This miracle product is only miraculous if you use it right.
Dry shampoo is pretty wonderful, as it can add texture and volume to almost any hairstyle, as long as you're using it properly. There are some pretty common mistakes we all make that can lead to dandruff-like flakes or a generally chalky effect. Watch YouTuber Rachael Jade's video for a step-by-step approach of how to apply dry shampoo the right way:
For a more detailed breakdown of dry shampoo dos and don'ts, avoid the seven mistakes below and follow recommendations from Good Housekeeping's Beauty Director April Franzino instead.
But first, let's pick out a dry shampoo...
Mistake #1
Spraying too close to your scalp.
To evenly distribute your hair and avoid getting a chalky white look, Franzino recommends holding the dry shampoo spray two to three inches away from your scalp to prevent clumping. If you're using a powder, Franzino says to sprinkle it near your scalp and rub it in with your fingers to break up the formula.Mistake #2
Using too much product.
When your hair is greasy, a good dose of dry shampoo can make it look fresher, but apply too much and your hair can will dull and discolored. As with all products, it's easier to add more later than remove excess, so use a little dry shampoo, then wait a few minutes, and add more if you feel like your hair is still too greasy.Mistake #3
Applying it to the wrong part of your hair.
Don't spray dry shampoo all over your head — just stick to the top couple inches. Chances are that the bottom of your hair isn't greasy, so applying an oil absorber all over can just make your hair stiff and lackluster.Mistake #4
Not massaging it in.
If you don't, the dry shampoo just sits on top of your hair and isn't able to do its job. So use your fingertips to massage it into your roots and scalp.Mistake #5
Using the wrong color for your hair.
If you have dark brown hair and use a light-tinted dry shampoo, you could wind up looking like you dusted chalk all over your roots. If your hair is blonde and you pick a dark shade, you'll end up with discolored hair.But there's good news: More brands than ever are making tinted dry shampoos, including blonde, brunette, and black hair.
Mistake #6
Immediately rubbing it in after spritzing it on.
Don't just spray and go — give the product a chance to work into your hair and really absorb the oil at your roots by letting it sit for a couple minutes before you massage it in and brush or comb it through.Franzino also has a special tip for when you should apply. "Dry shampoo can be applied any time your hair needs a boost, but we like using it before bed," she says. "Hair will absorb it as you sleep and look refreshed in the morning."
Mistake #7
Relying on it every day.
As somebody who shampoos once a week at most, I always use dry shampoo between washes and it works great at keeping my oiliness at bay. But doing this too often can actually be detrimental because the built-up residue can eventually clog your follicles. So try to do it only once between hair washes so your scalp has a chance to breathe.Sam Escobar Contributor Sam's enthusiasm for makeup is only rivaled by their love of all things relating to cats.
