The Best Dry Shampoos (from Non-Toxic to Budget-Friendly)

For years, I avoided dry shampoo because I hated how it made my hair look and feel (stiff, dirty and chalky), and I usually reacted to the smell. But dry shampoo is a lifesaver on busy mornings, post-workout, and when extending a blowout.

So, I began a mission to find the perfect dry shampoo – one that adds volume, made my hair look and feel cleaner, and that didn’t make my throat close from the smell. And I found some winners! Whether you’re looking for a non-toxic formula, a budget-friendly option, or something that works specifically for oily or fine hair, I’ve rounded up the best dry shampoos to suit every need.

And if you do want to wash and style your hair, see my hair care routine here.

The Best Dry Shampoos (from Non-Toxic to Budget-Friendly)

Best Overall Dry Shampoo: Crown Affair

My top pick for dry shampoo is the Crown Affair Dry Shampoo. It hardly has a scent which is perfect if you’re sensitive to strong fragrances like me or just want something low-key. It gives you a lot of control during application, so you don’t have powder going everywhere. The texture is amazing, it’s super soft, easy to blend, and melts right into your hair without leaving a white cast. I love that this dry shampoo also adds volume, making your hair feel fresh and full without weighing it down.

The only downside is that when you dip your brush into the product, it can create a little cloud of dust. But if you hold it over your sink, it’s easy to manage and not a big deal. A caveat worth mentioning is that if your hair is really oily, this one might not be quite strong enough on its own. But overall, it’s a solid, clean-feeling option that’s earned a permanent spot in my routine.

Best Drugstore Dry Shampoo: Monday

Monday’s Dry Shampoo proves that an effective product doesn’t have to be expensive. You can buy this at most major retailers and it absorbs oil well, but at a fraction of the price of high-end brands. It has a lightweight, non-chalky formula that blends well into hair without a strong fragrance — however, I found it does leave a a white cast but it brushed out easily for me.

Best Dry Shampoo for Oily Hair: Living Proof Perfect Hair Day

Living Proof has a cult following for a reason—it works. The Perfect Hair Day dry shampoo is one of the best formulas for tackling excess oil and sweat, making it a go-to for post-workout touch-ups. However, while its oil-absorbing power is top-tier, I’m not a fan of the scent. If you’re sensitive to fragrances, this one may not be for you. It’s just too strong for me.

Best Non-Toxic Dry Shampoo: Primally Pure

If you’re looking for a non-toxic option, go for Primally Pure’s dry shampoo. It’s made with organic ingredients and free from aerosols, and uses natural absorbents like arrowroot and kaolin clay to soak up oil while supporting scalp health. The powder formula has a bit of a learning curve (it can be messy), but once you get used to it, it’s a great alternative to chemical-heavy sprays. The best thing about Primally Pure dry shampoo is that you can get it in a light or dark formula – I know my brunettes are happy to hear that.

I have a full review of my favorite Primally Pure products here.

Best Powder Dry Shampoo: Crown Affair

Crown Affair’s dry shampoo powder is a luxurious option that blends effortlessly into the hair. It comes with a built-in brush applicator for easy, mess-free application (vs Primally Pure’s dry shampoo that you shake into hair). Unlike traditional aerosols, this formula is ultra-fine, lightweight, and won’t cause buildup. It’s great for those who prefer a more natural and refined finish (another reason it’s my top choice).

Best Dry Shampoo for Fine or Thin Hair: Divi

Fine or thin hair needs a dry shampoo that won’t weigh it down, and Divi’s dry shampoo formula does just that. It refreshes the scalp without making hair feel heavy or sticky. It also contains scalp-nourishing ingredients, which can be a bonus for those concerned about hair health and growth. I use Divi’s Scalp Serum daily, as well to help with postpartum hair loss.

I have mixed feelings about the scent of the Divi dry shampoo – while I didn’t react to the smell, I noticed it all day, which I didn’t love. But, it’s worth trying if you have thin hair since they have a great return policy.

Best Dry Shampoo for Dark Hair: Moroccanoil Dry Shampoo for Dark Tones

Finding a dry shampoo that doesn’t leave a white cast on dark hair can be tricky. Many powders and aerosols contain starches that can be difficult to blend. Moroccanoil Dry Shampoo for Dark Tones is tinted to blend seamlessly into darker hair while absorbing excess oil. It also has an argan oil-infused formula that helps condition the hair and reduce dullness. I haven’t tried this one, but it has a cult following – if you’ve tried it, leave a comment with your experience!

Best Department Store Dry Shampoo: Oribe Gold Lust Dry Shampoo

If you’re looking for a salon-quality dry shampoo, Oribe Gold Lust Dry Shampoo is a top-tier pick. It absorbs oil without dulling the hair, leaving it fresh and full of volume. Its ultra-fine mist makes it a standout, making it worth the splurge for those who love a premium product. It also has a cult following for the smell, but I didn’t like the scent of this one – it was far too strong for me. But if you like your hair to have an almost-perfume-like smell, it’s worth trying. Buy it from Nordstrom so you can return it if you don’t like the smell.

What to Consider When Choosing a Dry Shampoo

Scents & Fragrances

Some dry shampoos have strong perfumes, while others are fragrance-free or lightly scented. If you’re sensitive to smells, opt for a mild or natural fragrance formula. And definitely don’t get Living Proof if you struggle with scents because it’s so strong.

Spray vs. Powder

Aerosols are quick and convenient, while powders offer a more natural alternative with less buildup. Both have pros and cons, depending on your hair type and needs. The Primally Pure and Crown Affair options are powders that you have to work into your hair a bit more manually, but I like how much control that gives me to prevent stiffness from too much product.

Hair Feel & Texture

Some dry shampoos leave hair feeling clean and refreshed, while others can create a gritty texture for added volume. Consider your preference when choosing a formula. If you struggle with flat hair, you’ll appreciate a dry shampoo that gives you a little lift and volume.

Ingredients & Absorbers

Look for oil-absorbing ingredients like rice starch, clay, and silica. Avoid formulas with too much alcohol, which can dry the scalp and cause irritation. Here’s a list of other ingredients you should avoid when purchasing shampoo.

Blendability & White Cast

If you have dark hair, you’ll want a dry shampoo that blends seamlessly without leaving behind a visible residue. Many brands now offer tinted formulas for brunettes.

Best for Specific Hair Types

Not all dry shampoos work for every hair type. Fine hair benefits from lightweight formulas, while oily scalps need stronger oil absorbers.

Final Thoughts

The best dry shampoo depends on your personal needs—whether it’s a budget-friendly option, a non-toxic formula, or something specifically for dark hair. My top pick is Eleven Australia for its balanced formula that works well for most hair types (but I haven’t tried their new dry shampoo paste yet). However, if you have an oily scalp, Living Proof might be your best bet, while Primally Pure is perfect for those looking for a clean alternative.

No matter which one you choose, dry shampoo can be a game-changer in your haircare routine, helping you stretch washes while keeping your strands fresh and voluminous. Let me know—what’s your go-to dry shampoo?

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