Let’s face it—life doesn’t always allow for a daily hair wash. Between school runs, work meetings, workouts, and just trying to find a quiet minute to breathe, washing your hair can fall way down the priority list. That’s where dry shampoo comes in like a superhero in powder form.
But here’s the kicker: most store-bought dry shampoos are packed with questionable ingredients like butane, propane, and aluminum. Not exactly what you want sitting on your scalp all day. The good news? You can make your own natural, non-toxic dry shampoo at home in just a few minutes, using ingredients you probably already have.
Whether your hair is light blonde or deep brunette, there’s a homemade formula that will keep it looking fresh, volumized, and clean—without any harmful chemicals.
Why Make Your Own Dry Shampoo?
Dry shampoo isn’t just a lazy day hack—it’s a legit styling tool. It adds volume, texture, and helps extend hairstyles like curls or braids. But when you flip over the can and read labels like isobutane, talc, and synthetic fragrance, the convenience starts to feel a little less worth it.
Homemade dry shampoo lets you control every ingredient. It’s safer, cheaper (about 95% less than most commercial options), and fully customizable for your hair type and color.
The Natural Power Behind DIY Dry Shampoo
The foundation of any good dry shampoo is its oil-absorbing base. That’s how it zaps the grease from your roots and gives your hair that clean, airy lift. Here are the natural go-to ingredients:
- Arrowroot Powder – Light, silky, and super absorbent. Great for all hair types, especially blondes.
- Cornstarch (non-GMO) – A common alternative, but less favored due to GMO concerns.
- Cocoa Powder – Adds color for brunettes and smells like dessert.
- Activated Charcoal – A deeper tint option for black hair, with detoxifying properties.
Add a few drops of essential oil and you’ve just made your hair care smarter and safer.
DIY Dry Shampoo Recipe (for Light or Dark Hair)
Ingredients:
- 2 to 4 tablespoons arrowroot powder (use more for light hair, less if adding tint)
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder (optional—for medium to dark hair)
- 5 drops essential oil (lavender, rosemary, cedarwood, or peppermint are great options)
Tools:
- Small 4 oz glass jar
- Makeup brush for application (optional but super handy)
Instructions:
- Mix the arrowroot (and cocoa powder, if using) in a jar.
- Add essential oils and stir or shake well to combine.
- Use a makeup brush to dust the powder onto your roots and oily areas.
- Massage or brush through to blend. Style as usual.
Pro tip: If your hair’s extra dark and you’re worried about looking like you just powdered your wig, apply at night before bed to give it time to absorb and blend.
Want a Spray Version? Try Wet “Dry” Shampoo
Some people prefer a spray version that mimics the feel of an aerosol can. This one is perfect for that in-between stage when your hair needs a refresh but you want something lighter than a powder.
Spray Dry Shampoo Recipe:
- 1 cup warm distilled water
- ¼ cup arrowroot powder or non-GMO cornstarch
- ¼ cup vodka, rubbing alcohol, or witch hazel
- 5–10 drops essential oil
How to make it:
Mix everything in a small spray bottle and shake well. Spray onto roots, let dry, and style. Shake before every use to redistribute the powder.
This version dries quickly thanks to the alcohol and won’t leave any visible residue if applied properly.
Essential Oils: More Than Just Scent
Essential oils do more than make your hair smell like a day at the spa—they actually help improve scalp and hair health. Depending on your needs, you can choose:
- Lavender – Calming and helps promote hair growth
- Rosemary – Known for improving circulation and stimulating growth
- Cedarwood – Balances oil production and strengthens hair follicles
- Peppermint – Refreshing and helps with dandruff control
Add one or two oils to your dry shampoo for an easy way to care for your hair while you freshen it up.
Extra Tips for Grease-Free Days
- Keep a mason jar of arrowroot powder handy in your bathroom. It doubles as a dry shampoo and face powder.
- For dark hair, if you skip the cocoa powder, just give it some time to settle—no need to risk the “gray wig” look.
- Use dry shampoo before styling to help curls or braids hold better. Dirty hair = more texture!
Final Thoughts
Homemade dry shampoo is one of those simple swaps that can seriously upgrade your hair routine. It’s fast, customizable, non-toxic, and budget-friendly. Plus, you can whip up a batch in less time than it takes to scroll through social media.
Whether you’re trying to stretch a blowout, refresh post-workout hair, or just skip a wash day (or two), this DIY dry shampoo has got you covered—literally.
So, what’s your best haven’t-washed-my-hair-in-days trick? Try this natural option and let us know how it works for you!
