DIY Dry Shampoo: How to Make a Natural Alternative at Home

If you’ve been here for a while, you know how much I adore DIY beauty. I have shared my favorite DIYs over the years, time and time again. DIYing your beauty treatments allows you to nourish your hair, refresh your scalp, and enjoy a bit of self-care, all while controlling exactly what you put on your body. Lately, I decided to branch out and try my hand at DIY dry shampoo, and I have to say, it has completely changed my washing and hair care routine.

I’ve always struggled with store-bought dry shampoos. Some leave my hair feeling too dry and straw-like, others create a dull or ashy residue that’s impossible to blend, and a few don’t do enough to absorb oil or refresh my roots. The frustration of choosing between these extremes led me to wonder: why not make my own?

After experimenting with natural powders, a few essential oils, and pantry staples, I discovered the magic of homemade dry shampoo. Suddenly, I could create a formula that worked specifically for my hair type, scalp needs, and even my mood, yes, the scent matters too!

Why Use DIY Dry Shampoo?

Like in most DIYs, making your own DIY dry shampoo offers a level of customization that store-bought versions can never match. The benefits of DIY dry shampoo go beyond just cosmetic fixes. You get to create your own formula and choose whether to focus on absorbing oil, adding volume, soothing your scalp, or giving your hair a soft, natural shine.

These are some of the benefits of using DIY dry shampoo that I love:

Absorbs Excess Oil and Refreshes Roots

Between natural oils produced by your scalp, styling products, and environmental pollutants like dust and smoke, hair can quickly accumulate buildup that leaves it looking flat, greasy, or weighed down. A homemade dry shampoo gently lifts and refreshes your roots without the need for daily washing, which is particularly helpful if your scalp tends to get oily quickly or if you want to extend the life of a blowout or styled waves.

Adds Volume and Texture

One of my favorite things about DIY dry shampoo is that it can instantly add volume and texture to your hair. Even fine hair can look and feel fuller when a light dusting of powder is massaged into the roots. It’s almost like giving your hair a second life between washes. Plus, because it allows you to go longer between shampoos, your natural oils have a chance to nourish your strands, improving the overall health and manageability of your hair.

Over time, using a homemade dry shampoo can even make your haircare routine more effective, because your treatments, oils, and masks can penetrate better when your scalp isn’t overloaded with buildup or grease.

Protects Hair from Over-washing

Frequent washing and shampooing can dry out your hair, stripping it of its natural oils. Using a dry shampoo once a week instead of washing your hair every other day helps create a more balanced hair care routine.

Quick Fix for Busy Mornings

Using DIY dry shampoo will keep your hair looking fresh, making it a perfect quick fix for busy mornings, unexpected events, or travel days when you don’t have enough time to wash your hair.

Simple Ingredients for DIY Dry Shampoo

These are some of my favorite ingredients to use in DIY dry shampoo recipes. Each one brings its own unique benefits, and they help me tailor each recipe to my hair type, color, and needs. Below, we share natural ingredients suitable for all hair types, including fine, curly, oily, and dry.

Natural Powders (Oil Absorbers)

This is the base of your DIY dry shampoo. Natural powders help soak up oil, refresh your roots, and leave your hair feeling clean without the need for washing. Each option has its own unique texture, absorption level, and finish, allowing you to customize your recipe to suit your specific scalp and hair type.

Cornstarch

A classic ingredient in many homemade dry shampoo recipes, cornstarch is gentle, lightweight, and ideal for light or fine hair. It effectively absorbs oil without weighing strands down or leaving unnecessary residue. It’s also hypoallergenic, making it a safe choice for sensitive scalps. Use cornstarch alone or as a base combined with baking soda, arrowroot, or rice flour for a smoother blend.

Baking Soda

A natural deodorizer that absorbs excess oil and neutralizes odor. It helps your hair feel and smell fresh. We recommend you use it sparingly if you have a sensitive scalp.

Arrowroot Powder

When it comes to sensitive scalps, if you are prone to allergies or sensitivities, arrowroot powder is your best friend. It’s ultra-soft and soothing, and it also helps control mild irritation or redness, which can be common with commercial dry shampoos. We recommend arrowroot for blonde and medium hair shades.

Unsweetened Cocoa Powder

This is the one ingredient I can’t miss in my DIY dry shampoo. For brunettes and those with darker hair tones, like me, cocoa powder is a game-changer. It blends seamlessly into your roots, avoiding that unwanted white cast common with lighter powders. 

Plus, it gives your hair a subtle, warm tint and a natural scent. You should mix cocoa powder with cornstarch or arrowroot to create a balanced, tinted DIY dry shampoo for dark hair.

Rice Flour

Rice flour is slightly grittier than cornstarch, making it perfect for adding natural lift and volume to limp roots. It absorbs oil efficiently, leaving a lightweight texture behind. It’s rich in antioxidants and amino acids and promotes strengtheningof the hair shaft over time. It’s a great ingredient to add to any natural dry shampoo recipe.

Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal is a powerful detoxifier, perfect for greasy hair, oily scalps or those with styling buildup. It absorbs oil, dirt, and impurities while keeping your scalp feeling clean and refreshed. Because it’s dark in color, it’s best suited for DIY dry shampoo intended for brown or black hair. A little goes a long way; start with a small amount and mix well to prevent over-darkening.

Optional Add-Ins

These ingredients are optional to use. When added to your recipe, they will elevate your homemade dry shampoo. Think of them as boosters that can turn a simple powder into a holistic hair refresher. Yet, you don’t necessarily need them, and you can have a simple yet effective recipe if you choose to skip them.

Kaolin Clay or Bentonite Clay

Both kaolin and bentonite clay are incredible for detoxifying the scalp. They draw out impurities and add texture to fine hair.

Kaolin is gentler and better for dry or sensitive scalps.

Bentonite provides a deeper cleanse and is great for oily or product-heavy hair.

Essential Oils

Adding essential oils to your DIY dry shampoo can add therapeutic benefits:

Lavender oil soothes irritation and promotes relaxation.

Peppermint oil provides a cooling sensation, stimulating the scalp and reducing oiliness.

Rosemary oil supports healthy hair growth and circulation.

Add just a few drops to your powder blend or spray base for a refreshing feeling.

Note: You can also place the dried versions of these oils (dried lavender, dried rosemary, and dried peppermint tea leaves) in a muslin bag and let them rest in your main powder mixture overnight.

Liquid Ingredients for Spray Versions

Although this is not technically a dry shampoo, we’re adding it to this category because you get a similar effect from the liquid version. If you prefer a mist-style homemade dry shampoo, these lightweight liquids form the base of your spray. They refresh hair, balance oil, and allow for even distribution without leaving buildup.

These natural liquids serve as excellent bases for DIY dry shampoo substitutes.

Witch hazel: A gentle astringent that absorbs oil and refreshes the scalp, ideal for oily hair.

Apple cider vinegar or white vinegar: Natural clarifiers that balance scalp pH, dissolve buildup, and refresh roots, perfect for oily hair.

Aloe vera: Hydrates and soothes, making it great for dry or irritated scalps.

Combine your chosen base liquid with essential oils to create a personalized, aromatic natural dry shampoo alternative that’s easy to apply and perfect for quick touch-ups. You can apply it to your entire damp hair or follow my grandma’s trick: part your hair and apply it only to the front half instead of the back.

Best DIY Dry Shampoo Ingredients by Hair Type

To make your recipe truly effective, tailor your ingredients to your hair type. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose:

For Oily Hair

We recommend a base made of arrowroot powder, baking soda, and/or cornstarch. As add-ins, you can use bentonite clay, activated charcoal, and dried mint leaves in a bag. For your essential oils, try tea tree oil for its cooling properties.

For Dry Hair

For those with dry hair, use cornstarch or kaolin clay as your base. You can add aloe vera powder or a few drops of jojoba oil, lavender, or rosemary essential oil to hydrate.

For Fine Hair

If you have fine hair, use arrowroot powder or ground oats. Add in kaolin clay for texture and volume, and rosemary or lemon essential oil for freshness.

For Dark Brown Hair

If you have brown, dark, or auburn/red hair, cocoa powder is a must in your base. Arrowroot and cornstarch with activated charcoal will help detoxify, and essential oils like peppermint will add shine.

For Light Hair

Use arrowroot or cornstarch mixed as your base, and avoid dark pigment powders like cocoa powder, charcoal, or cinnamon. Essential oils like lavender or rosemary help enhance scalp circulation.

How To Make a Scalp Scrub at Home: DIY Dry Shampoo Recipes

Ready to mix up your own DIY dry shampoo?

These homemade dry shampoo recipes are simple and can be made with ingredients you already have in your kitchen. 

Grab a spoon, and an empty jar for storage. Each recipe is fully customizable, allowing you to tweak the ingredients to match your hair color, texture, and specific scalp needs.

Before you start:

A few quick tips to get the most out of your homemade dry shampoo:

Detangle your hair before applying, as it helps distribute the powder evenly.

Focus on your roots.

Always use it on dry hair for best results.

Classic Powder DIY Dry Shampoo for Blonde Hair

Best for: Daily refresh and oily roots

Ingredients:

• 3 tbsp cornstarch

• 1 tbsp arrowroot powder

• 2-3 drops lavender essential oil

Instructions:

1. Combine all the ingredients in a small jar or shaker and stir well.

2. Lightly sprinkle the powder onto your roots, working section by section.

3. Massage gently with your fingertips, then brush through to blend.

Tip: This classic blend is simple, effective, and leaves your roots fresh without any residue, a true staple for lighter hair tones.

Dark Hair Cocoa Dry Shampoo

Best for: Dark or brunette hair, subtle root refresh

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp arrowroot powder

• 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder

• 2 drops rosemary essential oil

Instructions:

1. Mix the powders in a small jar until evenly blended.

2. Using your fingertips or a fluffy brush, apply to the roots.

3. Massage into your scalp and style as usual.

Tip: The cocoa powder gives a warm tint that blends beautifully with darker shades and prevents white residue from appearing.

Peppermint DIY Dry Shampoo

Best for: Quick touch-upon the gogo, for brunettes add unsweetened cocoa powder

Ingredients:

• 1 tsp baking soda

• 2 tsp cornstarch 

• 3 drops peppermint essential oil

• 1 tsp white vinegar (optional, for extra cleansing)

Instructions:

1. Add all ingredients to a small spray bottle and shake well before each use.

2. Lightly mist your roots from about 6-8 inches away.

3. Massage the scalp with your fingertips and let it air dry.

Tip: Perfect for travel days, gym bags, or quick post-workout touch-ups, it leaves your hair feeling cool and refreshed.

Volumizing Oat Dry Shampoo

Best for: Fine hair that needs extra texture and lift

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp finely ground oats

• 2 tbsp cornstarch

• 3 drops lavender or rosemary essential oil

Instructions:

1. Blend the ingredients in a jar until smooth and even.

2. Apply to the roots, let it sit for 2–3 minutes to absorb oil.

3. Massage and brush through gently for soft, weightless volume.

Tip: Oats not only soak up excess oil but also add a subtle softness and bounce to fine strands.

How to Apply DIY Dry Shampoo

Using DIY dry shampoo correctly turns it into more than a quick fix. You’ll enjoy refreshed hair that looks and feels clean and natural, all while avoiding the harsh chemicals that store-bought products often leave behind.

When to Use DIY Dry Shampoo

The frequency depends on your hair type, level of oiliness, hair-washing routine, lifestyle, etc. If your scalp gets greasy quickly or you use multiple styling products, apply your homemade dry shampoo once every two days. On the other hand, if your hair is naturally dry or fine, start with once or twice a week to avoid buildup. Environmental factors like humidity and seasonal changes also play a role in determining how often you may need a refresh.

Personally, I reach for my DIY dry shampoo around once a week during humid summers when my roots get oily faster, and I’m very busy with work or other projects. There are times when I barely use it in a month because I also wash my hair more often. It all depends. 

In winter, when my scalp is less oily and my hair is drier, I cut back and barely use it. Listening to your hair is key; it will tell you when it needs a boost.

General tips for determining frequency:

• Start slowly, once a week, and see how your hair reacts.

• Increase usage if your roots get oily quickly or if you want extra volume.

• Reduce frequency if your hair feels heavy, dry, or powdery.

Step-by-Step Application Tips

Start with dry hair: Applying powder or spray to wet or damp hair reduces effectiveness, as the powder won’t absorb oil properly and may clump.

Section your hair: Divide your hair into manageable sections. This ensures the DIY dry shampoo reaches all oily areas, particularly near the roots, behind the ears, and along the hairline, places that are easy to miss.

Apply the dry shampoo: For powder versions, apply the powder directly to the roots using a brush.

For spray versions, shake well and spritz lightly. Focus on roots rather than the lengths to avoid weighing down your strands.

Distribute and massage: Using your fingertips, massage the DIY powder into your scalp. Think of it as a light, soothing massage rather than scrubbing. This helps the powder absorb oil and evenly refresh roots without leaving residue.

Focus on the oiliest areas of your hair first: Most people have a few zones that get greasy faster, usually along the part, crown, and hairline. Start with these areas and then lightly dust the remaining roots.

Wait a few minutes: Allow the DIY dry shampoo to sit on your roots for approximately 3 minutes. This gives it time to refresh your hair and absorb oil before brushing or styling. For spray versions, letting the liquid dry completely prevents damp spots and ensures a natural finish.

Brush or style: Once absorbed, lightly brush through your hair or fluff with your fingers to blend or remove any excess powder. If there is still some stubborn leftover powder, lightly mist it with water, and voilà! 

Post-Application Care

After using your homemade dry shampoo, refresh your hair with a few drops of bonding oil or a leave-in conditioner, applied only to the ends, to maintain hydration.

Protect your hair from sun or heat styling by using a UV-protective serum or spray.

DIY Dry Shampoo FAQs & Tips

• Can I use DIY dry shampoo on color-treated hair?

  Yes! Stick to gentle powders, such as cornstarch, arrowroot, or cocoa powder. Avoid harsh clays or strong essential oils that might fade color.

• How often should I use DIY dry shampoo?

  Once or twice a week is enough to refresh roots and extend the time between washes.

Customization & Self-Care Tips:

Your hair changes with the seasons, workout routines, diet, and stress, so feel free to experiment with your own DIY dry shampoo blends. Mix powders, adjust essential oils, and find what works for you to keep your hair feeling fresh and vibrant.

If you enjoy creating your own products, you’ll love trying these DIY hair masks and DIY scalp scrubs.

Don’t miss our other DIY beauty recipes, including DIY hair oils, and even DIY body scrubs made with simple, natural ingredients.

Pin this article to save it for later so you can revisit your favorite scalp scrub recipe anytime. And if you’ve tried your own DIY hair scrub or have a go-to blend you swear by, share it in the comments. I’d love to keep this self-care ritual going together.

Besitos,

Laura

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