Make Your Own Nontoxic Dry Shampoo!

DIY dry shampoo is a simple way to refresh roots between washes using a small number of ingredients. This powder-based recipe can be adjusted for light or dark hair, which helps reduce the visible cast that some dry shampoos leave behind. It is best used sparingly on dry hair and blended in gradually.

Dry shampoo can be useful when you want to reduce how often you wash your hair, including when frequent washing affects a color-treated style. It does not clean the scalp in the same way as shampoo and water, so use it as an occasional refresh rather than a replacement for regular washing.

Ingredients and supplies

• Organic arrowroot powder
• Bentonite clay
• Organic cocoa powder
• Lavender, peppermint, and rosemary essential oils
• A small bowl, a blender or spoon, and a clean container with a lid

DIY dry shampoo recipe for different hair colors

Choose the mixture closest to your hair color. Cocoa powder helps deepen the blend, but individual hair tones vary, so start with the listed amount and adjust cautiously if needed.

For light-colored hair

1. Combine 5 teaspoons of arrowroot powder and 2 teaspoons of bentonite clay in a small bowl.
2. Add a pinch of cocoa powder and mix. Keep the amount small to avoid making the powder too dark.

For darker hair

1. Combine 3 teaspoons of arrowroot powder, 3 teaspoons of cocoa powder, and 2 teaspoons of bentonite clay.
2. If needed, add a little more cocoa powder at a time to better suit your hair tone.

Step 2: Add the essential oils

Add 3 drops of lavender essential oil, 8 drops of peppermint essential oil, and 2 drops of rosemary essential oil to the powder. Blend the mixture in a blender, or stir thoroughly with a spoon. Essential oils are optional; they provide fragrance but should not be relied on to promote hair growth or treat scalp concerns.

Step 3: Store the mixture

Transfer the finished powder to a small, clean, dry container with a secure lid. Keep it away from moisture, and use a dry brush or spoon to take out the amount you need.

How to apply homemade dry shampoo

Use a fluffy makeup brush to pick up a small amount, then lightly tap or sweep the powder onto the roots of dry hair. Work in sections and apply a little at a time. Brush through or use your fingers to blend the powder until it is less visible. Add another light layer only where needed; applying too much at once can leave residue, especially on darker hair.

Practical use and safety tips

• Test the color on a small, discreet section of hair before applying it across your roots.
• Avoid breathing in the loose powder while mixing or applying it, and keep it away from your eyes.
• Essential oils can irritate skin. If you have a sensitive scalp, leave them out; otherwise, test a small amount first and stop using the mixture if irritation occurs.
• Arrowroot powder and bentonite clay can help absorb excess oil, but they do not remove dirt or replace washing.

This DIY dry shampoo offers a customizable option for refreshing roots between washes. Choose the light or dark hair formula, apply it in small amounts, and wash your hair as needed to keep your scalp clean.