If you have color-treated hair, look to this Moroccan Oil Dry Shampoo in Dark Tones. (The brand also carries a Light Tones version if you’re blonde). It not only helps absorb excess oil and grease but also blends with your dye job, whether you have colored roots, darker hair, or a color gloss treatment. It protects against UV damage and features argan oil to ensure hair feels and looks soft and silky. We like that the scent is long-lasting and the color is, too—you won’t need touch-ups. In fact,it adds vibrance to your color and can even help fill in sparse areas where hair might be thinning.
Glamour’s Kilkeary says:
“This dark hair dry shampoo did just the trick—it helped keep my hair grease-free and matte, and kept my color looking strong. I also particularly like to use it in areas that my hair is thinning around my crown and behind my ears to help fill in sparse spots and keep extra oil away.”—A.M.K
- Key Ingredients: Rice starch, argan oil
- Size: 5.4 fl oz.
- 12 Hour Grease-test: Passed
Frequently asked questions
Excess sebum production is the main culprit. “Genetics, over-washing, or touching your hair too much can all be causes of greasy hair,” Cavalcante adds. Using heavy products at the roots, like leave-in conditioners, texturizing sprays, or hair masks, can also make it worse.
Is dry shampoo ok for oily hair?
Yes. Cavalcante recommends using it between washes rather than as a full replacement for shampooing—it keeps hair fresh, grease-free, and resilient without disrupting the scalp’s natural balance. It’s also a strong pick for thin hair too, since it helps boost volume.
What ingredients should you look for when shopping for a dry shampoo for oily hair?
Oil-absorbing ingredients are the priority. “Look for rice starch or silica, and charcoal is also great if your scalp tends to get congested,” says Cavalcante. These ingredients help absorb oil without leaving a heavy residue behind.
When should you not use dry shampoo?
If you’re experiencing irritation, itch, or lots of buildup, it’s better to skip dry shampoo and wash your hair properly to fully cleanse the scalp, says celebrity hairstylist Alex Pardoe. “It’s also not a substitute for washing—if your hair feels coated or heavy, it’s time for a proper cleanse,” she says.
Can dry shampoo cause build-up or excess oil?
Yes, if overused. Dry shampoo can clog the scalp, so it’s important to use it in moderation. Cavalcante recommends actually applying it before your hair gets oily for best results. “Focus on the roots, let it sit for a minute, then brush it through so it blends naturally,” he says.
We tested dry shampoos for oily hair by evaluating ingredients, texture/format and efficacy. The best ones contained rice starch, charcoal and other oil-absorbing ingredients that didn’t weigh down hair or leave behind a white residue. They came in lightweight spray or powder forms and didn’t leave behind a massive white cast after application. The best ones were successful in keeping our hair matte, non-greasy and slick-free.
