Colorado, Utah, and Arizona all host Inspire Greatness Aveda Institutes, but that’s not the only thing they have in common. In all three states (and across the country), life gets busy. Despite how carefully we craft our haircare routines, our schedules don’t always allow for their execution. This is why dry shampoo is quickly becoming a popular method for quickly fixing our day-three, no-wash hair.

While dry shampoo is undoubtedly good at disguising unwashed hair and creating a feeling of freshness, these are only two of the product’s superpowers. The Inspire Greatness Aveda Institutes is here to ensure that you’re making the most of your favorite haircare tools — whether you’re recommending them to a client, or re-touching your own hair.

What is Dry Shampoo?

You’ve likely heard a friend or stylist laud the magical properties of dry shampoo. You’ve made even crowned yourself with its mist once or twice yourself. When it comes down to it though, what is dry shampoo? How does it work? 

Dry shampoo is typically an alcohol- or starch-based spray. As you go about your days, your hair follicles release an oil (called sebum). While sebum is perfectly natural and serves a purpose in protecting the growth and moisture of your hair, it can build up after too many days without washing. This accumulation, combined with daily sweat, can result in hair that appears and feels greasy.

In its most basic uses, dry shampoo can help soak up this excess moisture and restore your hair to feeling clean and style-ready.

How Often Can You Use Dry Shampoo?

Though dry shampoo might feel like magic, it does have its limitations. Relying on dry shampoo for too many days in a row can cause product build-up on top of the sebum. This counteracts the dry shampoo disguise and can cause irritation. You’ll want to carefully read the bottle of your preferred product to familiarize yourself with its usage instructions.

Despite these warnings, dry shampoo can certainly be used outside of emergency situations. In fact, it can find a place in your style routine even when you’re working with freshly cleaned hair.

What Can Dry Shampoo be Used For? 

Dry shampoo’s absorption properties can be taken advantage of in many ways. Its starchy ingredients help give a bit of “hold” to any up-do, without the harsh constraints of a traditional hairspray. It can also be used to secure delicate bobby pins or clips — ensuring that your hair accessories stay firmly in place.

Many popular hairstyles can be enhanced through the use of dry shampoo. As you start a new up-do, the product can be used to brush out any remaining bumps or stray curls from previous ponies. It’s also a quick and easy way to add volume.

Finally, you can rest assured that dry shampoo’s moisture-wicking tendencies will keep your hair in place all day long. There’s no need to fear curls clumping, or stray hairs clinging to any sweat or grease on your face.

Needless to say, if you’re looking to invest in a multi-faceted, life-saving spray — think dry shampoo. And if you’re looking to take the next step in your hairstyling journey, visit the Inspire Greatness Aveda Institute’s blog for more tricks, tips, and educational resources.