The Wandering Walkers

Why Choose DIY Dry Shampoo Over Store-Bought?

It was time to refresh my Dry Shampoo so I thought it was the perfect time to share why I make my own and how it benefits my hair!

Dry shampoo is a lifesaver for those days when washing your hair just isn’t in the cards. For me, it is a necessity, especially if I have to be seen in public. But many commercial dry shampoos contain chemicals and artificial fragrances that can be harsh on your scalp and hair. Here’s why I chose making my own dry shampoo over a store bought one..

1. Natural Ingredients: DIY dry shampoos use natural ingredients that are gentle on your scalp and hair.
2. Cost-Effective: Most ingredients are inexpensive and often found in your pantry.
3. Customizable: You can tailor the recipe to match your hair color and type, avoiding any white residue that commercial dry shampoos might leave behind.
4. Eco-Friendly: By making your own, you reduce plastic waste from aerosol cans and packaging.

Washing Your Hair vs. Using Dry Shampoo

Benefits of Using Dry Shampoo

• Extends Time Between Washes: Dry shampoo absorbs excess oil, allowing you to go longer between washes.
• Saves Time: On busy mornings, dry shampoo can be a quick fix to refresh your hair.
• Adds Volume: Dry shampoo can add texture and volume to your hair, making styling easier.

Why You Should Only Wash Your Hair Once a Week

• Preserves Natural Oils: Frequent washing strips your hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and potential scalp issues.
• Healthier Scalp: Less frequent washing helps maintain a balanced scalp environment, reducing the risk of dandruff and irritation.
• Less Damage: Over-washing and excessive use of heat tools can weaken hair and cause breakage. Washing once a week can help keep your hair healthier and stronger.

My Journey to DIY Hair Products

As a hairstylist, I’m constantly surrounded by an array of hair products and treatments, many of which contain chemicals that can be harsh on the body. It became increasingly important for me to be more conscious about the chemicals I was using, not just in my salon, but in my daily life as well. Every day, our bodies are burdened with a huge chemical overload from various sources, and I wanted to find a way to minimize this.

This realization led me to start making my own hair products. By creating my own, I could control exactly what was going into them and ensure they were as natural and gentle as possible. This journey began with the creation of my own dry shampoo, a staple in my hair care routine. It was a small change, but it got me thinking.. what else could I get rid of in my bathroom cabinet that would be better for my body, the environment and my wallet? Now I make a handful of hair and skincare products as well as household goods for my family to keep the toxic chemicals at a minimum. Over the next few weeks I will be sharing more of the products I make that have had a positive impact on our lives and how you can make them too!

So, back to the dry shampoo… what are the ingredients and how the heck do I use it?

Ingredients and Their Benefits

1. Arrowroot Powder

• Absorbs Oil: Arrowroot powder effectively absorbs excess oil from the scalp, leaving your hair looking fresh and clean.

• Soothes Scalp: It has a soothing effect on the scalp and can help reduce irritation and inflammation.

• Lightweight: Arrowroot powder is lightweight and blends well with other ingredients, making it suitable for all hair types.

2. Charcoal Powder

• Detoxifies: Charcoal powder has detoxifying properties that help remove impurities and toxins from the scalp.

• Balances Oil Production: It helps balance the oil production in the scalp, reducing greasiness.

• Adds Volume: Charcoal powder can add volume to your hair by removing buildup and giving it a lift.

3. Baking Soda

• Cleanses: Baking soda is a natural cleanser that helps remove dirt and buildup from the scalp and hair.

• Neutralizes Odors: It effectively neutralizes odors, leaving your hair smelling fresh.

• Absorbs Oil: Baking soda absorbs excess oil, helping to extend the time between washes.

4. Cacao Powder

• Blends with Dark Hair: Cacao powder is perfect for dark hair as it blends seamlessly, avoiding the white residue that some dry shampoos leave.

• Adds Volume: It adds volume and texture to the hair, making it easier to style.

• Rich in Antioxidants: Cacao powder is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the hair and scalp from damage.

5. Bentonite Clay

• Detoxifies: Bentonite clay is known for its detoxifying properties, which help draw out impurities and toxins from the scalp.

• Balances Oil Production: It effectively absorbs excess oil and balances oil production in the scalp, making it ideal for oily hair.

• Nourishes the Scalp: Bentonite clay contains minerals that can help nourish and strengthen the hair and scalp, promoting overall hair health.

6. Cinnamon

• Stimulates Scalp: Cinnamon has stimulating properties that can help improve blood circulation to the scalp, promoting hair growth.

• Antimicrobial: It has antimicrobial properties that can help keep the scalp healthy and free from infections.

• Adds Warmth: Cinnamon adds a warm tint to the dry shampoo, making it suitable for red or auburn hair tones.

Some people also like to add essential oils to the mix but I find just using the cacao powder makes it smell lovely. It can be a little overpowering adding too many different smells so I just opt out of essential oils.

For the application, the easiest method I found was using a kabuki brush. I store my dry shampoo in a small glass container and keep a kabuki brush in my makeup area. When I need a refresh I just grab the brush dip it in the powder, tap it on the side to make sure there isn’t too much powder on the brush and then dust your roots with it! I like to pull it down a little bit into the hair and then use a Wet Brush to fully brush it through. This allows all the product to be distributed and not clump up in one spot. How easy is that? This recipe comes together in less then 5 minutes and will last you months!! If you try it out be sure to leave a comment and let me know what you think!

DIY Dry Shampoo Recipe

This DIY dry shampoo recipe is simple, effective, and customizable for any hair color. I have been using this for over a year and absolutely love that it gives my hair body and it smells divine.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup arrowroot powder
• 1/4 cup baking soda
• 1/4 cup bentonite clay
• For Dark Hair: 1/4 cup organic cacao powder (unsweentened)
• For Black Hair: 1-2 tablespoons charcoal powder
• For Red or Auburn Hair: 1-2 tablespoons cinnamon
• Optional: 5-10 drops of essential oil (like lavender or peppermint) for fragrance
• Glass Jar to store in

Instructions

1. Mix the Base Ingredients:

• For light hair: Combine arrowroot powder and baking soda in a small bowl.
• For dark hair: Combine arrowroot powder, baking soda, charcoal powder and cacao powder in a small bowl.
• I add in cacao and charcoal to mine to make a nice dark grey as my roots are salt and pepper. Feel free to play around with measurements to get your perfect combination.

2. Add Essential Oils (Optional):

If you want a pleasant scent, add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to the mixture. Stir well to distribute evenly.

3. Store the Mixture:

• Transfer the mixture to a clean, dry container with a lid. A small mason jar or an empty spice shaker works well.

4. Application:

• Use a Kabuki brush to apply the dry shampoo to your roots and oily areas. Be sure to massage it into your scalp.
• Allow it to sit for a few minutes to absorb the oil, then brush through your hair to distribute the powder evenly.

Final Thoughts

Making your own dry shampoo is not only easy and economical but also a healthier alternative to store-bought options. By incorporating natural ingredients and essential oils, you can keep your hair looking fresh and voluminous without the harsh chemicals. Plus, with the ability to customize the recipe to suit any hair color, you can ensure a flawless finish every time.

Remember, less is more when it comes to washing your hair. Embrace the benefits of natural oils and enjoy healthier, more manageable hair by washing just once a week and using your DIY dry shampoo in between. Happy hair days ahead!