Dry shampoo has become a must-have in most people’s beauty routines. Whether you’re fresh out of the shower and in need of a quick pick-me-up, or you’re simply not in the mood to wash your hair, dry shampoo is a lifesaver. But if you’re like me, you might have started to wonder: What exactly is in that can? Many store-bought dry shampoos are filled with chemicals, synthetic fragrances, and questionable ingredients that can do more harm than good in the long run. That’s where homemade dry shampoo comes in—simple, natural, and effective.

Here at The Simple Pursuit, we’re all about getting back to basics and embracing healthy, organic, and non-toxic solutions for everything from cleaning products to beauty routines. If you’re looking for a way to refresh your hair without the chemicals and synthetic ingredients, this homemade dry shampoo recipe is for you.

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Why You Should Make Your Own Dry Shampoo

First things first, why should you bother making your own dry shampoo? There are a few key reasons that will make you want to ditch the store-bought stuff for good.

No Toxic Chemicals
Many commercial dry shampoos are packed with ingredients like sulfates, parabens, and artificial fragrances—none of which do your hair (or your body) any favors. By making your own, you’re able to control exactly what goes into it, ensuring your scalp stays healthy and your hair stays happy.

Customizable for Your Hair Type
Another great thing about homemade dry shampoo is that you can customize it to fit your unique hair needs. Whether you’re dealing with oily roots, dry ends, or want to add a little extra volume, it’s all in your hands. With just a few tweaks, you can make it perfect for your hair type.

Eco-Friendly and Cost-Effective
Store-bought dry shampoos often come in plastic cans or bottles that end up in the trash, adding to environmental waste. Making your own at home means you can use a reusable container, cutting down on plastic. Plus, this recipe is super affordable—no need to splurge on fancy products. You’ll save money, and your hair will thank you.

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The Ingredients You’ll Need

The best part about homemade dry shampoo is that you probably already have most of the ingredients at home. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Arrowroot Powder or Cornstarch – These are the magic ingredients that help absorb oil and moisture from your scalp. Arrowroot powder is the gentler option, especially if you have sensitive skin, but cornstarch works just as well.
• Cocoa Powder (Optional) – If you have darker hair, adding cocoa powder can help the dry shampoo blend in more naturally without leaving a chalky residue. Just be cautious with the amount—it doesn’t take much!
• Baking Soda (Optional) – If you tend to get oily hair fast, adding a bit of baking soda will give your dry shampoo extra oil-absorbing power. Just don’t go overboard—too much baking soda can dry out your scalp.
• Essential Oils – Essential oils aren’t just for fragrance; they also have benefits for your scalp and hair. Lavender, rosemary, tea tree, or peppermint oils are all great options that smell amazing and offer soothing, refreshing, and stimulating effects.

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The Simple Recipe: How to Make Your Own Dry Shampoo

Ready to make your own dry shampoo? Here’s a super easy recipe to follow:

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons of arrowroot powder (or cornstarch)
• 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder (for dark hair)
• A few drops of essential oils (I love lavender and rosemary)
• A small jar or container for storing your dry shampoo

Instructions:

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients
   Start by mixing the arrowroot powder (or cornstarch) and cocoa powder (if using) together in a small bowl. You can adjust the amounts depending on how much dry shampoo you want to make, but this ratio works well for most people.
2. Add the Essential Oils
   Add a few drops of your chosen essential oils. I typically use 5-10 drops. If you’re using rosemary or peppermint, those will give your hair a nice, refreshing scent, while lavender is more calming and gentle.
3. Store It
   Once everything is mixed together, transfer it to a small jar or container with a tight-fitting lid. You can use an old spice jar or any container that’s easy to shake and sprinkle from. The key is making sure it’s sealed tightly to keep the ingredients fresh.
4. Use and Enjoy
   When you’re ready to use your dry shampoo, simply shake a little onto your roots. If you want more control over application, use a makeup brush to lightly apply the powder. Let it sit for a minute or two to absorb any oils, then massage it in with your fingers. Comb through to remove any excess powder, and you’re good to go!

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A Few Tips for the Best Results

1. Don’t Overdo It
   A little goes a long way. When applying dry shampoo, start with a small amount and build up as needed. Over-applying can leave your hair looking powdery, which is something we want to avoid!
2. Brush It In
   For an even distribution, use a clean makeup brush to gently apply the powder to your roots. This way, you won’t end up with clumps of product in one spot.
3. Be Patient
   Let the dry shampoo sit for a few minutes to really soak up the oils before massaging it in. Rushing this step won’t allow the powder to do its job properly.
4. Store in a Cool, Dry Place
   Keep your dry shampoo in a cool, dry spot, away from direct sunlight. You want the ingredients to stay fresh and last for as long as possible.

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Customize Your Dry Shampoo for Your Hair Type

One of the best things about making your own dry shampoo is the ability to tweak it to your hair’s specific needs. Here are a few ways you can modify the recipe:

For Oily Hair
If you have very oily hair, try adding a little baking soda to the mix. Start with 1/2 teaspoon and see how it works. Baking soda has excellent oil-absorbing properties, so it’ll help keep your scalp feeling fresh for longer. Just don’t overdo it, or it could dry out your scalp.

For Dark Hair
If you have dark hair and want to avoid white residue, add some cocoa powder to your dry shampoo. Start with 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder and adjust based on your hair color. You can also try adding activated charcoal for an even deeper shade.

For Sensitive Scalp
If you have a sensitive scalp, skip the baking soda and stick to just the arrowroot powder. You can also add a few drops of chamomile essential oil, which is soothing and gentle on the skin.

For Light Hair
For lighter hair, you don’t need cocoa powder. You can stick with just arrowroot powder, and if you like, you can add a few drops of chamomile oil to give your hair a little brightening boost.

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Why This Works (and How You’ll Feel the Difference)

You might be wondering: Does it actually work? Short answer: Yes! This homemade dry shampoo not only keeps your hair feeling clean and fresh between washes, but it also helps keep your scalp healthy by avoiding harsh chemicals and synthetic ingredients.

Because you’re using natural, simple ingredients, your hair won’t feel weighed down or greasy after application—just soft, refreshed, and full of volume. Plus, the essential oils you add can help with everything from soothing an itchy scalp to promoting healthy hair growth.

It’s a great way to give your hair a little break from shampooing, and you won’t have to worry about any of the nasty ingredients that might be hiding in store-bought products.

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Now It’s Your Turn!
Have you tried making your own dry shampoo before? What are your favorite ingredients? Let me know in the comments! I’d love to hear how this recipe works for you and if you’ve come up with any fun variations of your own. And if you’re looking for more simple, natural beauty tips, be sure to check out the other posts here at The Simple Pursuit.