If your hair starts looking oily just a day or two after washing, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to reach for expensive store-bought dry shampoos filled with ingredients you can’t pronounce. This simple DIY dry shampoo is a natural, affordable alternative you can make at home in just a few minutes, using ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
What makes this recipe especially great is that it works for all hair colors. Whether your hair is blonde, brunette, or dark, you can easily adjust the shade so it blends in naturally without leaving a white residue.
It refreshes your roots, absorbs excess oil, and adds volume—so your hair looks clean and revived between washes without the hassle.
In this post, I’ll walk you through exactly how to make it, how to customize it for your hair color, and the best way to apply it for the most natural finish.
What Is Dry Shampoo?
Dry shampoo is a powder that helps absorb oil at the roots of your hair.
It’s useful for:
- Refreshing hair between washes
- Reducing greasy roots
- Adding light volume and texture
This DIY version is lightweight and made with simple ingredients.
Watch the full Video on Making Dry Shampoo
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Why These Ingredients Work
Each ingredient in this recipe has a purpose:
- Arrowroot Powder or Cornstarch – absorbs excess oil and refreshes the scalp
- Kaolin Clay – improves texture and gives a lighter feel
- Cocoa Powder – adds natural color for blending into darker hair
- Activated Charcoal – deepens color for black hair and helps absorb oil
- Essential Oils (optional) – add a light, fresh scent
If you enjoy working with simple ingredients, you may also like this After Sun Lotion Recipe
Base Recipe (Blonde Hair)
This is the base recipe and works as-is for blonde hair.
Ingredients (Blonde Hair)
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Arrowroot Powder | 2 Tbsp |
| Kaolin Clay | 1 tsp |
| Essential Oils | 2–3 drops |
Light Brown Hair Recipe
For light brown hair, a small amount of cocoa powder helps the mixture blend more naturally.
Ingredients (Light Brown Hair)
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Arrowroot Powder | 2 Tbsp |
| Kaolin Clay | 1 tsp |
| Cocoa Powder | 1 tsp |
| Essential Oils | 2–3 drops |
Dark Brown Hair Recipe
For darker hair, additional cocoa powder prevents a powdery look.
Ingredients (Dark Brown Hair)
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Arrowroot Powder | 2 Tbsp |
| Kaolin Clay | 1 tsp |
| Cocoa Powder | 2 tsp |
| Essential Oils | 2–3 drops |
Black Hair Recipe
For black hair, activated charcoal deepens the tone for better blending.
Ingredients (Black Hair)
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Arrowroot Powder | 2 Tbsp |
| Kaolin Clay | 1 tsp |
| Cocoa Powder | 1 tsp |
| Activated Charcoal | 1 tsp |
| Essential Oils | 2–3 drops |
How to Make DIY Dry Shampoo
Add your base powders
In a bowl, add the arrowroot powder, kaolin clay and essential oil Mix them together well until fully combined and smooth.
Add color for your hair type
Now adjust the shade to match your hair color. Add cocoa powder for a warmer, darker tone or activated charcoal for deeper brunette or black hair. Light hair may only need a small pinch of cocoa powder or none at all.
Mix very well
Stir everything together thoroughly, making sure to break up any clumps as you go. This step is important so the color and oils are evenly blended into the base.
Your DIY dry shampoo is now ready to use—store it in a small airtight jar or container for easy application between washes.
How to Use
- Apply a small amount to the roots
- Use your fingers or a fluffy makeup brush
- Blend well until it disappears into your hair
Start with a small amount and add more if needed.
Tips for Best Results
- Focus on oily areas like the crown and front
- Blend well to avoid visible powder
- Use a brush for more even application
- A small amount is usually enough
Frequently Asked Questions
How often can I use dry shampoo?
Use as needed between washes, while continuing regular hair washing.
Will this work on all hair types?
Yes, but you may need to adjust how much you use depending on your hair.
Can I skip the essential oils?
Yes, they are optional.
