Dry shampoo is convenient to help control oily scalp and mask sweat odors. It's handy to have a bottle for days you don't shower or need a quick refresh after a workout. However, with so many products on the market from brands like Batiste, Klorane, and Living Proof, it can be tough to decide which one best suits your hair.
We've compared 12 bestselling dry shampoos available online and tested them to recommend the best one for you.
We tested each product for the following:
Which product ended up being the best of the best? In our buying guide, we'll also tell you how to pick the best dry shampoos on your own, so read on for more shopping tips.
Eiichi Ishikawa is a first-generation olfactory measurement operator, which is nationally recognized in Japan, making him an expert on smells. Eiichi is also a licensed odor control advisor. After working at two companies specializing in odor control, Eiichi launched his own firm as an odor detective, working with various TV shows, magazines, and major companies to test the deodorizing properties of various products as well as provides technical guidance.
She joined a Japanese beauty company as a new graduate and worked there for three and a half years. She counseled over 6,000 people annually and created personalized beauty regimens for each customer. She then joined mybest, where she has written articles covering everything from makeup to skincare. She is a cosmetics concierge, a specialist in cosmetic ingredients, and a certified image consultant.
An essential factor to consider when using dry shampoo as a substitute for washing your hair is its ability to mask scalp odor. We applied a simulated sweat odor to artificial skin and hair to evaluate this. Then we tested how well each dry shampoo masked the smell with the help of odor assessment expert Mr. Eiichi Ishikawa.Points of Evaluation for Odor CoverageHow well odors were suppressed immediately after applying and after 15 minutes.
When using dry shampoo, you probably wonder if it leaves the scalp oil-free and if it gives your hair a lift. To evaluate this, three straight-haired and three wavy-haired participants used the products and assessed the finish based on the following points.Did it remove oil?Did it improve volume?
If you're using dry shampoo to refresh your scalp, you want a clean, fresh feeling after use. To evaluate this, three straight-haired and three wavy-haired participants used the products and assessed how refreshed their scalp felt based on the following points.Was there a refreshing sensation on the scalp?Was there oily residue remaining, and did the scalp feel clean?
Since you may be using dry shampoo several times a week, choosing one with a pleasant smell is best. Three straight-haired and three wavy-haired participants used the products and assessed the scent based on the following points to evaluate this.Did you like the scent?Did your hair smell nice after application?
Applying dry shampoo can be stressful if the container is a hassle to use. It's better to have a product that's easy and stress-free to apply. To evaluate this, we compared the ease of opening the container and dispensing and applying the shampoo. The criteria for each are below.Ease of applyingDoes it spray on, and if not, can it be applied with one hand?Ease of dispensingCan it be easily dispensed with one finger?Ease of openingCan the lid be opened easily without reading the instructions?
All product tests
were conducted in-house at mybest
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.The mybest team independently conducts its own tests to rank products.
We do not guarantee any of the results or features explained in our buying guide. Please reference each product's official description when making your purchase.
Table of Contents
Dry shampoo absorbs sweat and oil from the scalp without water and masks odors with a fragrance. It helps maintain hairstyles by absorbing excess oils, making it useful when you don't wash your hair or after sweating from sports. However, it cannot remove dirt like regular shampoo, so it's best used to control oiliness temporarily or refresh your hair.
Our test results show that most products were rated highly for their ability to mask unpleasant odors. But of course, they all smell different, so you need to find a scent you like. And there were noticeable differences in how our test subjects' hair looked after using them. Keep reading for tips to determine which product is right for you.
Dry shampoo uses powder to absorb oils, so excessive use may dry out the scalp. How often you should use one will vary depending on your skin type. Daily usage should be fine for those with an oily scalp prone to greasy buildup if you don't have any scalp issues. On days when the temperature and humidity are low, or you don't sweat or exercise much, give your scalp a break from the product.
If you have a normal or dry scalp, you should be fine using dry shampoo two or three times a week. However, those with a dry scalp should check for dandruff or dry patches and avoid using a dry shampoo if those concerns are present.
Recently, some dry shampoo products have been voluntarily recalled due to the detection of carcinogenic substances.
None of the products in our ranking have been recalled, but if you are concerned, please check the official websites.
Here are the points to remember when choosing the best dry shampoos.
If you primarily want a dry shampoo to cover odors on your hair or scalp, remember these tips to help you choose the right one.
If you're concerned that your scalp smells of sweat or oil, select a product with powerful odor masking. Our tests revealed that amika's Perk Up Talc-Free Dry Shampoo and Drybar's Detox Clear Invisible Dry Shampoo were best at masking odors among the products in this article. Both products efficiently conceal sweat odors with a pleasant scent and are great for people who shampoo less frequently or those looking to fully mask sweat smells after exercise.
If you want to mask odors but don't want to replace them with a stronger perfume smell, we recommend products categorized as fragrance strength one or two. Products in this group tended to have refreshing and milder scents. Although a more potent fragrance can provide better masking, if you don't like strong scents, choose a product with moderate masking power and look for the ones we marked fragrance strength level one or two.
Consider an aerosol or spray type if you're looking for a dry shampoo that provides a refreshing scalp sensation. These options deliver a stronger spray, giving a revitalizing feeling to the scalp.
Powder types don't offer the same refreshing effect as aerosols and sprays due to their gentler application method and absence of moisture. Powder types are a good choice for those who want to pinpoint specific areas. Spray types are easier to apply, as you can use one hand to spray and the other to rub it in.
If you're worried about sticky scalp buildup or want to create more volume, look for products that will leave your scalp feeling fresh and help lift your hair.
If you tend to sweat a lot or are concerned about scalp buildup, Drybar's Detox Clear Invisible Dry Shampoo is a good choice for reducing stickiness and leaving your scalp clean-feeling. While more powder can absorb more oiliness, powder residue on the scalp can sometimes prevent a refreshed feeling and detract from a clean sensation. So, whether or not a product leaves a powdery residue is an essential factor to consider.
Drybar's Detox Clear Invisible Dry Shampoo received positive feedback from our testers for eliminating stickiness and leaving no residue, resulting in a fresh-feeling scalp. Check out this product if you want to refresh your scalp and effectively absorb excess oil.
If your hair tends to look flat and you're concerned about volume loss, Batiste's Original Classic Fresh is recommended for giving hair a lift to preserve your hairstyle. Our testers praised Batiste's Original Classic Fresh for adding a natural lift to the hair at the roots. This product is perfect for maintaining your hairstyle when you don't wash it or after exercising.
A dry shampoo won't be rinsed off after you apply it, and some can leave visible residue or flakes.
Dry shampoos absorb oil using powder, which can sometimes leave residue on dark hair. Those with black or brunette hair should choose products with a powder color close to their hair color.
Although brushing can help white powder blend into the hair, be thorough, as residue can look like dandruff. Those who use the product on the go without access to a mirror or brush should choose a product that is less likely to leave a visible white residue. Some products come in color variations for different hair colors, so check when purchasing.
Knowing if the product blends well with your hair without leaving a white residue is essential. In this test, we tried all products on black hair and checked how well they blended both immediately after application and after brushing. Check the photos in our ranking to see how each product performed.
Blondes can use a spray with purple pigment to reduce brassiness and achieve a vibrant finish. One of the products in our ranking, Verb's Dry Shampoo for Light Hair, contains purple pigment. Its slightly purple hue sprayed on blonde hair neutralizes yellowness and gives the hair a brighter tone. This is recommended for blondes who want to use a dry shampoo and still maintain a beautiful hair color.
If you want to apply your dry shampoo quickly, choose a product that allows for brushing immediately after application. It's nice to be able to quickly style your hair after using dry shampoo, especially after a workout or on busy mornings. Some products require waiting several seconds to minutes before brushing, so check whether it can be brushed in immediately.
We do not guarantee any of the results or features explained in our buying guide. Please reference each product's official description when making your purchase.
Type | Spray |
---|---|
Recommended hair type | All hair types |
Fragrance Intensity | 4 |
The Drybar Detox Clear Invisible Dry Shampoo refreshes hair by absorbing dirt and oil, giving hair a soft, vibrant finish. The product is suitable for all hair types and is cruelty-free. In our masking power test, it received high marks for effectively masking sweat odor immediately after application and 15 minutes later. The fragrance strength was rated level four immediately after application, and decreased to level three as time passed, blending with the hair. Some testers noted that the strong vanilla and coconut scent left the hair with quite an intense smell. This product may be a good option if you’re looking to use it in place of a perfume.
The powerful spray provides a refreshing sensation, and its ability to effectively absorb oil contributes to a lasting feeling of freshness. It also eliminates stickiness and leaves the scalp feeling smooth with no powdery residue, making it pleasant to use. When applied, it gives the hair a natural boost in volume. It eliminated flatness at the roots and gave the hair a nice smooth finish without any dryness. This was our top choice for dry shampoos, recommended for those who want to effectively mask scalp odor while maintaining body and volume to their hairstyle without stickiness.
Category | Cosmetic |
---|---|
Volumizing Effect | - |
Certified Organic | N/A |
Natural ingredients | Potato starch, kiwi extract, amla oil |
Absorption time | 0 mins. |
Type | Spray |
---|---|
Recommended hair type | All hair types |
Fragrance Intensity | 2 |
Ouai's Super Dry Shampoo is recommended for those who value both odor masking power and a product that’s a joy to use. In our odor masking power test, it was rated highly for effectively masking sweat odor both immediately after application and 15 minutes later. The product tends to control hair odor rather than scalp odor, so it’s a good option for those concerned about hair odor after sweating. The rose scent was quite strong immediately after application, but it blends in over time, turning into a cheerful fragrance.
The sensation on the scalp was mixed, with some testers saying it felt refreshing and others saying it left a sticky residue. On the other hand, the overall ease of application and refreshing scalp sensation were strengths. But if the spray isn’t blended well, some oiliness can remain, so it is important to brush it thoroughly to blend it.
Category | Cosmetic |
---|---|
Volumizing Effect | - |
Certified Organic | N/A |
Natural ingredients | Rice starch, minerals, Rhodiola rosea extract |
Absorption time | 0 mins. |
Type | Spray |
---|---|
Recommended hair type | All hair types |
Fragrance Intensity | 0 |
Klorane's Dry Shampoo contains natural ingredients such as organic oat milk and corn and rice starches. This product is recommended if you prefer a milder scent and a refreshed feeling on your scalp. In our odor masking test, it did better at masking sweat odor 15 minutes after application than immediately after. The subtle, sweet, and refreshing scent was well-received by testers as mild and pleasant to use. As the scent disappears over time, this product is suitable for those who want to enjoy the fragrance only during application.
While the immediate cooling sensation was refreshing, it didn’t last, which was a drawback. However, testers appreciated the refreshing feeling and the lack of powdery residue. The product provided a boost in volume for those with thin hair, but those with thicker hair may not experience as much lift.
Category | Cosmetic |
---|---|
Volumizing Effect | - |
Certified Organic | N/A |
Natural ingredients | Rice starch, oat milk, minerals |
Absorption time | 2 mins. |
Type | Spray |
---|---|
Recommended hair type | All hair types |
Fragrance Intensity | 1 |
Perfect Hair Day (PhD) Dry Shampoo by Living Proof comes in stylish packaging that adds to its appeal. This dry shampoo is great for those who want to mask scalp odors and effectively absorb oils for a refreshed feeling. In our odor masking power test, the product earned high praise for effectively masking the sweat odor on both artificial skin and hair. Interestingly, it masked the sweat odor even better 15 minutes after application, and the refreshing citrus scent became more pronounced.
Testers commented that it had a "mild, refreshing scent reminiscent of body soap." This product is recommended for those who prefer a subtle and refreshing fragrance. Although the product is easy to apply to the entire scalp and gives a refreshing sensation when spraying, the freshness doesn't last very long. The powder tends to remain on the scalp, so it is important to brush thoroughly. The high powder content can effectively absorb excess oils, but it may cause the hair to feel slightly dry.
Category | Cosmetic |
---|---|
Volumizing Effect | - |
Certified Organic | N/A |
Natural ingredients | Rice starch, mineral blend |
Absorption time | 30 secs. |
Type | Spray |
---|---|
Recommended hair type | Straight hair, Wavy hair, Curly hair |
Fragrance Intensity | 1 |
Verb's Dry Shampoo for Light Hair is made with pomegranate extract, bilberry extract, and rice starch. The shampoo comes in two types, one for light hair and another for dark hair. In odor masking tests, the shampoo effectively masked sweat odors better after 15 minutes than immediately after application. The subtle and refreshing citrus scent was well-received by testers.
While some testers reported a refreshing and revitalizing sensation when spraying, others noted a sticky residue. The shampoo did not make the scalp feel very refreshed, but it did lift and reduce stickiness at the roots. In addition, the product contains purple pigments, which can help reduce brassiness and brighten blonde hair.
Category | Cosmetic |
---|---|
Volumizing Effect | - |
Certified Organic | N/A |
Natural ingredients | Pomegranate extract, bilberry extract |
Absorption time | 0 mins. |
Type | Spray |
---|---|
Recommended hair type | - |
Fragrance Intensity | 4 |
Perk Up Talc-Free Dry Shampoo by amika is a talc-free product containing nutrient-rich sea buckthorn and natural rice starch. This product is recommended for those who want to mask scalp odors with a sweet fragrance and be left with a refreshed feeling. In odor masking tests, the shampoo controlled sweat odors well, both immediately after application and 15 minutes later.
Despite its high masking power, the floral scent is quite strong, so it may not suit those who don’t care for sweet-smelling scents. The shampoo has a powerful spray that penetrates to the scalp and refreshes it, but it does not blend well, which is a drawback. Although the scalp feels refreshed, the powder clings to the hair a bit too much, limiting any boost in volume.
Category | Cosmetic |
---|---|
Volumizing Effect | - |
Certified Organic | N/A |
Natural ingredients | Rice starch, sea buckthorn |
Absorption time | 0 mins. |
Type | Spray |
---|---|
Recommended hair type | All hair types |
Fragrance Intensity | 2 |
Moroccanoil's Dry Shampoo Dark Tones is made with rice starch. There are two types available, one for dark hair and one for light hair. The shampoo effectively masked sweat odors both immediately after application and after 15 minutes. Opinions on the sweet scent were divided, with some describing it as "soft, elegant sweetness," while others found it "potent and spicy." The scent lingers in the hair, which may be fine if you prefer sweet fragrances.
One nice feature is the refreshing sensation on the scalp after application. Although it doesn’t seem to add much volume, the spray easily penetrates to the roots, giving the scalp a clean and refreshed feeling.
Category | Cosmetic |
---|---|
Volumizing Effect | - |
Certified Organic | N/A |
Natural ingredients | Rice starch, argan oil |
Absorption time | 0 mins. |
Type | Spray |
---|---|
Recommended hair type | - |
Fragrance Intensity | 1 |
Batiste's Original Classic Fresh is a British-made dry shampoo that uses rice powder and comes in a distinctive, colorful spray can. Odor masking tests showed average results, with sweat odors remaining both immediately after application and 15 minutes later. Over time, the sweat odor mixed with the product's fragrance, creating a chemical-like smell. The fragrance itself is a faintly sweet, refreshing citrus scent is a good fit for those not so concerned about scalp odor.
The shampoo offers a refreshing sensation during application but lacks lasting freshness. The spray lifts hair naturally from the roots, making it ideal for maintaining your hairstyle. While it absorbs oils and leaves the scalp feeling refreshed, applying too much can cause hair to become dry and frizzy. Adjust the amount applied as needed.
Category | Cosmetic |
---|---|
Volumizing Effect | - |
Certified Organic | N/A |
Natural ingredients | Rice starch |
Absorption time | 0 mins. |
Type | Spray |
---|---|
Recommended hair type | All hair types |
Fragrance Intensity | 1 |
The Gold Lust Dry Shampoo from Oribe features a weightless, translucent powder. In addition to the regular size, it also comes in travel size. Masking tests showed that although some sweat odor remained immediately after application, it was effectively masked after 15 minutes, earning it high ratings. The floral scent with a hint of fruitiness was refreshing and subtle, receiving praise from testers who prefer a mild fragrance.
Opinions on the feeling were mixed, with some saying the powder did not linger on the scalp, while others felt it remained even after brushing. The overall finish for testers with fine hair was average, as powder stuck to the hair and made it difficult to add volume. While this spray-type easily reaches the scalp, it's disappointing that the oily sensation persists but the refreshing feeling doesn’t.
Category | Cosmetic |
---|---|
Volumizing Effect | - |
Certified Organic | N/A |
Natural ingredients | Starch blend, seed oils, glycerin, fruit and flower extracts |
Absorption time | 0 mins. |
Type | Powder |
---|---|
Recommended hair type | All hair types |
Fragrance Intensity | 2 |
The Scalp Revival Charcoal + Biotin Dry Shampoo by Briogeo is a product designed for those with oily or frizzy hair, and boasts 99 percent naturally-derived ingredients. It's also non-aerosol. It effectively masked sweat odor both immediately after application and 15 minutes later, earning it high marks. The soap-like floral scent is subtle and refreshing, making it a good choice if you prefer a milder fragrance.
However, directly applying powder to the scalp caused residue, making it difficult to achieve a refreshed feeling and get lift at the roots. People with thin hair in particular may struggle with the powder sticking to the hair, diminishing volume. Attention is needed for the amount and application method of the powder. The bottle is designed to spray powder when pushed, but the powder tends to spray over a wide area, making it tricky to perfect the application technique.
Category | Cosmetic |
---|---|
Volumizing Effect | - |
Certified Organic | N/A |
Natural ingredients | Starch blend, minerals, charcoal, witch hazel |
Absorption time | 0 mins. |
Type | Powder |
---|---|
Recommended hair type | All hair types |
Fragrance Intensity | 2 |
The Hair Dance Dry Shampoo Volume Powder is a powder-type dry shampoo. It contains lavender essential oil, offering a calming natural scent with aromatherapy. In odor masking tests, while some sweat odor remained directly after application, the product was able to mask odors after 15 minutes, earning high marks. However, the lavender scent may not suit those who dislike herbal or essential oil fragrances.
In testing how the hair looked after using it, although there was no powder residue, the refreshing feeling on the scalp and lift at the roots weren’t very noticeable, earning it an average rating. Additionally, since it requires both hands to apply it, it somewhat lacks a refreshing feeling, which may be unsatisfying for those using dry shampoo in place of a shower. Some people may need to check the instructions on how to open the cap before use, as it can be confusing.
Category | Cosmetic |
---|---|
Volumizing Effect | - |
Certified Organic | Some organic ingredients |
Natural ingredients | Rice starch, oatmeal, minerals |
Absorption time | 0 mins. |
Type | Powder |
---|---|
Recommended hair type | All hair types |
Fragrance Intensity | 0 |
The Rosemary & Peppermint Dry Shampoo by Acrue is a vegan product. In odor masking tests, the product received high marks for suppressing sweat odor better after 15 minutes than immediately after application. However, it struggled to mask hair odor, even though it did a decent job on artificial skin, so it may be less effective for people with long hair. The product has a mild scent that is suitable for those who prefer a less intense fragrance.
In finish tests, there were mixed opinions from testers, with some saying that their hair felt flat and tangled while others experienced a refreshed scalp. However, there was minimal added volume, making it a poor choice for those wanting to preserve their hairstyle. In addition, it requires both hands for application, which is less convenient and means it lacks a refreshing feel from a spray. This drawback affected its overall rating.
Category | Cosmetic |
---|---|
Volumizing Effect | - |
Certified Organic | ✓ |
Natural ingredients | Corn starch, arrowroot powder, minerals |
Absorption time | 0 mins. |
We tested 12 best-selling dry shampoos from Amazon, Walmart, and Sephora to determine which one we recommend most. For this test, mybest defined the best dry shampoo as one that effectively masks odor, leaves the scalp feeling refreshed, and helps preserve your hairstyle.
To find the best product, we evaluated the following.
Products we tested
An essential factor to consider when using dry shampoo as a substitute for washing your hair is its ability to mask scalp odor. We applied a simulated sweat odor to artificial skin and hair to evaluate this. Then we tested how well each dry shampoo masked the smell with the help of odor assessment expert Mr. Eiichi Ishikawa.
How well odors were suppressed immediately after applying and after 15 minutes.
When using dry shampoo, you probably wonder if it leaves the scalp oil-free and if it gives your hair a lift. To evaluate this, three straight-haired and three wavy-haired participants used the products and assessed the finish based on the following points.
If you're using dry shampoo to refresh your scalp, you want a clean, fresh feeling after use. To evaluate this, three straight-haired and three wavy-haired participants used the products and assessed how refreshed their scalp felt based on the following points.
Since you may be using dry shampoo several times a week, choosing one with a pleasant smell is best. Three straight-haired and three wavy-haired participants used the products and assessed the scent based on the following points to evaluate this.
Applying dry shampoo can be stressful if the container is a hassle to use. It's better to have a product that's easy and stress-free to apply. To evaluate this, we compared the ease of opening the container and dispensing and applying the shampoo. The criteria for each are below.
Does it spray on, and if not, can it be applied with one hand?
Can it be easily dispensed with one finger?
Can the lid be opened easily without reading the instructions?
When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
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