Finding the best dry shampoo can be trial and error, especially if you have fine hair, dark hair or sensitive skin. Here, our editor tested 10 different drugstore dry shampoos to see which ones worked and are worth it.
To be honest, I’ve never been a big fan of dry shampoo. I have super fine, very dark hair that gets oily easily, with a very sensitive scalp on top of that. Finding a product that works with all of the above has been challenging – the products I’ve tried in the past usually have my hair falling flat within a couple of hours. But for the days that you’re on the go, or just need a refresh (especially in the summer months), it is definitely handy to have a go-to favourite dry shampoo – so that’s what I went searching for.
My super fine, dark hair in question.
In order to find a product that actually worked for my hair, I tested 10 drugstore dry shampoos to see which ones best absorb oil, add volume, and actually keep my hair feeling clean between washes. So, whether you have fine hair that easily falls flat like me, dark roots prone to showing white residue, or an oily scalp that often needs a mid-day refresh, I found some of these affordable picks delivered salon-worthy results without the high price tag.
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Ready to find the best dry shampoo for your locks? Click below to find what you need:
- Our methodology: how we chose
- In a rush? Here are our top 3 editor’s picks
- Best dry shampoo: comparison chart
- 10 best dry shampoos: tested and reviewed
- Dry shampoos for specific hair concerns
Our Methodology: Finding the Best Dry Shampoo
In this dry shampoo review, I tried cult classics like Batiste and BedHead, as well as formulas designed specifically for brunettes like Kristin Ess, plus formulas designed specifically for day 2-3 hair.
It took a few weeks to try each of the formulas, and I tried them in different conditions, from post-run, to regular daily use, and on day 2-3 hair. The number one attribute I was looking for was that the dry shampoos actually made me feel like I freshly washed my hair, and it lasted all day.
From this, I was able to narrow it down to the best dry shampoo for my hair type (long, dark, fine hair), plus those that would work best on thick hair, or for a particular activity or event (ex: post gym or the best dry shampoo to have in your work bag).
Best Dry Shampoo: Editor’s Picks
In a hurry to find the top picks? These three products were our winners. Click below to learn more.
Top Pick for an all-day freshly-showered feel: Batiste 24hr Active Dry Shampoo
Delivers the cleanest, just-washed feel with powerful oil control, this is the best powder dry shampoo that I tried – although it does come in a spray can. This is the one I will be reaching for on busy mornings, or on post-workout hair that needs a refresh that lasts. The only downside is that it does leave white residue, so be ready for that. Shop it here.
Runner-Up for effectiveness and ease: Marc Anthony Repair Bond & Resculplex Invisible Detox Dry Shampoo
This is a clear, non-gritty formula that works for all hair colours. It’s free from sulfates and parabens, so may be a good pick for sensitive scalps. It was great for daily touch-ups that lasted for quite a few hours, without having to deal with buildup or residue. It also smells salon-fresh (in my humble opinion!). Shop it here.
Third Place best for second or third-day heavy-duty clean: Bed Head Dirty Secret
This one is best for super oily hair on wash day two or three. I found this powder spray formula powerfully tackled greasy roots and added texture, making it ideal for thicker hair. It sprays on as a powder, so it’s best to have a comb on hand to tease your hair and/or hide any residue, especially if you have darker hair. It has a subtle citrus scent. Shop it here.
Best Dry Shampoos: Quick Comparison Chart
Now, let’s get into the results for all 10 products.
When testing for the best dry shampoos, I focused on three key things: whether it left a white cast, how well it kept my hair feeling freshly washed all day, and whether it had a good scent. A dry shampoo that ticks all three boxes is a rare find—especially if you’re dealing with oily hair, fine hair, or dark hair.
Take a look at the comparison chart below to see how each product scored.
| Dry Shampoo | Price | Best For | Formula Type | Residue | Scent | Pros | Cons | Editor’s Rating |
| Batiste 24hr Active | $13.99 | Freshest shampooed feel, oily hair | Spray (powder) | Heavy white cast | Clean & fresh | Long-lasting oil strongcontrol | Not great for dark hair | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Marc Anthony Repair Bond & Resculplex | $7.99 | Sensitive scalps, all hair colours | Spray (clear) | None | Light, salon-fresh | No residue, gentle formula | Not the strongest absorption | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ |
| Bed Head Dirty Secret | $25.99 | Thick, oily hair; heavy-duty clean | Spray (powder) | Minimal | Light citrus | Very strong oil control, volumizing | May feel heavy on fine hair | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Kristin Ess Brunette Dry Shampoo | $23.79 | Dark hair, brunettes | Tinted powder spray | Minimal (tintedbruneette) | Fresh, perfumed | Great for dark hair, sulfate-free | Strong scent | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Batiste Original | $8.99 | Very oily hair | Spray | Heavy white cast | Classic fresh | Intense oil absorption, volume | Obvious residue on dark hair | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Marc Anthony 2-in-1 Adjustable | $7.99 | Versatile oil control | Spray (adjustable) | None | Laundry | Dual spray strength, clear formula | Scent may be too sweet for some | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe | $7.99 | Summer scent, oily hair | Powder spray | Moderate white cast | Toasted coconut | High oil absorption, great scent | Leaves grainyresidue on dark hair. Our bottle ran out after just a few uses. | ⭐⭐⭐½ |
| TRESemmé Volume Clean | $8.99 | Fine hair, light refresh | Spray (clear) | None | Light perfume | Lightweight, no cast | Doesn’t last all day | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Dove Dry Shampoo – Volume & Fullness | $9.87 | Fine hair, light oil | Spray (wet) | None | Light floral | Affordable, lightweight | Not for very oily hair | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Pantene Dry Shampoo Spray | $11.49 | On-the-go touch-ups | Spray | Light | Strong perfume | Small, portable | Not ideal for heavy oil | ⭐⭐⭐ |
10 Best Drugstore Dry Shampoos We Tested
We tested 10 popular drugstore dry shampoos and determined the best formulas for oily hair, dark hair, fine hair, so you can skip the wash without sacrificing freshness.
1. Batiste 24hr Active Dry Shampoo
Best for: Long-lasting (all day), just showered clean feel.
Price: $13.99
Fragrance: Sporty fresh.
Pros: Best “just-washed” feel, long-lasting formula.
Cons: White residue may be hard to blend out.
If you live an active lifestyle or go long stretches between washes, Batiste 24hr Active is a dry shampoo powder spray worth trying. It’s designed to keep hair looking fresh for up to 24 hours, making it a great choice for fitness lovers. However, like other Batiste dry shampoos, it leaves a noticeable white powder residue, which isn’t ideal for darker hair tones. Despite this, it delivers the most “shampooed” feeling out of this list, and is a strong choice for the best dry shampoo for post-workout freshness. We gave this one 5 stars.
2. Marc Anthony Repair Bond & Resculplex Invisible Detox Dry Shampoo
Best for: All hair colours – clear formula.
Price: $7.99
Fragrance: Subtle salon-fresh scent.
Pros: Safe for all colours, no residue, clean formula.
Cons: Lighter absorption may not last all day.
This the best dry shampoo for colored hair included in this review. It uses a clear formula, making it safe for all shades. The Marc Anthony Repair Bond & Resculplex Invisible Detox Dry Shampoo is gentle and formulated without sulfates or parabens, so it’s great if you’re looking for something that won’t strip your hair. While the scent is subtle and the texture feels clean, we found that the oil absorption isn’t the strongest. For minimal buildup and light refreshes, it works well, but very oily or thick hair types may need something heavier. We gave this one 4.5 stars.
3. Bed Head Dirty Secret Dry Shampoo
Best for: Second or third-day heavy-duty clean.
Price: $25.99
Fragrance: Light citrus.
Pros: Strong oil absorption, long-lasting results.
Cons: May feel heavy on finer hair types. Higher price tag.
If you’re dealing with greasy hair, Bed Head Dirty Secret lives up to its name. It’s designed for heavier oil absorption, making it a strong option for day-two or even day-three hair. This dry shampoo for oily hair absorbs and adds texture and volume. The citrus scent is fresh and not overpowering. However, those with fine or dry hair might find it too intense. Still, if you need something powerful and lasting, this is one of the best dry shampoos out there. We gave this one 4 stars.
4. Kristin Ess Style Reviving Brunette Dry Shampoo
Best for: Dark hair & brunettes (no white cast).
Price: $23.79
Fragrance: Strong “salon clean” scent – fresh and perfumed.
Pros: Brown-tinted powder, oil-absorbing, clean ingredients
Cons: Strong fragrance may not suit everyone.
This dry shampoo for dark hair is a go-to if you want a product that won’t leave a white residue. The Kristin Ess Style Reviving Brunette Dry Shampoo has a neutral brown tint that blends into darker tones, making it the best dry shampoo for dark hair on this list. It absorbs absorbs oil well, and keeps hair looking polished between washes. It’s vegan, cruelty-free, and free from sulfates and parabens, making it a safe dry shampoo option too. While the scent might be too bold for some, it’s all-around one of the best dry shampoo for brunettes. We gave this one 4 stars.
5. Batiste Original Dry Shampoo
Best for: Intense oil absorption on second or third-day hair.
Price: $8.99
Fragrance: Classic clean scent.
Pros: Affordable, super powerful oil control, adds volume.
Cons: White residue can be very noticeable on dark hair.
Batiste Original has become synonymous with dry shampoo brands, and for good reason. It’s a classic dry hair shampoo known for powerful oil absorption and volume. Ideal for oily hair, it gives hair a freshly-washed feel, even when you’re two or three days post-shampoo. However, the formula leaves a noticeable white cast, which may not suit darker hair colours. That considered, it’s still among the best dry shampoos for its effectiveness and affordability. If you’re looking for the best dry shampoo for really oily hair, this cult favourite won’t disappoint—just be ready to brush it out! We gave this one 4 stars.
6. Marc Anthony 2-in-1 Adjustable Dry Shampoo
Best for: Custom oil control for different hair needs.
Price: $7.99CAD
Fragrance: Fresh, sweet laundry scent.
Pros: Adjustable settings, no white residue, versatile use.
Cons: Scent may be too sweet for some.
This powder dry shampoo in aerosol form offers adjustable spray settings for light or heavy application. The Marc Anthony 2-in-1 Adjustable Dry Shampoo is one of the best drugstore dry shampoos for versatility, with a clear formula that won’t leave behind any white cast. If you’re looking for an option for very greasy hair, switching to the heavier spray mode delivers better oil absorption. It’s also great if you’re after a formula that won’t damage colour-treated or sensitive scalps. Whether you need just a little oil control or a full refresh, we found this product delivers. We gave this one four stars. Shop it here.
7. Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Dry Shampoo
Best for: Oily hair that needs texture and absorption.
Price: $7.99
Fragrance: Toasted coconut.
Pros: High oil absorption, beachy scent, great for summer.
Cons: Slightly gritty white cast on dark hair, doesn’t last long.
If you’re looking for a dry shampoo powder with a vacation-ready vibe, this is a good pick. Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe formula smells like a summer beach and adds volume. It does its job by soaking up oil, though it does leave a noticeable white cast that has a gritty feel if not rubbed in well, especially on darker hair. This is also meant to be a good dry shampoo for curly hair, adding some lift without stiffness. However, the canister seemed to run out quickly. With the great scent and effectiveness, we’ll definitely give it another shot, however for now, we’re giving this one 3.5 stars.
8. TRESemmé Volume Clean Dry Shampoo
Best for: Light, spray on wet formula that provides a fresh feel.
Price: $8.99
Fragrance: Light, salon-inspired perfumed scent.
Pros: Light, pleasant fragrance, no white residue.
Cons: Doesn’t last all day on very oily scalps.
TRESemmé Volume Clean Dry Shampoo is great for light touch-ups. It’s an aerosol dry shampoo spray with a scent that’s not too overpowering and doesn’t leave your hair feeling gritty. This is a dry shampoo for fine hair that doesn’t weigh down strands, though its lighter formula means it may not fully tackle oily hair. We found that roots started to look shiny again by the end of the day. Still, it’s a good dry shampoo for anyone looking for a quick refresh and (we think) is one of the best smelling dry shampoos on this list. We gave this one 3 stars.
9. Dove Volume & Fullness Dry Shampoo
Best for: Quick oil absorption for fine hair needing light volume.
Price: $9.87
Fragrance: Light floral perfumed scent.
Pros: Budget-friendly, lightweight feel, works well on fine hair for a few hours.
Cons: Wet formula, not ideal for thick or very oily hair.
Dove Dry Shampoo – Volume & Fullness is a good drugstore dry shampoo for quick refreshes between washes. It’s especially effective for fine hair that loses volume fast. It goes on wet, dries quickly, and doesn’t leave a powder residue, which makes it great for touch-ups, though not ideal for very greasy hair or those needing intense oil control. If you’re looking for the best dry shampoo for fine oily hair on a budget, this one’s a solid contender. We gave it 3 stars overall.
10. Pantene Dry Shampoo Spray
Best for: Light, on-the-go touch-ups.
Price: $11.49
Fragrance: Strong perfume.
Pros: Travel-sized, affordable, refreshes hair scent.
Cons: Not ideal for heavy oil, fragrance is very strong.
If you’re always on the move, this dry shampoo spray from Pantene is compact, effective for light oil, and fits easily in your gym bag. It has a strong perfume scent, which may not be for everyone, but it does leave your hair smelling clean. While it works fine for touch-ups on fine hair, it’s not the best for very oily hair or for skipping multiple wash days. It’s a great pick for those looking for a fragrance-forward shampoo to refresh hair quickly in the middle of the day. The bottle is smaller than most too, which makes it easy to grab and go. We gave this one 3 stars.
Best Dry Shampoo by Hair Type
Best Dry Shampoo for Very Oily Hair
Batiste Original is still one of the best dry shampoos for oily hair, especially if your scalp gets greasy fast, or your hair is really thick. It delivers powerful oil absorption, giving your hair a freshly-washed feel. Just be prepared with a comb, as it leaves some serious white cast, so you may have to find methods to disguise it, or only use it on the under layers. That said, it’s one of the best when it comes to lifting oil and reviving flat, greasy strands. If you’re looking for a strong dry shampoo for very oily hair, this affordable pick definitely does the job. Both Batiste 24 hour Active, and Bed Head Dirty Secret are also good options for dirty hair.
Best Dry Shampoo for Fine Hair
Dove Dry Shampoo – Volume & Fullness is one of the best dry shampoos for fine hair thanks to its weightless feel. Fine hair often gets weighed down by heavy formulas, but this one delivers oil absorption without leaving buildup. It’s also gentle on the scalp and lightly scented. While it may not work as well for very oily hair or thick hair, it’s perfect for anyone who needs a light refresh between washes. We also really liked Marc Anthony Repair Bond & Resculplex Invisible Detox Dry Shampoo for fine hair.
Best Dry Shampoo for Dark Hair
Kristin Ess Style Reviving Brunette formula takes the top spot as the best dry shampoo for dark hair. Unlike most powder dry shampoos, this one is tinted with a neutral brown hue that blends into brunette shades. No more brushing out white residue or worrying about your roots looking gray.
Best Dry Shampoo for Sensitive Scalps
If your scalp reacts easily to fragrance or harsh ingredients, try Marc Anthony Repair Bond & Resculplex Invisible Detox Dry Shampoo. This dry shampoo contains no sulfates or parabens and uses a clear dry shampoo spray that doesn’t leave heavy buildup. It’s light enough for daily use and ideal for anyone seeking a healthy dry shampoo for color-treated or fragile scalps. While it’s not the strongest for oily hair, it’s a great dry shampoo for sensitive scalp types needing frequent refreshes. As sensitive scalp girlies, we didn’t personally encounter any irritation using this formula.
Best Smelling Dry Shampoo
Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Dry Shampoo wins for scent. With its toasted coconut, beachy fragrance, it’s easily the best smelling dry shampoo (we think!), especially for summer. Beyond its scent, it also works well on oily hair and curly hair, adding a nice lift. It can leave some white powder if not blended in well, but if scent matters most to you, this is your go-to. It’s also a great dry shampoo for greasy hair that needs a little texture boost. Our only real issue with this one is that it ran out too quickly. A second runner up based on fragrance alone is the Tresemme Volume dry shampoo.
Best Volumizing Dry Shampoo
Bed Head Dirty Secret Dry Shampoo is the best choice when volume is just as important as oil control. Designed for second or third-day hair, this heavy-duty formula adds grit and texture—ideal for fine or limp strands, or even thick hair. It absorbs oil quickly and makes styles last longer. If you’re wondering what is the best dry shampoo to extend a blowout and lift flat roots, this one easily earns the best volumizing dry shampoo title.
Quick Reference To Recap:
- Best dry shampoo for oily hair: Batiste Original Dry Shampoo
- Best dry shampoo for fine hair: Dove Dry Shampoo – Volume & Fullness
- Best dry shampoo for dark hair: Kristin Ess Style Reviving Brunette Dry Shampoo
- Best smelling dry shampoo: Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Dry Shampoo
- Best drugstore dry shampoo: TRESemmé Volume Clean Dry Shampoo
- Best unscented dry shampoo: Marc Anthony Repair Bond & Resculplex (lightest scent)
- Best volumizing dry shampoo: Bed Head Dirty Secret Dry Shampoo
Other Dry Shampoos Worth Considering
Our Runners-Up
A few dry shampoo brands didn’t make the top tier but are still worth a try. Pantene Dry Shampoo Spray is great for light touch-ups during the day and fits easily in your gym bag. Batiste 24hr Active Dry Shampoo is ideal if you work out regularly and need something long-lasting, though the white residue can be an issue for darker hair. These options didn’t take top honours, but they’re still good dry shampoos, especially if you’re experimenting to find the right formula for your hair type.
Best for Light Touch-Ups
Pantene Dry Shampoo Spray is ideal for light refreshes throughout the day—perfect to toss in your gym bag or use before a Zoom meeting. It’s a dry shampoo spray with a lightweight formula that doesn’t overdo it, making it one of the best drugstore dry shampoos for quick, casual fixes. The scent is strong and perfume-like, which some may love and others might find overpowering. While it’s not the best dry shampoo for really dirty hair, it works well if you’re just looking to freshen up mildly greasy roots without committing to a full wash.
Best for Rolling Out of Bed in a Rush
Marc Anthony Repair Bond & Resculplex Invisible Detox Dry Shampoo is a reliable go-to when you’re late, tired, or simply can’t be bothered with a full hair routine. With no residue or white cast, it’s a good dry shampoo for anyone rolling out of bed and needing to look instantly refreshed. The spray formula is light and gives hair a clean feel without weighing it down. While it may be as heavy duty as some of the powder sprays, it’s still one of the best dry shampoos for fast morning fixes and impromptu outings when time is short.
Best for Up-Dos That Require a Bit of Texture
Marc Anthony 2-in-1 Adjustable Dry Shampoo adds just the right amount of grit and texture to help hair hold styles like buns, ponytails, and braids. The adjustable nozzle lets you control the amount of product, making it a versatile pick whether you need a light mist or more serious oil control. This dry shampoo spray leaves no white residue and adds subtle volume, which is good for styling days when your hair is clean-ish but needs a little more hold. It’s also one of the best drugstore dry shampoos for managing flyaways while keeping hair feeling clean.
Best Dry Shampoo for Thick Hair
Bed Head Dirty Secret Dry Shampoo is a powerhouse for thick or textured hair that can handle a heavier formula. Designed for second or third-day oily hair, this dry shampoo spray adds volume, absorbs oil fast, and gives that slightly gritty texture that thicker hair often needs. If your strands soak up product like a sponge, this one won’t disappoint. While it’s too strong for finer hair types, it’s easily the best dry shampoo for thick hair, perfect for reviving styles and stretching time between washes without looking greasy.
Final Thoughts: Finding the Best Dry Shampoo for Your Hair
Whether you have fine, oily, dark, or curly hair, there’s a dry shampoo out there to match your needs. From powders to sprays, the best dry shampoos help refresh your look, extend your style, and save time between washes. We tested top drugstore brands to find effective options through wash days. Say goodbye to greasy roots and hello to your healthiest, freshest hair days yet.
Looking for more beauty guides like this one? Check out our in-depth guide on the perfect everything shower routine, and our step-by-step process on how to have a glow up that lasts.
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