So, How Exactly Do You Use Dry Shampoo on Textured Hair? (2025)

If you have curly or coily hair, then you’ll be familiar with wash day rituals. It may take a fair amount of time to get your curls and coils looking the way you want them to after washing, drying, and styling. So, you can be forgiven for wanting a break from time to time, and dry shampoo could be the solution you didn’t know you needed. The haircare staple became popular for its ability to minimize the need for a full wash day routine, but is it actually suitable for curly and coily hair types? We’ve asked hairstylists Stanley Nolan and Sophia Emmanuel to tell us everything we need to know about how to use dry shampoo if you have textured hair. Keep reading to learn our findings.

What Is Dry Shampoo?

Dry shampoo is a water-based product that is used to refresh hair. Emmanuel tells Byrdie that it can “absorb sebum, odors, and sweat from your scalp and hair.” It is usually used temporarily in between washes to refresh the hair and scalp. “Dry shampoo doesn’t do the same job as a regular shampoo, but it can mask any signs of buildup, which can prolong your hairstyle in the process,” she adds. Dry shampoo is ideal for moments when you don’t have the time to wash your hair or you’d prefer to stretch out good hair days. “It’s the perfect quick fix, and it comes in many forms (sprays, powders, and foams). Any of these will leave hair looking and feeling fresh all day long,” says Nolan.

Can I Use Dry Shampoo If I Have Curly or Coily Hair?

Dry shampoo can be used on curly and coily hair types. In fact, it can be used by all hair types and textures. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind before and after using the product. “If you use styling products like creams, gels, custards, or foams, then the dry shampoo will sit on your hair and cause a white, powdery cast to appear,” explains Emmanuel. If you use heavier styling products and you want to use a dry shampoo, you’ll need to apply it directly near the scalp to ensure that it doesn’t get onto other areas of your hair.

“If you use dry shampoo between wash days, the best thing you can do is use lightweight styling products,” Emmanuel explains. Being left with a white cast on hair is a common concern for most dry shampoo users, and avoiding this lies in your application method. “I always recommend applying dry shampoo lightly and focusing on the roots to avoid any buildup,” Nolan explains.

What Is the Best Type of Dry Shampoo for Curly and Coily Hair?

It's no secret that there are hundreds of dry shampoos to choose from on the market. Below, find the three most important factors to consider when shopping for the best formula for curly hair, according to our experts.

• Look for a lightweight formula: Nolan recommends using a lightweight dry shampoo so as not to weigh curls and coils down. “I would recommend using a texturizing dry shampoo for more added volume to your textured hair. Look for something light, effective, and that will keep your curls looking fresh,” she explains.
• Application matters: Emmanuel recommends shampoos that come in an aerosol can, as they can be easily sprayed directly near the scalp. “The most important thing to consider when searching for the right dry shampoo is how easy it is to apply," she says.
• Read the ingredient list: "You should also look for ingredients that are renowned for refreshing the scalp, such as rice starch, tapioca starch, corn starch, kaolin clay, and silica,” explains Emmanuel. Depending on your hair’s needs, you might also want to consider options that have been formulated with soothing ingredients such as lavender, aloe, chamomile extract, or witch hazel.

How to Maximize the Benefits

There are a few things you can do to maximize the benefits of dry shampoo. First of all, how you apply dry shampoo is important. “Dry shampoo should always be applied directly near your scalp and in sections, to absorb oil and sweat," says Emmanuel. "To remove any excess product, use a blow dryer on a cool setting and let the dry shampoo sit on your hair for one to two minutes to allow the ingredients to absorb oil and sweat before touching your hair."

It’s important to note that you cannot maximize the benefits of dry shampoo by overusing it. Using it too much can cause even more buildup on your hair and scalp, meaning wash day may come sooner rather than later. The purpose of dry shampoo is to keep your hair refreshed in between wash days, so it should be used whenever your hair needs a little pick-me-up. If you want to apply dry shampoo in a particular section of your hair, then that can also work. Nolan recommends paying attention to greasy areas. Her suggestion? “After the dry shampoo has been applied, let it sit for a few minutes, then massage or brush through to distribute it evenly. If you want even more volume, flip your hair upside down and shake it out."

The Final Takeaway

Dry shampoo is a great option for anyone who wants to keep their hair fresh in between washes. While it is suitable for all hair types, there are a few important factors that those with curly and coily hair will need to consider. For example, searching for options that have been formulated with your hair type in mind, as well as perfecting your application method.

The process of applying dry shampoo is pretty straightforward, but giving the product time to settle and work its magic on your hair is a must if you want to minimize the risk of developing a white cast or buildup. One of the key things to consider if you are thinking about using a dry shampoo as part of your hair care routine is the type of hair products you are using. Heavier products can cause the dry shampoo to sit on your hair, which you don’t want, so always use lightweight products for a seamless application and finish.