Dry Shampoos

Why use a dry shampoo?

Refresh hair between washes naturally

Dry shampoos are designed to absorb excess sebum from the scalp using light powders such as rice, oat or corn starch. They’re ideal for grease control, giving your hair a clean, fresh feel without stripping it of natural oils. Perfect for mornings when you’re short on time or after a workout, they help maintain volume and shine effortlessly.

Regular use also helps protect hair colour by spacing out traditional washes — a great tip for maintaining dyed or highlighted hair.

Add instant volume and texture

If your hair tends to fall flat, a volumising dry shampoo can give it that salon-style bounce. By lifting the roots and adding grip, it helps achieve a fuller, more texturised look that lasts throughout the day. Ideal for fine or limp hair, it also doubles as a styling product for quick touch-ups between washes.

Which dry shampoo for your hair type?

Best dry shampoo for oily roots and fine hair

If you struggle with oily roots or lack of volume, choose a lightweight formula enriched with absorbent ingredients like rice or clay. These sprays help refresh the scalp while keeping the lengths airy and soft. Avoid heavy textures, and focus on products that leave no residue. Explore more targeted care in our Oily Hair selection.

Best tinted dry shampoo for dark hair

Dark hair can sometimes look dull after a traditional dry shampoo, as white powder residues may appear on the scalp. Tinted dry shampoos are designed to blend seamlessly into darker tones while maintaining a natural finish. Try Batiste Brunette Dry Shampoo — its brown tint refreshes and revives darker hair shades instantly, avoiding any white cast. Perfect for brunettes and black hair, this formula absorbs oil and revives colour vibrancy.

Gentle options for a sensitive scalp

Those with a sensitive scalp should look for sulphate-free and fragrance-minimal options that won’t irritate the skin. Gentle ingredients such as oat or plant extracts provide a soothing cleansing effect without discomfort. A great choice is the Klorane Oat Milk Dry Shampoo, which softens and refreshes hair while maintaining balance on delicate scalps. For expert advice on scalp health, visit the British Association of Dermatologists (BAD).

How to use dry shampoo correctly (and avoid residue)

Application tips for best results

To get the best out of your dry shampoo, shake the can well and spray from about 20–30 cm away, targeting the roots in short bursts. Let it sit for one to two minutes to absorb oils, then gently brush through to distribute the product evenly.

Avoid using too much product or spraying too close to the scalp — this is the most common reason for visible residue. For a detailed step-by-step guide, see our article How to use dry shampoo without residue. You can also find more advice from the NHS on maintaining healthy hair habits.

How often should you use dry shampoo?

Dry shampoo is a great tool, but moderation is key. Using it two to three times per week is ideal for most hair types. Overuse can lead to product buildup and may weigh hair down over time. Always alternate with a gentle, hydrating shampoo to keep your scalp balanced and healthy.

Our best-selling dry shampoos

• Batiste Brunette Dry Shampoo — tinted formula for dark tones, controls grease and revives shine.

• Klorane Oat Milk Dry Shampoo — ultra-soft, soothing and suitable for sensitive scalps.

• René Furterer Naturia Dry Shampoo — sulphate-free, with botanical ingredients that leave hair light and fresh.

• Centifolia Raspberry Powder Dry Shampoo 50g — natural powder texture, absorbs excess oil, and purifies the scalp.

• Phyto Gentle Dry Shampoo – All Hair Types 75ml — lightweight, natural ingredients and suitable for daily refreshes.

FAQs — Everything you need to know about dry shampoo