Dry shampoos will save the day if you have greasy and oily hair. Unlike actual shampoo, you don’t have to wash dry shampoo with water. You just spritz it to your hair, scrunch it, and you’re good to go. It’s also a versatile product that you can use as a volumizer. But with dozens of brands saturating the market, finding the best dry shampoo for greasy hair can be tricky. So for this post, I’ll share my personal tips together with the dry shampoo options I’ve tried before.
What causes greasy hair?
Everyone has dealt with greasy hair at least once in their life. The sticky feeling is very uncomfortable, and the excess oil will weigh the hair down. Most of the time, hair greasiness is due to the overreaction of the sebaceous gland on our scalp. This leads to the overproduction of natural oils.
The truth is that this excessive oil is actually good for the hair. It serves as lubrication and nourishment to prevent hair dryness. However, it can become annoying, especially if you’re styling.
Aside from the natural reaction of our scalp, the following can be the reason why your hair is too greasy:
You touch your hair too much
I’m guilty of this habit all the time, especially if I’m sporting a tousled hairstyle. I have the urge to scrunch my hair all the time, which causes the oils in my hands to transfer to my hair.
Imagine, you’re touching things or even eating snacks with your hands. If you touch your hair without washing your hands, you’re brewing a recipe for hair greasiness.
You over-apply products
I know that serums and live-in conditioners are nourishing, but it will also attract dirt if you apply too much. The product combined with dust will result in a greasy feeling. It’s also possible that you’re going overboard with your conditioning, which causes the hair to be extra oily.
You don’t wash your sheets
If everything in your styling is fine, your sheets and pillowcases might be the culprit. The oils from your face will stick to the pillowcase and transfer to your hair as you sleep. The greasiness will be much worse if you use facial serums at night.
Make it a habit to change your sheets and pillowcases at least once a week.
Dry shampoo vs. actual shampoo
One of the most common questions I receive is regarding the difference between dry shampoo and an actual shampoo.
First of all, dry shampoo, just like how it’s called, is used on dry hair. You don’t have to use water to wash the product. You simply spritz it to your hair, massage it, and voila! Your hair will have extra freshness with less oiliness.
Another big difference is that an actual shampoo washes away dirt and locks in moisture. Meanwhile, dry shampoo absorbs and hides the greasiness to buy you time until the next wash. If you don’t wash your dry shampoo-laden hair for too long, it will feel sticky and flaky.
Remember that nothing beats washing with actual shampoo. But if you’re out and about, spraying a little dry shampoo won’t hurt as long as you wash it out soon.
Benefits of a dry shampoo
✔️Control oiliness on the go. If you don’t have the chance to wash your hair, say you’re late for work, you can use dry shampoo as a quick solution. It will absorb the moisture and make your hair smell fresh. If used right, other people will not suspect that you didn’t shower.
✔️Adding volume to your hair. One of the greatest uses of dry shampoo is adding volume to your hair. Spray it on the roots and massage it to lift the hair. It’s a useful trick for those with thin and fine hair struggling with weighed down tresses.
✔️Protect against heat damage. Depending on the formula, dry shampoo can help reduce heat damage on your hair. Still, it’s not a 100% substitute on actual heat protectants.
✔️Travel-friendly. If you’re traveling and busy, a bottle of dry shampoo is a must-have on your bag. It will freshen up your hair and make you look presentable even if you haven’t taken a shower in two days.
✔️Helps in treating lice. If your little one has lice, you can use an all-natural dry shampoo to combat the infestation. Try to look for diatomaceous earth on the ingredients list since it’s the one that kills bugs.
Dry shampoo buying guide
Dry shampoo products aren’t made equal. Each bottle is made of different ingredients that will affect its efficiency and effects in your hair. To buy the best dry shampoo for greasy hair, I recommend the following tips:
Decide between aerosol and powder
Dry shampoo products are available in either powder or aerosol forms. I personally use an aerosol dry shampoo since it’s easier to apply on the go. Some ladies like using powdered dry shampoo since it feels dry and can be massaged into the scalp with their hands. It also leaves a nice texture to the hair.
Both work well, depending on your preferences. I recommend trying both to see which one you’ll like most.
Consider an all-natural formula
Some dry shampoo products are notorious for drying the scalp after several applications. This is why I always look for a natural formula if possible. Natural extracts provide moisture to the hair while controlling the greasiness. Remember that leaving harsh chemicals on your scalp is a no-no because it can cause hair fall and even bald spots.
Buy based on your hair type
Whatever hair product you’re buying, always shop based on your hair type. If you have curly hair, look for a formula that suits this hair type. For those with dyed hair, a color-friendly formula is a must so it won’t strip the styling of your hair.
Check the smell
Lastly, check the scent of the dry shampoo. Since you’ll be leaving this product on your scalp for hours, you might as well use one with a nice smell. The last thing you want is your hair smelling like a chemical concoction. All-natural dry shampoos often have heavenly scents without the frills.
Best Dry Shampoo for Greasy Hair – Top 5 Picks!
OUR TOP PICK: Klorane Dry Shampoo with Oat Milk
If you’re looking for the best dry shampoo, you’ll never go wrong with the Klorane Dry Shampoo with Oat Milk. This is a plant-based formula that uses ultra-fine powders to absorb excess oils in your hair and scalp. It also neutralizes odors with its very gentle formula.
Moreover, it’s a hypoallergenic dry shampoo so those with sensitive scalps can use it too. Just make sure that you shake it well before spraying and that you focus the application on the roots.
Klorane is suitable for all hair types. Aside from controlling sebum, it’s also a great choice as a volumizer and on adding texture on your tresses. It’s made of corn and rice starch as well as organic oat milk, and natural silica. It’s also free of any parabens, salt, and preservatives.
- This oat milk-infused dry shampoo leaves hair looking refreshed, full of body and...
- Ultra-gentle, plant-based dry shampoo eliminates oil, dirt and odors. Hair is clean...
- Shake gently and spray onto roots in between shampoos for instant volume and restored...
Each application will leave your hair fresh and with less greasiness. It doesn’t have a chalky residue either, which is a big plus. It’s also color-friendly, which is why my friends prefer this over other dry shampoos.
The first time I tried this, my hair looked like it’s been washed. It also smells like a dream, so I keep buying this one as my on-the-go hair solution.
Pros
- Plant-based formula
- Works as a volumizer too
- Dye-friendly
Cons
- None so far
RUNNERS-UP
Batiste Dry Shampoo
If you want to save some bucks, you can also try the Batiste Dry Shampoo. What I love the most here is the tropical scent. It’s a combination of jasmine, coconut, and peach which gives an exotic whiff to my hair. I love spritzing this whenever I’m going out casually because it also makes me feel good. It smells like summer and vacation in a bottle.
Moreover, this aerosol dry shampoo has a vegan formula, which is a big plus. Its ingredients include Oryza sativa starch, which absorbs the excess oils on the scalp and hair. I noticed that it also contains denatured alcohol. It didn’t cause any problem to me, but those with sensitive scalps should take note of this.
- Enjoy an exotic fragrance with hints of coconut, jasmine, and peach
- Use between washes to instantly refresh your hair, no water required
- Waterless formula absorbs dirt and grease to revitalize dull and lifeless hair
- 13.46 Ounces (Pack of 3)
Take note that the Batiste dry shampoo also comes in colored types, which is like adding temporary dye to your hair. It’s available in blonde, plain and brown, and this non-tinted option.
This is my go-to dry shampoo during summer and when bumming by the beach. It comes in a pack of three bottles as well, which is a big money-saver if you’re using dry shampoos regularly.
Pros
- Nice exotic smell
- Available in tinted versions
- Comes in a pack of three
Cons
- May not be the best option for those with very sensitive scalps
MOROCCANOIL Dark Tones Dry Shampoo
If you’re a brunette or have black hair, you should consider the MOROCCANOIL Dark Tones Dry Shampoo. The common problem I encounter with other dry shampoos is it leaves a white mist in my hair if I don’t spread it properly. For someone with black hair like me, this option comes handy for busy days.
This is infused with argan oil that moisturizes the scalp and hair. It’s not chalky either, which is a big advantage than using powdered dry shampoos.
Aside from that, the MOROCCANOIL has UV-protecting properties, and it also deodorizes the hair naturally. It has a silky finish as well as my favorite Moroccan scent.
- Beauty product
- This item is not a Tester
- Packaging may vary
This dry shampoo uses ultra-fine starches to absorb the excess oil on the hair. It also retains the natural richness of black hair as if it’s been washed. Based on my experience, this dry shampoo washes easier than other formulas, which is added convenience.
The best part about the MOROCCANOIL Dark Tones is it doesn’t weigh the hair down. It doesn’t feel gross at the end of the day, either. Guys can use this too.
Pros
- Infused with argan oil
- Protects against UV damage
- Perfect for brunette and black hair
Cons
- Not for thin and fine hair
Frequently Asked Questions
Final words
If your hair is greasy and oily, the best dry shampoo for greasy hair will help restore its freshness in a snap. It also keeps your hair stylish until you can wash it at home. Just make sure that you get one with a healthy formula that suits your hair type.
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