Whether you're camping, commuting, squeezing in a few extra hours of sleep, or trying to stretch your wash days, dry shampoo can be your best friend.
But (there’s always a but!) while conventional options promise convenience, they come at a cost. Most are packaged in aerosol cans that emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and contribute to plastic pollution.
With roughly 95% of cosmetic packaging ending up in landfills and 20–40% of beauty products wasted unused, it’s clear we need a more sustainable solution.
Enter natural dry shampoo: a clean, effective alternative that refreshes your hair while reducing your environmental footprint.
In this guide, we’ll highlight out two favorite dry shampoos at EarthHero, offer application tips, and answer FAQs to help you choose the right one for your hair type and lifestyle.
Why Switch to Natural Dry Shampoo?
Most conventional dry shampoos rely on aerosol delivery systems that contain butane, propane, and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs), alongside synthetic fragrances.
These compounds contribute to indoor and outdoor air pollution, and studies have linked them to a range of health concerns, including skin irritation, respiratory issues, headaches, and neurological symptoms.
Natural powder-based dry shampoos offer an effective, eco-friendly alternative. They use gentle, oil-absorbing ingredients like arrowroot, clay, and cocoa powder to refresh your hair without the toxins.
Powder-based options also tend to be more concentrated, last longer, and come in zero waste or recyclable packaging. It’s a win for your wallet and the environment.
Top Picks: Two Natural Dry Shampoos We Love
1. Captain Blankenship Arrowroot Dry Shampoo
Key Ingredients: Organic arrowroot powder, kaolin clay, aluminum-free baking soda, organic geranium and palmarosa oils
Packaging: Compostable tube + recyclable lid
Breathe new life into unwashed hair with this lightweight, volumizing formula. The combination of arrowroot and clay mattifies grease, while essential oils give your hair a clean, fresh scent. Great for all hair types and perfect for daily use or travel.
Shop Captain Blankenship Dry Shampoo
2. Fat and the Moon Lavender + Cocoa Dry Shampoo
Key Ingredients: Organic cocoa powder, lavender, starch, clay
Packaging: Low-waste, plastic-free
Extend your style and smell like dessert with this cocoa-scented favorite. The tint from the cocoa powder makes it ideal for brunettes, but it blends well on lighter tones too. Use a makeup brush to apply, then brush through for instantly refreshed roots.
Shop Fat and the Moon Dry Shampoo
How to Use Powder Dry Shampoo
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Start with dry hair. Powder dry shampoos won't work on damp strands.
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Use a brush or fingertips to apply a small amount directly to the roots.
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Focus on oily areas, especially the crown and hairline.
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Wait a few minutes to let the powder absorb oils.
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Brush through thoroughly or massage with your fingers to blend.
Pro tip: Wrap a towel around your shoulders to avoid fallout and build the habit of applying before bed to wake up with volume.
FAQs: Your Dry Shampoo Questions Answered
What’s the best dry shampoo for dark hair?
Look for formulas with a natural tint, like Fat and the Moon's cocoa powder blend. These reduce the risk of a white cast and blend better with brunette or black hair.
Can I use natural dry shampoo on colored hair?
Yes! Powder dry shampoos are actually gentler on color-treated hair because they don’t strip or dry out your strands. Just be sure to brush through thoroughly.
How often should I use dry shampoo?
2–3 times a week is a good rule of thumb. Overuse can lead to buildup, so balance it with regular washing.
Benefits of Powders vs Aerosols
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Eco-Friendly |
✅ Compostable/recyclable packaging |
❌ Often non-recyclable |
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VOC Emissions |
✅ None |
❌ Often high |
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Travel-friendly |
✅ TSA-safe, non-flammable |
❌ Restricted on flights |
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Precision |
✅ Apply exactly where needed |
❌ Can spray too widely, wasting product |
Final Thoughts
Dry shampoo can be a hair and time-saver, but it doesn’t have to cost the earth.
By switching to a natural dry shampoo, you reduce packaging waste, skip the synthetic chemicals, and keep your hair looking and feeling fresh between washes.
Pair your new dry shampoo with other eco-friendly haircare like shampoo bars, natural conditioners, and accessories like the bamboo hair brush or organic hair scrunchies.
