Dry shampoo is a product sold in beauty supply stores and some pharmacies. Like conventional shampoo, it is used to clean hair. However, dry shampoo does not depend on the addition of water for use. Most dry shampoos contain powders, such as cornstarch or talc, and cleanse by absorbing excess oil from the hair. Some dry shampoos are actually liquid; however, they do not require water to apply or to rinse. Additional ingredients of both types of shampoos typically include herbs or fragrance. Dry shampoo is typically applied to the hair and scalp by spraying, by hand, or both. After application, the hair is combed or brushed, removing excess powder and leaving it refreshed.
During Illness
Dry shampoo is an ideal solution for some people who are ill and unable to bathe or shower, such as hospitalized patients who must receive sponge baths while in bed. Unless contraindicated, dry shampoo provides a relatively easy way to cleanse the hair with little disruption to the patient.
The Elderly
Dry shampoo is a wise alternative for some older individuals who are at risk for accidents and injury while performing routine tasks such as showering and/or bathing. The risks are greater if an elderly person lives alone and does not receive assistance. Sponge baths at the sink are a somewhat less precarious endeavor, but cleaning the hair is challenging without a bath or shower. Dry shampoo affords the elderly a chance to safely and effectively clean their hair.
Camping
Dry shampoo is the perfect compromise when camping, which often presents a challenge to staying fresh and clean. In any situation where travel and adventure take a person away from the opportunity to bathe or to appropriately rinse off residue from conventional hair products, dry shampoo is a practical alternative. Most dry shampoo products are relatively inexpensive and portable. It's also a good idea to keep a bottle of dry shampoo on hand at home for a situation that causes an interruption in water.
On-the-Go
Whether you need to refresh during a long flight, or you don't have time to wash and dry before work, having access to dry shampoo means not sacrificing cleanliness. Dry shampoo is also a relatively natural way to keep hair from appearing too oily while sparing it the stress of exposure to the alcohol and drying chemicals in many hair products. According to "ThirstyRoots," specialists in African-American hair, dry shampoo is an essential tool for cleaning braided hairstyles, which are often maintained for weeks at a time.
Considerations
Although dry shampoo is effective in specific situations, such as those described above, it's not recommended to replace conventional hair shampoo and conditioner that use water, as these products are more effective at getting the hair clean. However, in a pinch, most dry shampoos do a good job ridding hair of oily residue, leaving it in better condition than skipping a shower.
