Making and Using Dry Shampoo

Dry shampoo is a powder you can use when you do not have the time, resources or energy to go through your normal cleansing and styling routine for your hair. It is a great option when camping, when water or heat in your home is not up to par or you need to remove excess oil or odor from your hair quickly. It can be great after working a shift in a restaurant, going to a smoky environment or anywhere else that might leave your hair scented with undesired aspects of the environment. Dry shampoos can also be used to clean wigs and hairpieces.

Using a dry shampoo is not something that should replace your normal hair care routine, though it does leave hair clean and shiny. Since dry shampoo is a powder, keep in mind that it can be a less then tidy procedure. I recommend leaving over the tub or sink, though standing on a towel can also provide an easy clean up. I also recommend using a boar hair brush to help reduce the static electricity that can result from using dry shampoo.

The most basic dry shampoo is simply a tablespoon of powder that is massaged onto the scalp and then through out the hair. After letting the powder work, brush the hair vigorously with a natural bristle brush to remove the powder. The powder will pick up excess oil and odors that might have made themselves at home in your hair. The powder to use is up to you. Cornmeal is the most popular dry shampoo, probably because of the nice shine it leaves behind. Semolina flour, coarse flour often used in pasta making, is another popular option. Coarse or kosher salt is another option, though be sure that you do not use regular cooking salt since its fine texture can make it difficult to remove from your hair completely. The dry shampoo you are least likely to have at home, but my personal favorite, is orrisroot powder. While it is a fairly fine power, and can take some extra effort to completely brush out of your hair, it can also leave behind a light violet scent. Cornstarch, baking soda, rice flour and similar powders with absorbent properties can be used as well.

If you want to get fancy with your dry shampoo, you can mix up a batch of lightly scented powder ahead of time. Simply add a drop or two of your favorite herbal tincture to the dry shampoo of your choice, stir well, and let dry. Be certain to store in an airtight container to prevent any additional scents from harboring in the powder. You can also blend several of the cleansing powders together. Adding about half a cup of semolina or rice flour with one teaspoon of baking soda and one tablespoon of borax powder will make five ounces of an advanced dry shampoo for the days you might need a little extra power.