The Dry Shampoo Dilemma: Modern Must-Have or Overhyped Habit?

I’m trying to pinpoint the day when I first started using dry shampoo. It had become a discussion topic in the newsroom as more people on the morning team saw the benefits of waking and spraying. After all, who has time to wash and style hair at 4am?

Dry shampoo offered a solution for non-oily hair that looked and smelled great even days after a last full wash. Fast-forward seven or eight years and dry shampoo is everywhere, but beneath the quick convenience lies a less glamorous reality.

The Temporary Fix

Dry shampoo works by absorbing excess oils, and adding texture to hair, but overuse can lead to potential scalp issues. Formula can build-up around the hair follicles causing clogged pores, and in some cases, hair loss.

Melissa Caci, owner and senior stylist at The Next Gen Salon, an Aveda lifestyle salon in Winnipeg, says she is seeing more scalp issues related to dry shampoos, especially products that contain an alcohol component, which can strip moisture from both hair and scalp.

“A lot of women are now going a week without shampooing their hair, and instead using dry shampoo daily. I’m noticing more problems,” Caci said.

“Dry shampoo can actually dry your hair out from the mid-shaft to end, it’s also hurting the root because of the excess residue.”

She says overuse of dry shampoo disrupts the hairs natural oils balance, leading to buildup and ultimately it can prevent hair follicles from “breathing”.

“It can lead to hair loss or thinning hair. You can use dry shampoo, if say, you are running out the door and don’t have time, but don’t use it excessively. I believe it’s more beneficial to wash your hair every two or three days.”

The Right Balance

It seems moderation is key. Caci says dry shampoo should be seen as a rare treat, rather than a daily staple. If you find yourself reaching for dry shampoo too often, it might be time to look at alternative solutions, like a new hairstyling technique that can help extend your style without the need for constant spraying, or a different haircut that takes less time to style after washing.

Caci says you should read product labels and talk to your stylist. While dry shampoo is a convenient option, it’s essential to be aware of its drawbacks. Spray in moderation. Your scalp will thank you.