, use dry shampoo with caution. Most dry shampoos contain ingredients that dry out your hair further, leaving your follicles weak and your hair breakage prone. You should wash your hair properly at least three times a week. 8
How to use dry shampoo safely
Follow these tips to get the best dry shampooing results while keeping your scalp or hair healthy. 1,2
Shake the product well before use and apply only to your hair, not your scalp.
Hold the spray at least 15cm from your head for even distribution.
Apply only to areas where oil is most noticeable – usually the temples or crown of the head.
Use your fingers to smooth the dry shampoo throughout your hair.
Be careful when styling with a straightener or curling iron. Heat combined with dry shampoo can damage your hair.
Do not use dry shampoo for more than two days in a row and no more than twice a week.
If your hair is dark, use a tinted product to prevent discoloration.
If your hair feels dry, stiff or grainy, you may have used too much product.
Tips for curly hair: Curly-haired people should apply the product to the base of the hair shaft and blend it in with your fingers. Do not comb your hair or apply dry shampoo directly to your curls. Instead, apply dry shampoo evenly and treat your curls with a smoothing or moisturizing oil to make them look luscious. 8
Expert Opinion
Dermatologists recommend following these tips for safe and effective use of dry shampoo. 4
It works best on fine, long hair that becomes frizzy after washing.
Be careful with homemade dry shampoos that contain cornstarch, which can breed bacteria and cause unpleasant odors.
Check ingredients before use to avoid allergic reactions. If your scalp feels tight or dry after using dry shampoo, choose a fragrance-free product.
Use only a small amount where needed. You can add more if needed.
Use the night before or before a workout so the product has time to absorb as much oil and dirt as possible.
Wash your hair regularly with water and shampoo to prevent infection, eliminate odor, and keep your hair in its best condition.
Stop use if you experience burning, itching, or irritation on your scalp. If the sensation doesn’t stop after shampooing, contact your dermatologist.
Avoid use if you have sensitive skin, dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, or other scalp conditions.
If you use prescription topical medications on your scalp, consult your dermatologist before using dry shampoo.
Dry shampoo is a great tool when you need it, but like any good tool, you’ll get the best results if you use it in moderation.
DQH Knowledge drop: In your 20s, your skin cell turnover decreases. (Cell turnover is a key component in keeping your skin youthful.) You know what else slows down? Your collagen production. Starting in your 20s, collagen decreases by about 1 percent per year. Should you want to prevent fine lines and wrinkles, start by eliminating behaviors that contribute to premature aging. “If it’s bad for you, it’s bad for your skin,” says dermatologist Michel Somenek.
“Cigarette smoking reduces blood flow to the skin and causes premature wrinkling and a dull skin texture. Making the repeated pursed motion to inhale can also cause smoker’s lines. Alcohol and recreational drugs are toxins for the skin that damage its cellular structure and DNA,” Somenek tells us. “The faster you eliminate vices while you are young, the better chance your skin and body have to recuperate.” Also, adopting an anti-aging routine in your 20s is key. After all, the best offense is a good defense. We spoke to Somenek and experts Joshua Ross and Audrey Kunin to find out more.
Keep reading for the best anti-aging products for your 20s, according to skincare professionals.
Sunscreen
“We all know that the sun is the number one cause of skin aging and starting the prevention in your 20s is very important,” Ross says. “The majority of your sun damage won’t start to appear until you’re in your 30s, so don’t wait until you see it surface or you’ll be behind the curve. Stay ahead of it with a good-quality zinc-based sunscreen worn daily.”
Farmacy Green Defense Daily Mineral Sunscreen
An invisible sunscreen with SPF 30, plus botanical extracts meant to protect skin with tons of antioxidants. Bonus: It’s clean and fine to use under makeup.
Bareminerals Complexion Rescue™ Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30
Although we recommend you use your SPF and moisturizer separately, we also understand moments when you don’t have time or energy for that extra step. For those times, this bareMinerals moisturizer is a great thing to have on hand.
Vitamin C Serum
“A great introduction to anti-aging is to start with a vitamin C serum in your morning skincare routine,” Ross says. “It’s a powerful antioxidant that will neutralize free radicals and brighten the skin.” He adds that it’s a great way to counteract the effects of the sun’s harmful rays, which, as previously mentioned, are among the biggest causes of premature aging.
Drunk Elephant C-Firma™ Vitamin C Day Serum
The Drunk Elephant C-Firma is a lightweight serum that promises to give skin a glow by combining the brightening powers of vitamin C with ferulic acid, l-ascorbic acid, and vitamin E. The included sodium hyaluronate is meant to replace hydration loss, so you shouldn’t have to deal with any irritation.
Sunday Riley C.E.O. Rapid Flash Brightening Serum
This potent serum is jam-packed with vitamin C (15 percent, to be exact), which means it’s a potential superstar at both brightening skin and dousing it in antioxidants.
Peptides
Using peptides on your skin has many benefits, says Somenek. “The skin barrier is what defends the body against pollution, UV rays, bacteria, and toxins. It can be damaged by several everyday factors. Using topical peptides aids in building a stronger barrier,” he says. “Peptides comprise elastic fibers, which are a type of protein. These fibers help to make skin appear taut and firm. Peptides can also help repair damaged skin, relieve inflammation, and even out skin tone. Some peptides can kill acne-causing bacteria that is common in 20-somethings.”
Kunin agrees, saying, “Peptides are an excellent entry point for supporting collagen.” She recommends looking for face and eye treatments that contain these collagen-boosting powerhouses.
Charlotte Tilbury Magic Eye Rescue Cream
This Charlotte Tilbury super-emollient eye cream has a base of coconut oil and shea butter (read: it’s incredibly hydrating). Botanicals plus peptides are meant to help reduce dark circles and boost collagen, respectively.
This creamy moisturizer serves up potent collagen-boosting peptides and pycnogenol, and antioxidant-rich vitamin C. “Instead of sitting on top of the skin, peptides penetrate the outer layer so they go deep. The ‘signals’ they send tell the cells to produce elastin and collagen, which are needed for youthful-looking skin,” explains Somenek.
At-Home Peel Pads
Remember that skin cell turnover fiasco we talked about earlier? One way to help support it is by exfoliating. “Exfoliation is important to help keep skin fresh and luminous,” Kunin says. She recommends using at-home peel pads as an easy and effective way to exfoliate.
“The goal in your 20s is to fight the slowing pace of cell turnover. It is wise to use products that gently exfoliate, yet still remove oil and other impurities. Products that have Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) or Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA) are a good choice.”
According to Somenek, you should only exfoliate two to three times a week. “People of all ages are guilty of over-exfoliating and that can be too much of a good thing,” he says.
Dermadoctor Kakadu C Intensive Vitamin C Peel Pad
A few swipes of this Derma Doctor powerful peel pad promise to leave your skin glowing and smooth, thanks to the seven (yes, seven) types of chemical exfoliants, including AHA and BHA. It also contains vitamin C via Kakadu plum extract for added brightening and antioxidant protection.
KEY INGREDIENTS Kakadu plum extract is sourced from the Kakadu plum, a fruit grown in northern Australia. It contains vitamin C, which restores the skin’s natural barrier, increases collagen production, and soothes irritation.
Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta® Universal Daily Peel Pads
These are the gold standard of peel pads, with a cult following and over 900 five-star reviews on Sephora. They’re easy to use and contain a blend of anti-aging exfoliating acids.
Emollient Night Cream
“In your 20s, you need to start upping the hydration in your skincare routine. You may have been cautious of over-moisturizing because of acne in your teens, but as you enter your 20s, your skin transitions and becomes drier,” Ross says. “I recommend an emollient night cream added into your evening skincare regimen.”
“Twenty-somethings need to make sure that they are not using creams that will clog their pores and cause excess oil production,” says Somenek. Opt for non-comedogenic products.
Cerave Skin Renewing Night Cream
One great choice is the CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream, which is a non-comedogenic night cream that leaves skin soft and glowy. It combines the moisturizing powers of ceramides and hyaluronic acid.
RoC Retinol Correxion Max Hydration Creme
“The best night cream ingredients contain retinol, benzoyl peroxide, and/or salicylic acid or hyaluronic acid. The goal is to moisturize, yet remove excess oil,” says Somenek. This Roc Retinol Correxion cream fits the bill as it contains both hyaluronic acid and retinol so it promises to moisturize while also being non-comedogenic.
