Can you even remember a time before dry shampoo? Aside from a small group of ladies who evangelized about the power of baby powder, there really wasn't much in the oil-soaking category back then. Now, aerosol cans and powder shakers litter our bathrooms, gym bags, heck, even work desks. Hairstylists can't shut up about the texturizing, volumizing, make-everything-look-better-izing effect of the stuff. And now, we use it more than the regular version in our showers. (A lot more.)
But, as much as we love it, dry shampoo was due for an upgrade. From messy powders to sticky residues, it was time for a change. These six companies answered the call.
Click ahead to read about the newest oil-sopping innovations you need to try, ASAP. Trust us, you won't believe you ever lived in a world without dry-shampoo paste.
This skews a bit more texturizer than dry shampoo, but we use it for both. It soaks up oil, adds volume and lift, and creates that piece-y, cool-girl texture so many of us want. This one is translucent, so you never have to worry about lingering white residue.
Bumble and bumble Thickening Dryspun Finish, $31, available at Sephora.
This luxe dry shampoo is worth picking up for its cleansing qualities alone, but you'll want to have it on your vanity for months to come due to the much-adored Nirvana White fragrance addition. The multitasking product absorbs oil, adds body and texture, and leaves you with divinely scented hair.
Elizabeth and James Nirvana White Dry Shampoo, $28, available at Sephora.
Many dry shampoos double as texturizing sprays. But sometimes, you just need a good oil soaker — and this one delivers. Created by Living Proof's team of top-notch scientists, this aerosol spray has powders that absorb oil and sweat — and a special molecule that repels those same powders from your hair when you shake it out. (And you do need to shake it out — the spray goes on stark white.) The result is hair that looks clean and full, with zero residue. We're now on day four of a blowout, and our dark-brown roots look as good as they did on day one.
Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Dry Shampoo, $22, available at Sephora.
That's right — this is a dry shampoo paste. (We know. What?!) Here's why you'll love it: Unlike sprays and powders, which are harder to control, you can direct this creamy, volcanic-ash product to just the areas that need it. The result? Hair that looks clean and proportionally bedhead-y — not a ghastly shade of matte gray. Pro tip: Work it through your ends for cool, piece-y texture as well.
R+Co, $28.00, available at R+Co
We know you have good intentions, but dry shampoo companies: Enough with the overpowering fragrances, already. Not only are they potentially irritating to some, but the telltale scents tend to draw more attention to the fact that we haven't washed our hair in days. This version of the brand’s cult-favorite dry shampoo is completely unscented — for real.
Not Your Mother's, $4.58, available at Walmart
Ready for some magic? This dry shampoo comes out of the can as a super-fine spray, but transforms into a powder by the time it hits your strands. You can then shake it out, without the usual stickiness most aerosols leave behind. The cornstarch mixture comes in light and dark versions — and we definitely recommend the latter to brunettes.
Lee Stafford, $8.99, available at Ulta Beauty
Natural-product lovers, this one's for you. Rahua's oil-absorber is non-aerosol, gluten-free, organic, and even comes in recyclable packaging. (It also really wants you to know it's vegan.) Carefully squeeze the pump to disperse the powder through your roots — and keep in mind that it's totally loose, so don't try this while wearing a black shirt. The mix of cassava, mineral clay, and anise leaves strands feeling fresh, clean, and smelling (subtly) lovely.
Rahua, $32.00, available at Rahua
Like this post? There's more. Get tons of beauty tips, tutorials, and news on the Refinery29 Beauty Facebook page. Like us on Facebook — we'll see you there!
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
22 Natural Hair Products For Dry, Lifeless Hair