The Science of Dry Shampoo How Does it Work?

Dry shampoo has gained popularity as a convenient alternative to traditional shampoo because it doesn’t need to be rinsed out. It’s typically an aerosol spray or powder and works by absorbing excess oil and sebum from the scalp — leaving your hair looking cleaner, fresher, and fuller in seconds.

Your head may be racing with questions like, Does dry shampoo get rid of oily hair? Or, Does dry shampoo actually clean hair? So, we’ve got you covered. From what dry shampoo is for to how it works and tips for achieving the best results, here’s everything you need to know.

Image of a woman with short, dark hair applying Perfect hair Day™Dry Shampoo.

The origins of dry shampoo

Dry shampoo’s history dates back many centuries when various ancient cultures developed methods to keep their hair fresh between washes. There is evidence people in ancient Asia used substances like clay to soak up excess oil from their hair. Fast forward to the Elizabethan era, when bathing practices were not as frequent as today, and people used different powdered mixtures to absorb oils to keep their hair looking fresh and clean.

What we now consider dry shampoo emerged in the 1940s. Aerosol cans containing absorbent powders offered a convenient way to refresh hair without water. Living Proof did not invent dry shampoo, but we have taken the time and done the research to create a product unlike any other on the market. While most dry shampoos simply absorb excess oils and grease, our Perfect hair Day™Dry Shampoo doesn’t just create the appearance of a fresh head of hair — it actually cleans it.

So, How Does Dry Shampoo Work?

Our scalp is covered in hair follicles. In addition to producing hair, these follicles also create a natural oil called sebum. Sebum keeps your hair healthy and soft and helps protect your skin. However, as sebum mixes with sweat, pollutants, or styling products throughout the day, it can cause build-up and lead to greasy-looking hair. Regular shampoos effectively remove this dirt and excess oil, but it’s not always convenient or necessarily healthy to overwash your hair — which is why dry shampoo comes in handy.

Dry shampoo contains starch-based ingredients that absorb excess oil and grease build-up to improve your hair’s appearance. It’s useful for people with oily scalps, those who want to extend the time between washes, or busy individuals who don’t have time for a traditional shampoo and rinse. And dry shampoo can add texture and volume to your hair, making it a multi-functional styling aid.

Image of a woman with healthy hair flowing just past her shoulders.

What Does Dry Shampoo Do?

Dry shampoo is used for many different things, with the main draw being a convenient way to remove excess oils and make your hair appear cleaner. While results can vary based on hair type, here are a few benefits of adding dry shampoo to your haircare routine.

Helps you go longer between washes

Excessive washing can strip hair of natural oils and make it more susceptible to damage. While there are many factors that can help you determine how often you should wash your hair, such as texture, styling routine, and exercise frequency, it’s generally best to avoid washing daily. By acting as a “quick fix” shampoo, dry shampoo offers a convenient way to improve your hair’s health, extend your style, and keep it looking clean between washes.

Makes your hair smell great

It’s one thing to hide that you haven’t washed your hair, but does dry shampoo get rid of smells? We’re glad you asked. We know unwashed hair can give off an odor that’s, well, less than desirable, and luckily, traditional shampoo is not your only option. Living Proof’s Perfect hair Day™Dry Shampoo has an odor-neutralizing formula that delivers a time-released fragrance for great-smelling hair whenever you’re on the go.

Adds volume and texture

Excess oil and grease can weigh down your hair. If you have fine hair or oily roots, adding dry shampoo to your morning routine can help create a little extra volume, give your hair a more texturized look, and make it easier to style.

Preserves color-treated hair

If you’re curious what dry shampoo does to hair treated with color, frankly, it works wonders. It doesn’t fade or affect color-treated hair and can actually help preserve it. Traditional shampoo and water can strip away color pigments, so replacing a regular wash with dry shampoo can help you avoid excessive washing and prolong the vibrancy and longevity of your color.

Works well with other products

Dry shampoo doesn’t break down any other hair styling products. Its primary job is to absorb and remove oil, sweat, and odor from your hair. Therefore, it plays well with other products and doesn’t limit their effect or leave buildup on your hair.

Whether used on its own or as part of your full haircare routine, dry shampoo is versatile and adaptable to all situations and hair types. However, despite the name, most dry shampoos don’t actually clean your hair. If you’re looking for dry shampoo that cleans hair, our Perfect hair Day™Dry Shampoo and Advanced Clean Dry Shampoo contain advanced HairTech that effectively removes sweat, oil, and odor in addition to the benefits above.

Image of a woman with mid-length blonde hair applying dry shampoo.

Are there any drawbacks to using dry shampoo?

There are many advantages to using dry shampoo, but it’s important to be aware of potential downsides. Firstly, dry shampoos can’t replace regular shampoos. While Living Proof’s Perfect hair Day™Dry Shampoo does actually clean your hair, it is designed to help you extend the time between washes and keep your hair cleaner for longer to prevent damage from overwashing.

Additionally, overusing certain dry shampoos may disrupt your hair’s natural oil production and lead to excess grease or dryness. Excessive use of certain products can also weaken the hair, lead to breakage, and potentially impact hair growth. If you have a sensitive scalp, some dry shampoos can cause irritation and discomfort too. While dry shampoo is a convenient, versatile tool for your haircare arsenal, not all are equal. Be sure to find a product with nourishing ingredients and balance its usage with traditional washing to maintain healthy hair and scalp.

Does dry shampoo clean hair?

While most dry shampoos absorb excess oil and create the appearance of fresher hair, they don’t actually clean it. If you’re looking for a dry shampoo that cleans hair, Living Proof’s Perfect hair Day™Dry Shampoo advanced powder removal system eliminates oil, sweat, and odor — unlike competitors, which typically mask the look. Whether you just finished a workout, are traveling, or aren’t able to hop in the shower, dry shampoo is a great way to achieve that just-washed feel but is not intended for exclusive full-time use.

Image demonstrating how Living Proof's Advanced Clean Dry Shampoo is more effective than a prestige rinse-out shampoo.

The science behind Perfect hair Day™ dry shampoo

What makes our dry shampoo different from every other product on the market? We performed extensive research and created technology that benefits hair in ways other dry shampoos simply can’t. In addition to absorbing oils, odors, and sweat in dirty hair, our dry shampoos are formulated with an advanced powder removal system that cleans hair without water.

Original vs. Advanced Clean Dry Shampoo

Wondering if you should try our original or advanced clean dry shampoo? We’ve broken down the differences to help you find the right product for your hair.

Original

Our original Perfect hair Day™Dry Shampoo is best used right before wash day or when you have excess sweat and oil, such as after a workout. It cleans your roots, detoxes your scalp, and is designed to add natural body to your hair and create a lightly textured feel. Plus, its signature fresh, time-released scent will leave your hair feeling and smelling good.

Advanced Clean

The Perfect hair Day™Advanced Clean Dry Shampoo is better suited to help preserve your current style and extend the time between washes. In addition to cleaning your roots and scalp, our advanced formula also conditions your ends — leaving you with a soft, freshly washed look and feel as well as added shine. The new light scent will leave your hair feeling rejuvenated and refreshed too.

Through science and innovation, we’ve created solutions to some of the toughest challenges with hair. In addition to industry-standard powders, our formula includes a powder removal system that easily removes excess powders that have previously absorbed the oil, sweat, and odor in your hair. And, thanks to our odor-neutralizing and time-released fragrance elements, our formula leaves your hair smelling, looking, and feeling clean.

Our dry shampoos work for all types and lengths of hair, including color or chemically-treated hair. So, if you’re going days without a wash, whichever product you decide will help you look and feel your best.

Breakthrough Ingredients

4 tips for achieving the best results

For dry shampoo to be effective, the application process is key. Here are a few simple tips to help you get the best results.

Use it in moderation – While the benefits of dry shampoo are far and plenty, be careful not to overuse it. Excessive dry shampoo can cause a dry or itchy scalp. Whether you use traditional dry shampoo or an advanced solution, like Living Proof’s, that cleans hair, dry shampoo should complement a regular washing routine, not replace it.
Apply directly to roots – Shake the can before using dry shampoo and spray it 6 inches away from your scalp. Most hair oils build up in the roots, which is why you should focus on this area. However, you can apply it to other places that appear oily as well. Once you see white powder on your hair, let the product sit for about 30 seconds before continuing your haircare routine.
Distribute dry shampoo evenly – If you notice you’ve accidentally applied too much dry shampoo to an area of your hair, gently brush patches with excessive powder to create a more even distribution. You can also remove extra powder by shaking it out of your hair with your fingers.
Combine with hydrating products – Some dry shampoos can cause dryness if used in excess. Combat this by bolstering your hair care routine with products that help create a healthy moisture balance. Not sure where to start? Our Healthy Hair Perfector and Vanishing Oil are a great way to moisturize those ends and leave your hair looking smooth and shiny.

Get the most out of your dry shampoo

Just a few sprays of dry shampoo can save you time and keep your hair looking clean throughout the day. Applying it in the morning? Just let it sink in before moving on to additional styling. Post-workout? Let the sweat dry from your hair before spraying it for a quick clean. Before bed? Once the dry shampoo is thoroughly incorporated, toss your hair into a loose braid or bun before heading to sleep. As long as your hair isn’t damp or wet, dry shampoo can be used whenever you need a quick refresh.

All hair is different, so don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you. Used in rotation with your regular shampoo and conditioner, dry shampoo is a convenient way to revitalize your hair between washes or on the go. And remember, different dry shampoo products offer different benefits. If you’re looking for a dry shampoo that actually cleans hair, Perfect hair Day™Dry Shampoo is the perfect addition to your current routine.

Looking to revamp your hair care routine? Discover the best products for you and your hair by taking our Haircare Quiz.