Q&A

Dry shampoo – the champion of rushed mornings, the saviour of dirty hair! For many, it has become a hair routine must. But can its repeated use be problematic?

How does dry shampoo work?

Contrary to what its name suggests, it has nothing to do with a shampoo! It’s a powder-based product that absorbs excess sebum and refreshes the scalp. Often scented, it eliminates unwanted odours.

What are the basic ingredients?

The concept has existed for centuries, but dry shampoo as we know it today was first commercially produced in the 1940s. Happily, the formulas have greatly evolved since.

Many dry shampoos contain the following absorbents: rice starch, clay, charcoal or bamboo powder. These are safe alternatives to talc, an ingredient known to be potentially harmful to health.

It should be pointed out that aerosol formulas, which contain propellants, are more polluting than loose powders. However, the first option is more practical. It all depends on your preferences.

Does it damage the hair?

Dry shampoos can be harmful if the scalp is not properly cleaned. Accumulated residue can block the pores and promote the growth of bacteria, causing pimples, dandruff or even dermatitis. It’s recommended you use a clarifying shampoo once a week to prevent complications.

In some cases, using dry shampoo can alter the hair loss process due to the product adhering to the scalp. If, when showering, you notice a greater-than-usual hair loss, it may simply be dead hair that was trapped by an accumulation of the product.

Should you limit usage?

It’s a temporary solution, for sure. Dry shampoos do not replace conventional shampooing. It is important to fully eliminate residue and to clean thoroughly to maintain a healthy scalp.

Some experts recommend not using dry shampoo every day but, rather, occasionally. The general consensus is that dry shampooing is harmless. Just follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use common sense!