Easy & Budget-Friendly Homemade Dry Shampoo

Homemade Dry Shampoo is an easy, cost-effective way to refresh your hair without water. It absorbs excess oil, adds volume, and extends the time between washes.

Using simple ingredients like cornstarch or arrowroot powder for light hair and cocoa powder for dark hair, you can customize it to your needs.

This DIY alternative is free of harsh chemicals, budget-friendly, and quick to make. Plus, it helps maintain your hairstyle for longer.

With minimal effort, you get a natural, effective solution for fresh-looking hair.

For more DIY beauty ideas, check out our guide on homemade beauty products!

Does homemade dry shampoo actually work?

Yes! It absorbs excess oil, refreshes hair, and adds volume — just like store-bought versions but without the added chemicals. Ingredients like arrowroot powder, cornstarch and essential oils help soak up grease and leave hair feeling fresh.  

While it won’t clean your hair like a traditional wash, it’s a great way to extend time between washes, reduce oil buildup, and add texture to your hair. 

How do you make your own dry shampoo?

• Choose the right base powder – For light hair, cornstarch or arrowroot powder works best. For dark hair, use cocoa powder or activated charcoal.
• Add essential oils – Lavender, peppermint, or rosemary oils can provide a fresh scent and even promote hair health. Only one drop is needed. 
• Store properly – Keep the dry shampoo in an airtight container to maintain its effectiveness and scent.
• Use a brush or applicator – Apply dry shampoo to your roots using a makeup brush or shaker bottle for precise distribution.
• Test before full use – Always test a small amount on your scalp to ensure no allergic reactions or residue issues.

Is arrowroot or cornstarch better for dry shampoo?

Both work well for dry shampoo, but the best choice depends on your hair type and personal preference:  

• Arrowroot Powder – Lighter and finer in texture, making it easier to blend into the scalp. It absorbs oil well without being too heavy, making it a great option for those with sensitive scalps or fine hair.  
• Cornstarch – Slightly heavier and more absorbent, making it ideal for those with oily hair. However, it can sometimes leave a white cast on darker hair if not blended properly.  

If you have sensitive skin or prefer a lighter feel, arrowroot may be the better choice. If you need stronger oil absorption, cornstarch might work best. You can also mix both.

2pcs 10ml/0.34oz Plastic Empty Travel Small Loose Powder Compact Refillable Loose Powder Containers Reusable No Leak Compact with Rotatable Sifter and Black Screw LidEssential Oils Set – Top 20 Gift Set Oils for Diffusers, Humidifiers, Massages, Aromatherapy, Candle Making, Skin & Hair Care – Peppermint, Tea Tree, Lavender, Eucalyptus, Lemongrass (10mL)Organic Arrowroot Powder (Flour), 5lb (80oz) | Premium Source from Arrowroot Plants | Unflavored Thickening Agent for Cooking & Baking | Substitute for Cornstarch or Wheat | Non-GMO, Gluten Free

 

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Love this topic? Check out these posts too for more easy DIYs, eco-friendly tips, and natural beauty ideas you’ll want to try!

• Easy Ways to Live More Sustainably start with simple swaps like reusable bags, composting, and reducing single-use plastics in your daily routine.
• Learn how to make Shampoo Bars at home using natural ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, and essential oils for a plastic-free, eco-friendly hair care option.
• How to Use Essential Oils in the Shower by adding a few drops to a washcloth, shower steamer, or the walls of your shower for an instant aromatherapy boost.