Dry shampoo is a fantastic product, typically formulated with starch to absorb sebum, the natural oil produced by your scalp that can leave hair looking greasy after a day or two without washing.

According to Gio Bargallo, a colorist at Rita Hazan in New York City, “The starch components absorb oil, providing a fresh, grease-free look.” This makes dry shampoo ideal for extending the life of blowouts and maintaining oil-free hair between washes. It can also add volume and texture during styling.

While it’s a miracle worker, proper application is key. Whether you opt for an aerosol spray, powder, or foam, there are common mistakes that can lead to issues like flakes, ashy roots, and dry-looking hair. Using dry shampoo correctly can save you significant time and effort when styling your hair.

1. Choose the Right Color.
   For those with dark brown hair, using a standard dry shampoo may result in dull roots and an unappealing white residue. Conversely, blondes using darker shades will also face discoloration. Select a tone that closely matches your hair color; some tinted formulas can even help hide gray roots in a pinch.
2. Shake It Well.
   Before applying dry shampoo, shake the bottle to mix the formula evenly. The starch in aerosol types can settle at the bottom, so shaking ensures optimal results.
3. Maintain Distance.
   “Hold the dry shampoo four to six inches away from your scalp,” advises Ardree Merriweather, Lead Educator at Drybar. Spraying from this distance allows the oil-absorbing starch to disperse evenly onto the roots. For powder formulations, apply sparingly near the scalp, avoiding the part to prevent a chalky appearance.
4. Keep It Moving.
   “Don’t spray continuously in one area,” cautions Merriweather. Concentrating too much product in one spot can make it difficult to blend. Instead, use a sweeping motion for an even, thin layer.
5. Target Greasy Areas Only.
   Avoid spraying dry shampoo all over; focus on the top few inches where oil is most concentrated. This prevents the lower sections from becoming stiff and lifeless. “Section your hair to expose the scalp and roots for targeted application,” suggests Bargallo.
6. Use Sparingly.
   While dry shampoo can refresh greasy hair, overusing it can leave your hair looking dull and lifeless. “Excessive use can lead to dry, gritty hair,” says Merriweather. Start with a light application and wait a few minutes before adding more if needed.
7. Allow It to Sit.
   After applying, resist the urge to immediately brush or shake it out. Let the product absorb for a couple of minutes to effectively soak up oil before massaging it in and combing through.
8. Massage It In.
   Once the product has had time to work, use your fingers to blend it into your scalp. This ensures it does its job and helps minimize any chalky residue. A brush or a hair dryer can also assist in removing excess product after it’s settled.
9. Limit Frequency of Use.
   “You can overdo it with dry shampoo,” warns Bargallo. It doesn’t clean your hair but adds a starchy layer to soak up oil. Using it too often can clog hair follicles, weakening hair and leading to potential issues like hair loss or skin conditions. Aim to use dry shampoo just one to two times a week, or two to three for particularly oily hair, as Merriweather suggests.
10. Consider Nighttime Application.
    According to GH Beauty Director April Franzino, applying dry shampoo at night can enhance its effectiveness. “Using it before bed allows your hair to absorb it overnight, so you wake up refreshed in the morning.”