What is Waterless Shampoo?

If you’re in a pinch and find yourself the victim of oily roots, we know one hair care product that’s about to become your new BFF: waterless shampoo. Below, we’re filling you in on what waterless shampoo is, how it works, and how you can add it to your hair care routine.  

WHAT IS WATERLESS SHAMPOO?

You may be wondering, "what’s the difference between waterless shampoo and dry shampoo?" Well, actually, there is no difference! The two are one are the same, but waterless shampoo is sometimes used as a broader term to describe different types of dry shampoo formulas. While dry shampoo is often solely associated with an aerosol spray, it can also come in an array of different forms, such as foam and powder. You may see these forms referred to as waterless shampoos, but it’s all the same thing.

HOW DOES WATERLESS SHAMPOO WORK?

Waterless shampoo, or dry shampoo, works its magic by soaking up the excess oil and residue from your roots. By doing so, your hair and scalp are left feeling clean and refreshed. Bonus: It’ll also add back some volume and bounce to once lifeless locks. The best part is, this type of shampoo doesn’t require any rinsing—making it ideal for when you’re on the go or pressed for time.

OUR BEST WATERLESS SHAMPOO

Now that you’re filled in on the wonder that is waterless shampoo, you may be anxious to get your hands on one. Look no further than our best waterless shampoo, the L’Oréal Paris Elvive Extraordinary Clay Dry Shampoo. This dry shampoo is infused with three refined clays, which work together to instantly refresh hair between shampoos for clean-feeling, lightweight hair. What’s more: Unlike many other dry shampoos, this one won’t leave any residue in its wake. Formulated for normal to oily hair, the only thing left behind on your mane will be the feeling of instant purity and freshness. Need we say more?

HOW TO ADD A WATERLESS SHAMPOO TO YOUR HAIR CARE ROUTINE

Ready to put your waterless shampoo to use? Follow the steps below to learn to use dry shampoo as part of your hair care routine.

STEP #1: SHAKE IT UP

Before you put your waterless shampoo to use, shake the can or bottle to get the formula mixed up and ready to work its magic.

STEP #2: FOCUS ON YOUR ROOTS

Your roots tend to be the first spot to get greasy, necessitating a waterless shampoo. This is because your hair’s natural oils come from the oil glands on your scalp. These oils eventually travel down the length of your hair, reaching and helping to nourish your ends, but they can also excessively build up at your roots when you skip a wash or two. Whenever you notice a bit too much oil beginning to take hold at your roots, grab your waterless shampoo. To apply, hold the can six to eight inches away from your hair, then spray away, focusing primarily on your roots, of course!

STEP #3: APPLY ONTO THE REST OF YOUR MANE

Once your roots have been tackled, continue to spritz some of your waterless dry shampoo throughout your mane to add volume and soak up any oil that may be weighing down your tresses. Follow the same method, holding the can six to eight inches away before spritzing.

STEP #4: BRUSH YOUR HAIR

Now that you’ve applied your waterless shampoo all over, it’s time to blend the product through your locks so no one can see any leftover residue. To do so, simply brush your hair, give it a fluff with your hands, and go about your day. Easy as that!

3 MORE HAIR CARE TIPS FOR OILY ROOTS

Don’t have time to run to the store and get a waterless shampoo? Don’t fret! There are a few other quick fixes for oily roots that you can put to use in a pinch.

OILY HAIR TIP #1: BRUSH YOUR HAIR

Believe it or not, something as simple as brushing your hair can make a difference in your oily roots. This is because brushing your mane helps to distribute your hair’s oils throughout your locks, rather than leaving them to sit at your roots.

OILY HAIR TIP #2: POP ON AN ACCESSORY

When in doubt, accessorize it out! A hat, head wrap, or headband can help disguise oily roots while also giving your beauty look an on-trend touch.

OILY HAIR TIP #3: CHANGE YOUR PART

Have a bias towards the middle part? It may be time to switch things up. A deep side part can help hide your oily roots—consider this your chance to try something new!

Next: How to Manage Greasy Hair