Are Dry Shampoos Bad For My Hair? Here’s The Truth

This question comes up often and people want to know if the dry shampoo they’re using is bad for their hair?

Let’s take a look into the truths and myths on common questions we get about dry shampoos…

I’ve heard dry shampoo can cause hair loss!

MYTH:  According to hair loss expert Dr. David Kingsley, “Dry shampoo will not cause hair loss from the scalp, though it can sometimes lead to breakage due to tangling.  By not shampooing, the normal shedding amount accumulates and so when the hair is washed properly, there appears to be a greater loss.”

Think of the hair that gets left in the shower on a daily basis.

If you’re extending the time between your washes the buildup of hair on the scalp will occur.  When you wash your hair again with a wet shampoo you may experience what is perceived to be greater fallout but is typically just the excess build up.

Over-using dry shampoo can cause dandruff

TRUE:  Dry shampoo is NOT meant to completely replace your wet-shampoo product.   Shampooing your hair the old-fashioned way is still recommended 2-3 times per week.

Regular shampoo rinses and cleans the scalp and without it, after multiple days of dry shampoo use build up on the scalp can occur.

This build up can lead to dandruff, scalp-pimples and in the worst occasions, cysts due to blocked pours.

Remember, wash your hair with water at least a few times a week :)

Isn’t spraying ingredients like butane, isobutane and propane into my hair bad for it?

MYTH:  These colorless and odorless gasses are used as propellants and vaporize very quickly when used or when they come into contact with the skin.  In 2002, the Cosmetics Ingredients Review Board found that when these items are used in a shampoo it is safe.

Butane was additionally researched in 2006 and found to be safe and usually vaporizes before it comes into contact with the skin.  Don’t forget to keep the bottle at least 6 inches away from your scalp to make sure the product dissipates even before reaching your scalp.

I no longer need to go the route of a wet shampoo to clean my hair

MYTH:  Dry shampooing is meant as a temporary solution and a quick fix.  The product is not designed to be used long-term on a regular basis instead of getting your hair wet in the shower.

Dry shampoo products are great for removing excess oil on the hair but cannot get your hair as clean as wet shampooing.

Washing your hair in the shower does a more thorough job of removing deep down impurities that collect on the hair during your daily routines.  The water rinses and cleanses the scalp and the hair to get it squeaky clean, fresh, and shining.

The only types of dry shampoo on the market are those that leave a chalky residue

MYTH:  Back in the 1970s when dry shampoos were created, the only type available to consumers was the one that used a powdery substance that left a white chalky residue on the hair.  Many years ago dry shampoos used talc as the basic ingredient to absorb excess oil, which often left you looking like you had dandruff.

Today’s products more commonly contain starch to remove the impurities in your hair, which is not as noticeable as long as you do a thorough brushing after applying it.  New types of dry shampoo have entered the market and consumers can now buy products that are translucent and go on clear with no noticeable residue.

Dry shampoo will make my hair smell bad

MYTH:  Just the opposite!  Dry shampoos come in a variety of scents that include infusions of delightful floral and citrus notes.  Some brands use herbal extracts and organic essences that produce a deeper, rich scent that is like a breath of fresh air and getting back to nature.

Just as you would do when buying deodorant or perfume, you need to read the container to see what scent you are getting.  Some examples of the variety of different scents you can get with dry shampoo brands include citrus fresh, tropical breeze, clean and classic, floral, and coconut.

I can apply dry shampoo to my wet hair

TRUE:  Although dry shampoo was designed not to be used on wet hair, the product can be applied to damp hair to add volume and thickness.  According to celebrity stylist Michael Dueñas, “Dry shampoo does not have any hold factor to it, just body-building properties,” he explains.  “So it’s basically for when you want your hair to look naturally, effortlessly full.”

The stylist recommends that your hair be just slightly damp for the best results to add fullness, texture, and height.

I shouldn’t use dry shampoo if my hair is color-treated

MYTH:  You can safely use dry shampoo on color-treated hair.  Since the product is designed to simply absorb excess oil and not cleanse the hair, dry shampoo will not fade your color.  Depending on the color of your hair, if you are a brunette for example, you may want to look for tinted dry shampoo products.

Some dry shampoos leave a slight chalky residue when applied to their hair, which is removed with a thorough brushing.  There are products available on the market that provide a translucent clear finish without that powdery look that can be hard to get out.

Dry shampoo will make my hair go limp and lifeless

MYTH:  Quite the contrary is true when using dry shampoo as the product absorbs excess oil and impurities.  Dirty hair can be limp and lifeless but will have added volume and thickness when dry shampoo is applied.  The ingredients that absorb impurities in your dirty hair plump it up and make it fluffy.

Dry shampoo also adds body and bounce to hair, which is an added perk if have fine thin strands.  The product also adds texture so you can style your hair and create curls and waves to get that freshly styled look from a beauty salon.

Dry shampoo is a versatile product that can be used when you are in a bind and need to quickly refresh and revitalize your hair.  You can neatly store it in your handbag or tote and bring it along on trips.

For ideas on which particular brands to use, take a look at our list of the best dry shampoos!