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

The following content may contain affiliate links. When you click and shop the links, we receive a commission.

Dry shampoo is a lifesaver on busy mornings, post-workout refreshes, and when extending a blowout. With so many formula options, finding the perfect one for your hair type and lifestyle can feel overwhelming – especially with so many people recommending so many different products. 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.

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

Best Overall Dry Shampoo: Eleven Australia

Eleven Australia Dry Shampoo is my top pick because it delivers on all fronts—lightweight, effective at absorbing oil, and leaves no white cast. It refreshes the scalp without causing buildup and has a pleasant, clean scent. Unlike some other brands that leave hair feeling gritty or weighed down, this one maintains a soft, natural texture. This is my personal favorite (see the rest of my everyday hair care here), but it’s becoming really hard to find! I am worried they’re retiring it for their new Dry Shampoo Volume Paste, which I haven’t tried yet.

We can all cross our fingers that they’ll restock the regular formula on Eleven Australia’s site.

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 clean beauty option, Primally Pure’s dry shampoo is the best non-toxic choice. Made with organic ingredients and free from aerosols, it 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, 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. 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. But since you have to apply it manually, it requires just a little bit more effort.

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.

Best Drugstore Dry Shampoo: Monday

Monday’s Dry Shampoo proves that an effective product doesn’t have to be expensive. Available at major retailers, it provides excellent oil absorption 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. This is what I’ve been using recently since I was out of my other favorites! You can’t beat the price or prime shipping.

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 seamlessly blend into darker hair while absorbing excess oil. It also has a signature argan oil-infused formula that helps condition the hair and reduce dullness.

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. The luxurious scent and ultra-fine mist make it a standout in high-end haircare, making it worth the splurge for those who love a premium product.

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 formula with a mild or natural fragrance. 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 their 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 love how much control that gives me.

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, as they can dry out the scalp and cause irritation.

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?

Shop The Post