Using a dry shampoo? What to know before you spray

Dry shampoos are typically a go-to product for busy individuals. They absorb the oil in the hair, making the dirt, grime and greasiness less noticeable. Mostly made with alcohol or starch, this waterless product is more of a hair freshener. If that makes you wonder if using a dry shampoo after your daily workout session or right before a party is good for your hair, read on to know more.

BENEFITS OF DRY SHAMPOO Oil absorption: It is effective in

absorbing excess oil and sebum from the scalp, says dermatologist Dr Vichitra Sharma. It may benefit people with oily scalps and seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp when washing frequently is not possible.

Bouncy hair after workout: It can help to manage sweat and greasy look after exercising without washing hair immediately.

Hair colour maintenance: For people with coloured hair, dry shampoo can help maintain the vibrancy of hair colour by reducing the frequency of washing. Frequent hair washing can strip away colour molecules.

THE SIDE EFFECTS

Regular use of dry shampoo can lead to product build-up and clog hair follicles. This could lead to scalp irritation, itchiness and hair thinning/loss, says

Dr Sharma. If overused, it can also absorb too much natural oil, leading to dryness and dehydration of the scalp and hair. This can result in flakiness, dandruff and brittle hair.

Dry shampoo can leave a visible residue on the hair, especially if not applied and massaged properly. Alarmingly, high levels of benzene, which is known to be a carcinogen, were found in 70% of dry shampoo samples tested during a 2022 study conducted by an independent laboratory in the US. It also has harmful ingredients like asbestos fibres and magnesium silicate, talc, and aluminium compounds.