Homemade Dry Shampoo Recipe

Last Updated on February 24, 2024 by Ellen Christian

You won’t believe how easy it is to make this homemade dry shampoo for any hair color. There are days that I don’t really need to wash my hair. But, I do want to freshen it up a bit and add fullness and texture. That’s where this DIY dry shampoo comes in handy.

Homemade Dry Shampoo

Dry shampoo is often used to absorb excess oil and restore fullness to the hair on days when you don’t have time for a full shampoo. There are lots of dry shampoos that you can find at your local beauty store.

But, they tend to be really expensive and filled with questionable ingredients. And, why waste the money when you can make your own homemade dry shampoo for less than a dollar.

How can I make dry shampoo at home?

You can make your own homemade dry shampoo very easily from a few simple kitchen ingredients. The key is to use the right ingredients for your color hair. Otherwise, the shampoo won’t blend well into your hair and you’ll end up being able to see the residue. 

If you prefer to buy dry shampoo, here are a few quality brands to look at.

Does homemade dry shampoo work?

Yes, it definitely does work. This DIY dry shampoo recipe will help absorb excess oils in your hair. That will leave your hair looking more full and refreshed. You won’t be able to use it every day because it will build up. But, it will give you an extra day or two before you need to shampoo your hair.

How many days in a row can I use dry shampoo?

I wouldn’t use it for more than two days. The powder will build up and cake the roots of your hair which isn’t healthy. It isn’t a permanent replacement for washing your hair. It’s a solution you can use when you are short on time. 

Can I use flour for dry shampoo?

I wouldn’t personally. It will leave a white sheen behind on your hair. And, it will cake up at the roots more quickly. Try this homemade dry shampoo recipe instead.

What you will need to make homemade dry shampoo

¼ cup arrowroot powder 
¼ bentonite clay
1 teaspoon turmeric powder (for dark blonde & light brown)
10-15 drops lavender essential oil
10-15 drops rosemary essential oil
10-15 drops chamomile essential oil
1 small jar or Mason jar with a shaker lid

For redheads: Substitute 1 teaspoon beet powder or paprika for the turmeric powder

For brunettes: Substitute 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder or espresso powder for the turmeric powder

Gray hair dry shampoo: Use arrowroot and bentonite clay only. No turmeric.

For very light blonde: Use just the arrowroot. No turmeric.

For strawberry blonde: Use arrowroot and cinnamon instead of turmeric.

Black hair version: Use activated charcoal instead of turmeric.

How do you make homemade dry shampoo?

Scroll down for the printable version of this recipe.

• In a medium-size mixing bowl, whisk together to arrowroot powder and bentonite clay.
• Whisk in the essential oils.
• Whisk in the turmeric powder (or whichever powder for your hair color.)
• Add into the bottle and keep sealed with a small piece of cling wrap until ready for use.

How do you use this?

When you buy dry shampoo at the store, it generally comes in an aerosol container so you can spray it on your hair. You cannot easily do that at home with a powder. So, you will need to use this with a makeup brush. I find that a kabuki brush works best for this but any type of blush brush or powder brush will work.

To use this homemade dry shampoo, separate your hair into sections. Dab the mixture into your hair. Then, rub it in with a makeup brush and allow it to absorb any oils for about 30 seconds before brushing hair.

If you prefer, you can use a Mason jar or a glass container with a sprinkle top lid. Then, work it into your scalp with your fingers. I just find that a makeup brush is easier.

Changing up the color

You will need to experiment to see which color works best for your hair. For blonde or light brown hair, the turmeric should be the best fit. But, you can experiment with the different shades to see which one you prefer. And, you can make a mixture of several if your hair shade falls somewhere in between.

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