Are you using dry shampoo the right way? We asked a trichologist.

If you’re looking for a way to extend your hairstyle the day before wash day, sometimes a quick spray of dry shampoo is all you need to ditch greasy hair.

Whether you’re running late to work or just got back from the gym, the application of dry shampoo can certainly make your hair appear cleaner and fresher, but are you applying dry shampoo the right way? USA TODAY asked a trichologist, who specializes in scalp treatments, to answer some questions and debunk misconceptions around how we should all be using dry shampoo. We’ll also take a look at two common types of dry shampoos, aerosols and powders, to break down which one is right for you. 

What is the proper way to apply dry shampoo?

If you’re using an aerosol, firstly, shake the can well and hold it approximately six inches away from your scalp, explains Taylor Rose, a certified trichologist based in Los Angeles. Then, “spray into the roots of dry hair, parting your hair in sections to ensure you cover your entire scalp evenly.” After the product has set into your hair, use your fingertips to massage it gently into your scalp, she suggests.

Powder-based dry shampoos follow similar rules. While the exact application instructions of powder-based products will vary, generally speaking, “tap a small amount of powder either directly onto your roots or into your hands,” she says. “Rub the powder between your fingertips and massage into your scalp. Brush hair and you're done!”

When should I apply dry shampoo?

While you might think you should hold off on applying dry shampoo until your hair is extremely oily, don’t wait. Rose says you’ll see the best results if you use it before your scalp accumulates excess oil and dirt. Whether you're using sprays or powders, try not to use dry shampoo more than twice a week, and minimize how much product you're applying to your hair. Using dry shampoo too much or too often may lead to product buildup, which leaves you at a greater risk of cultivating the perfect environment for an unhealthy scalp, she says. 

Another common misconception about dry shampoo is that it cleans your hair the same way a liquid shampoo does — this is untrue, and you should not rely on dry shampoo as a substitute for hair washing, according to WebMD. “Dry shampoo can make hair smell and appear cleaner, but it is not actually cleaning hair follicles [and the] scalp the same way that shampoo does,” Rose says. 

What should you avoid in dry shampoo?

Whether you gravitate toward aerosol sprays or powder-based dry shampoo simply comes down to personal preference. If you’re looking for a product that is convenient and quick drying, aerosol dry shampoos are “easy to spray and provide a very even distribution,” says Rose. Aerosols are also lightweight, “which makes them suitable for all hair types, including fine hair.” However, for those with a sensitive scalp, artificial fragrances and alcohol-based ingredients can be harsh and irritate to hair follicles.

Powder-based dry shampoo is extremely effective at adding texture and volume to hair, and it absorbs oil better than aerosol products, Rose says. Often, powders also contain ingredients that are more gentle on your hair and scalp, she adds. However, if you haven’t used a powder dry shampoo before, it can be a little tricky to apply, as it may not distribute as evenly to the hair as a spray would. Powder products are also “more likely to leave a slight white residue on hair if not brushed out enough,” she says. 

Why you shouldn't use dry shampoo?

The overuse of dry shampoo may lead to dryness, breakage, clogged hair follicles and dandruff. While there are no studies directly linking the use of dry shampoo to hair loss, poor scalp health may indirectly contribute to losing your hair, according to Healthline. If you’ve found yourself experiencing some of these side effects, in order to restore scalp health, Rose suggests to “double shampoo your hair after using dry shampoo to ensure you remove all product from your scalp.” To prevent these side effects from manifesting in the first place, Rose says to “make sure you are using a clarifying shampoo once a week to ensure all product is being removed adequately from the scalp.”

More:Everything you need to know about dry shampoo