In order to understand what dry shampoo is, it might help to have an understanding of regular wet shampoo and how it works. Shampoo works because it contains surfactants; those are ingredients that loosen the oil, dirt and any buildup of old styling products that cling to the hair, so that they can be easily washed away with water. Dry shampoo works similarly, by absorbing the oil that clings to the hair. It is a powder based product. The dry shampoo is applied and the oil from the hair and scalp clings to the powder particles, then when you brush out the powder, it takes the oil with it.

At one time all dry shampoos generally had talc as the main ingredient. In fact, years ago people would use talc-based baby powder as a dry shampoo substitute in an emergency. It left a white residue and of course the instantly recognizable fragrance would clash with a sophisticated, sexy perfume, but it was the best available at the time, and it beat going out with greasy hair. Today, many people prefer to use plant-derived powder products. These might be corn starch, oat flour, potato starch, or other powders that do not have a petroleum or mineral base.

The modern dry shampoo products come in many different varieties, reflecting today’s concerns and lifestyles. Besides plant versus talc based, consumers can also choose between aerosol and non-aerosol containers. Some people prefer to avoid aerosols as an ecological concern and some just find pump dispensers less wasteful because they give more control over how much product is applied and where.

re intended to help with aromas that can cling to the hair and scalp between shampoos. If you’ve been exposed to cigarette smoke or cooking odors and want to freshen up, you will probably want to choose a scented product.

Travelers, convalescents, and busy people generally find that dry shampoo can be a quick way to boost your look when starting from scratch just isn’t possible. What is dry shampoo? It’s a convenient beauty aid that you may want to add to your kit.