The DIY Dry Shampoo Guide for Every Hair Type

Whether you’re jet-lagged, camping, avoiding the cold shower in winter, or just giving your hair a break, dry shampoo’s got your back.

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But store-bought dry shampoos are often filled with petrochemicals, propellants, and a scent that screams, “I tried to cover this up!” Luckily, you can whip up your own dry shampoo at home with ingredients from your kitchen. Speaking of which, DIY deodorants are also an option.

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Why Go DIY?

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Making your own dry shampoo comes with some serious perks. You'll know exactly what's going into your hair since you're using simple, clean ingredients. You can customize every batch to match your hair color and add your favorite scents. It’s also sustainable since you’re skipping those aerosol cans, plastic packaging, and, of course, it’s easy on your wallet.

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Pro tip: As with any new formula, you may want to spot test your DIY dry shampoo a few times, especially if you have a sensitive scalp.

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Also read: 7 Places to Get Rid of Microplastics in Your Bathroom

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All dry shampoos have two main jobs:

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1. Absorb oil (that’s the job of starches and clays),
2. Blend in with your hair color (so you’re not walking around with ghost roots).

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Here are some of the core ingredients that you’ll need to make one:

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• Oil absorber: Arrowroot powder, cornstarch, or rice flour.
• Color adjuster: Cocoa powder, cinnamon, activated charcoal, or bentonite clay.
• Optional: Essential oils (for scent), baking soda (for extra oil-fighting), or kaolin clay (for gentle cleansing).

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To make it easier for you, we have broken down the recipes by hair type and color:

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DIY Dry Shampoo Recipes

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Here are some dry shampoo recipes depending on your hair’s vibe.

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For Light Hair (Blondes, Greys, and Silvers)

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Ingredients:

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• 2 tbsp arrowroot powder or cornstarch
• 1 tbsp rice flour (extra absorbency)
• Optional: 2 drops of lavender or rosemary essential oil

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Why it works: This combo is invisible on light strands and keeps your scalp calm.

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For Brunettes

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Ingredients:

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• 2 tbsp arrowroot powder
• 1 tbsp cocoa powder (unsweetened!)
• Optional: ½ tsp cinnamon (if you want warmth)

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Why it works: Cocoa blends in beautifully with darker roots while adding a delicious smell. Just be careful — don’t use Dutch-processed cocoa, which can stain.

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For Black or Very Dark Brown Hair

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Ingredients:

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• 1 tbsp arrowroot powder
• 1 tbsp activated charcoal or finely ground black clay
• ½ tbsp cocoa powder
• Optional: 1 drop tea tree oil (fights bacteria)

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Why it works: Charcoal helps with oil and odor control, and this mix disappears into darker hair.

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For Red or Auburn Hair

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Ingredients:

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• 2 tbsp arrowroot powder
• 1 tbsp cinnamon
• 1 tsp paprika (yes, really)
• Optional: a drop of orange essential oil

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Why it works: These spices blend beautifully with red tones, and they smell kind of amazing.

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For Extra Oily Scalps

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Ingredients:

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• 1 tbsp arrowroot powder
• 1 tbsp kaolin clay
• 1 tsp baking soda
• Optional: peppermint essential oil for a tingly clean feel

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Why it works: Baking soda gives a deep cleanse (use sparingly—sensitive scalps may find it too drying).

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For Sensitive Scalps

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Ingredients:

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• 2 tbsp oat flour or finely ground oats
• 1 tbsp arrowroot powder
• 1 tbsp kaolin clay

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Why it works: Oats soothe the scalp, and kaolin gently cleanses without irritation.