ry shampoo can be a lifesaver. The right product can extend your blowout, freshen up a sweaty mane after a gym session, or just help you cut down on wash days. The problem is that most conventional dry shampoos expose you to harmful ingredients to get those results.
However, plenty of brands are proving that this need not be the case. In this article, we’ll break down exactly why non-toxic dry shampoos are better for you and the environment, how to shop for them, and how best to judge whether dry shampoo is eco-friendly or not. We also have a list of 10 of the best non-toxic and eco-friendly dry shampoos that are easy to use and will revive even the most exhausted hair.
Good hair days should be the norm, not the exception, and you shouldn’t have to compromise on your health or sustainability to have them.
Table of Contents
What is non-toxic dry shampoo?
There is no universal definition for non-toxic dry shampoo but here’s how we like to define it: any formula that makes an effort to be free of harmful chemicals and uses naturally derived ingredients where possible.
We also believe that transparency is important. Non-toxic dry shampoos should be open about their ingredients and sourcing. Taking a stand against the damaging practices of traditional cosmetics isn’t just about using better ingredients, but empowering customers to make more informed choices.
Are non-toxic and eco-friendly dry shampoos as effective as traditional formulas?
The biggest difference between traditional formulas compared to non-toxic and eco-friendly dry shampoos is that the latter won’t come in an aerosol. This means that the application will generally come in a powder form which sometimes takes longer to work through the hair and see results from. It won’t have that instant oil-absorbing effect you see from aerosols which can be disappointing, but a quick brush through or blow dry can help get you the same (if not better) effect.
3 Reasons you should switch to a non-toxic dry shampoo
Great hair, boosted well-being, and better environmental practices – these are just some of the benefits of switching to non-toxic, safe dry shampoo. Let’s break it down:
1. Scalp and hair health
Traditional dry shampoo formulas can be a nightmare for your scalp, especially if it’s sensitive. Synthetic fragrances, alcohol, sulfates, and other common ingredients can seriously irritate your scalp and affect your hair’s health in the process. Not to mention, the high alcohol content in many aerosol dry shampoos can also exacerbate hair dryness and lead to breakage. Non-toxic dry shampoos, on the other hand, skip these harmful ingredients for a gentler, more natural approach.
As you’ll see later in this article, many clean dry shampoo brands even incorporate essential oils in their formulas such as rosemary which can help stimulate the scalp for increased hair growth. Switching to a non-toxic dry shampoo won’t just mean fewer irritants but can help improve how your scalp feels, and your hair looks.
2. General wellbeing
It’s easy to forget that what we spray onto our hair can impact our overall health, but the scalp, like all of our skin, can absorb chemicals. Aerosol dry shampoos can even affect our air quality.
That’s particularly worrying when we consider that common ingredients in traditional dry shampoos are known carcinogens, skin irritants, and asthma triggers. Choosing a clean dry shampoo means less exposure to harmful chemicals, lowered risk of associated health issues, and ultimately, a hair routine that’s safer for your wellbeing.
3. The environmental impact
Many of the ingredients that non-toxic shampoos skip aren’t just bad for human health, but bad for the planet as well. Talc is a classic example. This common dry shampoo ingredient has been shown to be damaging to lung and respiratory health and was recently classified as “probably carcinogenic” by The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), an offshoot of the WHO.
Alongside the health risks associated with talc, mining operations have been responsible for major carbon emissions, the destruction of natural habitats, and pollution issues. This is a common pattern you’ll see with traditional dry shampoo ingredients. Not only are they often risky for your health, but they’re ecologically damaging too. It’s why non-toxic formulas that stick with safer, more sustainably sourced ingredients are beneficial for the planet’s health as well as your own.
Chemicals non-toxic dry shampoos should not contain
Here are some of the main chemicals to avoid when shopping for non-toxic dry shampoos and why they’re not great for you:
- Talc: We’ve already touched on the negative health and environmental risks associated with this ingredient but it’s worth reiterating that even though talc can help absorb oil in your hair, there are other ingredients that work better without the potential harm involved.
- VOCs: Most aerosol dry shampoos contain chemicals known as “propellants” which fall under the umbrella of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). Butane, propane, formaldehyde, and isobutane are the most common VOCs in dry shampoo formulas, but what’s so bad about them? Well, they make up about 80 to 90% of most traditional dry shampoo formulas even though they're a well-established air pollutant, may be carcinogenic, and run the risk of causing asthma and allergic reactions. VOCs are some of the most important chemicals to avoid in non-toxic dry shampoos for these reasons.
- Alcohol: Alcohol and its related ingredients such as ethanol and ethyl alcohol are used as carriers in dry shampoo formulas and to help reduce oil but the problem is that they’re often too drying. This can lead to hair breakage and scalp irritation, especially if you have existing skin conditions.
- Benzene: This controversial ingredient is the reason multiple dry shampoos were recalled in 2022. According to the CDC, long-term exposure to high levels of benzene can lead to cancer. It can be argued that a dry shampoo wouldn’t expose you to enough benzene for it to be harmful but considering you’re spraying it so close to your face, often in enclosed bathrooms, it doesn’t seem like a risk worth taking. One study found that 70% of dry shampoos on the market had benzene in them, yet it has no practical use for your hair and instead is the result of bad refinement processes. It’s a compound that likes to attach to butane, a common VOC in dry shampoos, and reaffirms why we should be avoiding VOCs in the first place.
- Synthetic Fragrances: These tend to be irritating on the scalp and unfortunately, because the FDA doesn’t require cosmetic brands to disclose what’s in their proprietary fragrances, can often hide unwanted chemicals.
What makes dry shampoo eco-friendly?
Using dry shampoo is often recommended as a great sustainability effort as it can reduce how often you need to wash it, and how much water you use as a result. That said, the waste and pollution of many dry shampoos tend to counteract these efforts unless they've made an effort to make the product more eco-friendly. Here’s what we look at when deciding whether a dry shampoo is eco-friendly:
The formula
- Transparent ingredient lists.
- Organic ingredients as this means that they were grown in a more water-conscious manner with fewer agrochemicals.
- Free of environmentally harmful ingredients such as VOCs and talc. If you see that a product is EWG-verified, you can rest assured it meets these standards.
- With the above in mind, non-aerosol dry shampoos are always best when shopping for more environmentally friendly dry shampoos.
- Vegan and cruelty-free certifications because animals are as important to protect as our air quality.
Packaging and shipping
- Recycled, recyclable, plastic-free, or refillable packaging to help reduce the amount of waste created.
- Low carbon or carbon neutral shipping.
The brand’s commitments and certifications
- Transparent manufacturing practices that include sustainability efforts such as water-reduction and renewable energy initiatives.
- Donations to environmental causes such as reforestation efforts.
- Audited sustainability efforts. For example, being a certified B Corp. or Fair Trade.
A checklist for when you shop non-toxic and eco-friendly dry shampoos
To make things as easy as possible, we’ve broken down the main things to look out for when shopping for eco-friendly and non-toxic dry shampoos into quick checklists that you can refer to at any time. For now, very few dry shampoos will meet all these criteria but sticking to ones that at least fulfill most of them will already reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals and any negative environmental impact.
Non-toxic dry shampoo checklist
This list is simply all the ingredients best to avoid. We’ve included those already mentioned, plus a few extra for good measure:
- Benzene.
- Talc.
- Synthetic fragrances.
- Alcohol (or ethyl alcohol).
- VOCs such as propane, butane, formaldehyde, and isobutane.
- Phthalates.
- Sulfates.
- Silicon.
- Cetrimonium chloride
Eco-friendly shampoo checklist
- Non-toxic ingredients (refer to the above).
- Non-aerosol formula.
- Organic ingredients where possible.
- Recycled and/or recyclable packaging.
- Plastic-packaging.
- Vegan and cruelty-free.
- Certified for their sustainability efforts such as being a certified B Corp. or EWG verified.
Our criteria for non-toxic and eco-friendly dry shampoos
Here’s a quick summary of the criteria we use when recommending non-toxic and eco-friendly dry shampoo:
- Non-aerosol formula.
- A transparent approach to ingredients and why they’re in the product.
- The brand makes an effort to leave out harmful ingredients such as talc and parabens.
- There are added environmental benefits such as being vegan or using recyclable packaging.There are either separate options for different hair colors or the product is designed to work on all without leaving visible residue.
- The dry shampoo reduces oil and has a positive impact on hair and scalp health.
Efficacy, eco-friendliness, and non-toxic ingredients – that’s what we’re looking at every time we consider a non-toxic, eco-friendly dry shampoo to recommend to you.
10 Of our favorite non-toxic and eco-friendly dry shampoos
Consider this the ultimate guide to non-aerosol, non-toxic, eco-friendly, and benzene-free dry shampoos:
1. Captain Blankenship
This talc-free and benzene-free dry shampoo uses naturally derived ingredients such as seaweed moss powder to absorb oils and rose geranium to balance scalp PH. It also includes organic tapioca and brown rice powder to give the hair volume without over-drying.
Why People Love It: It works on all hair colors and is very effective at absorbing excess oil while still leaving hair feeling soft.
Application Method: Powder with sifter.
Benefits: Boosts volume, absorbs oil, balances scalp PH, and regulates sebum production.
Best For: All hair colors and types.
Scent: Fresh, wild rose coastal scent featuring Palma Rosa.
Sustainability Stats:
- Certified B Corp.
- 1% for the planet.
- Vegan and cruelty-free.
- Aluminum recyclable packaging.
- Certified Made Safe
- Non-toxic formula free of talc, benzene, etc.
- Features organic ingredients.
2. Beauty By Earth
Their Volume Powder is one of the best non-toxic dry shampoos out there that also happens to be organic. It comes in a dark and light version and uses corn starch, baking soda, kaolin clay, and lavender. The result? A formula that is as nourishing as it is refreshing.
Why People Love It: The product lasts for ages and can be applied with minimal mess. It’s also great for adding volume back to the hair.
Benefits: Absorbs oil, refreshes hair, and boosts volume.
Best For: All hair colors and types.
Application Method: Powder through a small hole with a twist cap.
Scent: Lavender.
Sustainability Stats:
- USDA-certified organic.
- Natural, non-toxic formula.
3. Briogeo
This brand has won numerous awards for their innovative hair care so it’s no wonder that their Scalp Revival dry shampoo is so popular. The product uses charcoal, witch hazel, and biotin to not only ensure that your hair feels cleaner between wash days, but that your scalp health is improved in the process.
Why People Love It: The ultrafine powder feels weightless in the hair and is completely invisible on all hair colors. It also noticeably improves volume.
Benefits: Balances scalp’s oil production, absorbs excess oil, provides volume, and makes hair feel cleaner.
Best For: All hair types and textures.
Application Method: Powder in a pump bottle.
Scent: Vanilla and mint.
Sustainability Stats:
- Vegan and cruelty-free.
- 99% naturally derived, non-toxic formula.
4. Primally Pure
Natural dry shampoo has never been chicer. Primally Pure makes a duo for both light and dark hair that looks great on your shelf and uses a blend of essential oils, natural clays, and arrowroot powder to freshen your hair, and even stimulate growth.
Why People Love It: A little goes a long way with this product so a bottle tends to last ages. It also comes in a light and dark variation and is very effective at reducing how often you need to wash your hair.
Benefits: Absorbs moisture, soothes the scalp, cleanses the hair, helps stimulate hair growth, and adds texture and volume.
Best For: All hair colors and types.
Application Method: Powder shaken through a sieve.
Scent: Grapefruit.
Sustainability Stats:
- Natural, non-toxic formula featuring sustainably sourced ingredients.
- Runs a recycling initiative.
5. Hair Dance
This indie, woman-owned brand has some of the cleanest dry shampoo options out there but their volumizing version is our favorite.
Why People Love It: People with oily hair tend to get the most out of this product but one of its best features has to be the all-natural lavender scent. It makes your hair smell great and provides a lovely feeling of calm too.
Benefits: Absorbs oil and residue, refreshes hair, adds volume, and has aromatherapy benefits too.
Best For: All hair colors and types.
Application Method: Powder in a pump bottle.
Scent: Lavender.
Sustainability Stats:
- Non-toxic formula free of talc, benzene, synthetic fragrance, etc.
- Refillable packaging.
- Cruelty-free.
6. Billie
Clean ingredient dry shampoo often gets a bad rap for being chalky but Billie’s Floof Dry Shampoo is proving all the haters wrong. This super-fine formula completely disappears into your roots as you work it in.
Why People Love It: It comes in a light and dark version so that no matter your hair color, you can rest assured there won’t be residue. The packaging is also seriously cute and easy to use.
Benefits: Creates volume, traps grease to make the scalp feel cleaner, soaks up dirt and impurities, and makes hair appear smoother.
Best For: All hair colors and types.
Application Method: Powder through a very precise pinhole.
Scent: Fresh, clean fragrance.
Sustainability Stats:
- Non-toxic formula free of parabens, sulfates, etc.
- Vegan.
- Partners with various non-profits.
7. Act + Acre
A plant-based dry shampoo without Benzene? Act + Acre has managed to tick so many of our non-toxic criteria with their Fulvic Acid Volumizing Dry Shampoo. The formula includes over 65 minerals that are meant to support the scalp microbiome so that you have less oil and itchiness between wash days.
Why People Love It: It’s completely undetectable on all hair types and colors and manages to absorb odors well despite not having a fragrance.
Benefits: Adds volume, absorbs excess oil, neutralizes odor, and supports the scalp microbiome to reduce any itchiness.
Best For: All hair colors, types, and textures.
Application Method: Powder in a pump bottle.
Scent: Fragrance-free.
Sustainability Stats:
- Natural, plant-based non-toxic formula.
- Renewable energy initiatives.
- Recyclable packaging.
8. The Rootist
This translucent, talc-free dry shampoo powder absorbs both oil and sweat without leaving any residue. It also uses a proprietary Rootbiomic™ Ferment Powder that helps strengthen your scalp, roots, and hair.
Why People Love It: The unique brush applicator on this makes it particularly great for gym goers and anyone on the move.
Benefits: Absorbs oil and sweat, provides vitamins to the scallop and hair, and balances scalp hydration.
Best For: All hair colors and types, but especially sweaty hair.
Application Method: A powder that’s distributed through a built-in fluffy brush for an easy, mess-free application.
Scent: Naturally fragranced with spearmint, peppermint, rosemary, and chamomile essential oils.
Sustainability Stats:
- Refillable and recyclable packaging.
- Non-toxic formula free of talc, benzene, synthetic fragrance, etc.
9. Verb
This brand’ makes a vegan dry shampoo has been named one of the best by Allure thanks to its ability to remove oil, refresh, and add volume.
Why People Love It: The pump action bottle is particularly easy to use, and the product doesn’t leave any visible residue on the hair, even with dark hair.
Benefits: Provides light volume, reduces oil, and refreshes hair.
Best For: All hair types and textures.
Application Method: Pump powder bottle.
Scent: Floral.
Sustainability Stats:
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Non-toxic formula free of sulfates, parabens, benzene, etc.
10. Prose
Every purchase from Prose starts with an in-depth quiz on your hair type and needs. The brand then makes a completely personalized, non-toxic dry shampoo formula to suit that. Whether it’s volume or a scalp-soothing moment you’re after, they’ve got you sorted.
Why People Love It: As this review from InStyle noted, one of the best parts about Prose’s customizable approach is that you can ask for dye-free, fragrance-free, and vegan formulas. This is fantastic for people with sustainability in mind or with sensitive skin.
Benefits: Customizable to your needs but can include soothing the scalp, detoxifying, and adding volume.
Best For: All hair colors and types.
Application Method: Powder in a pump action bottle.
Scent: Fragrance-free.
Sustainability Stats:
- Non-toxic formula free of alcohol, fragrance, etc.
- Vegan and cruelty-free.
- Certified B Corp.
- Certified Climate Neutral.
Where else can you buy non-toxic and eco-friendly dry shampoo?
The great thing about the rise in clean beauty awareness is that you can now buy non-toxic and eco-friendly dry shampoo pretty much anywhere. All the ones we’ll include in this article are available online, with many being easy to grab from Amazon, Walmart, or your usual beauty stores like Sephora.
Putting the goodness back in good hair days
Though traditional dry shampoos have been plagued with recalls and continue to use potential carcinogens in their formulas, plenty of brands are proving that you don’t need any of those nasty ingredients to get your hair looking good.
In fact, better ingredients tend to do better for your hair and scalp health. Switching to non-toxic and eco-friendly dry shampoos also means that you get to reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals and take care of the planet while doing so. Next time you’re topping up on dry shampoo, consider a clean, non-aerosol version. Your hair and the planet will both be happier for it.
FAQs
What dry shampoos are safe to use?
Dry shampoos that are safe to use include ones from Verb, Billie, and Briogeo. They are all non-aerosol and non-toxic formulas.
Is there a safe alternative to dry shampoo?
Yes, there is a safe alternative to dry shampoo. You can either stick with non-toxic, powder products that brands such as The Rootist and Primally Pure offer or use at-home ingredients such as apple cider vinegar, witch hazel, baking soda, and cornstarch to revive your hair.
How to stop greasy hair without dry shampoo?
Stop greasy hair without dry shampoo by making sure to brush your hair so that the natural oils are distributed better. You can also use at-home remedies like apple cider vinegar rinses.
How to fix greasy bangs without dry shampoo?
Blotting papers are a great way to fix greasy bangs without dry shampoo but you can also rinse your bangs with apple cider vinegar. Sometimes even a quick brush and blow dry will make them look less greasy.
Does all batiste have benzene?
No, not all Batiste has benzene in it. While many did have this ingredient detected, the 2024 batches of Batiste dry shampoo were reported free of benzene. For extra safety, however, we will always recommend steering clear of aerosol dry shampoos if you want to avoid benzene.
