You’ve most likely heard of (and used) dry shampoo, but have you tried dry conditioner? The lesser-known counterpart is more important than you believe, especially during periods of frizz and flyaways. Consider it a spray-in version of a leave-in conditioner, but lighter and hence more portable.
Are you wondering if this is a useful tool to incorporate into your regimen or simply another fad? We sought advice from the authorities. In the video above, celebrity hairstylist Michelle Cleveland, as well as stylists Rashuna Durham and Becca Sible, explain the ins and outs of dry conditioner.
GET TO KNOW THE EXPERT
- Michelle Cleveland is a celebrity hairdresser at New Jersey’s Hair Addict Salon. Christina Milian is among her clientele, as are known personalities from VH1’s Mob Wives and Bravo’s Real Housewives franchise.
- Rashuna Durham is an Amika pro team stylist and lead pro instructor.
- Becca Sible is an Amika pro team stylist and lead pro instructor.
What Is Dry Conditioner?
Unlike dry shampoos, (new) dry conditioners are often made with oils and other conditioning components rather than powder. “Dry conditioner is a treatment that is sprayed on hair and does not require water like standard conditioner,” Durham explains. “It may be used as a finishing spray to nourish dry hair or to freshen your hair in the middle of the day. It moisturizes and detangles hair, combats frizz, and adds shine.”
Consider it your go-to in times of unpredictable rain, humidity, or those vexing flyaways that you wish would just… fly… away.
How to Apply a Dry Conditioner?
The overall application of a dry conditioner will feel similar to that of dry shampoo or hairspray, but the location within the hair will change. “It’s usually preferable to mix up your can of dry shampoo before spraying,” Cleveland says.
“Because natural oils are commonly found within, they may sink to the bottom of the container while not in use. Shaking before applying ensures that all components are thoroughly combined and will eject from the container together on each spray.”
Cleveland recommends holding the can six to eight inches away from your hair after shaking it. To minimize greasiness or buildup, use a regular conditioner and avoid the root and scalp areas. “The easiest technique to apply dry conditioner is to spray it from the mid-lengths to the ends,” Durham recommends. “A little heat will aid in product distribution.”
“Gently muss the hair afterwards to disperse the product around for a more equal distribution,” Cleveland says.
When Should You Use a Dry Conditioner?
Dry conditioner, like dry shampoo, is best used on days when your hair needs a little more support. “Reach for your dry conditioner when your hair feels dry, static-y, frizzy, or like it’s starting to tangle,” Durham advises. “A fast spray of dry conditioner will hydrate your style for a couple extra days.”
Greasy hair is still an enemy, and your dry shampoo and conditioner may frequently work together as a dream team to keep roots fresh and ends glowing. “Add dry shampoo on day two or three when your roots are oily to absorb oil and revitalize hair roots,” adds Sible.
“Spray dry conditioner on your mid-shaft and ends to smooth frizz, replenish moisture, and add shine. Keep dry conditioner away from your roots. You may only use a dry conditioner for two to three days at a time. After that, it may appear oily.”
Cleveland makes the following point about preventing grease: “Dry conditioner is best utilized in between regular washes to keep hair appearing moisturized and lustrous. I would avoid using a dry conditioner on the same day you wash your hair and instead use a standard conditioner, since this might result in a greasy, excessively glossy appearance.”
Durham further mentions that dry conditioners are normally ideal for fine or medium hair, but because all hair may suffer from dryness and frizziness, selecting the proper product for your texture is critical when adding a dry conditioner to your routine.
Dry Shampoo vs. Dry Conditioner
Consider dry shampoo and conditioner to be Batman and Robin. Although one is more well-known, both are heroes who get the job done. Durham adds, “Using both items might be your secret weapon for extending the life of your blowout.” “It’s your waterless wash dynamic pair.”
While the two get along well as a team, their real functions in hair preservation differ. “Dry shampoo is utilized at the root or scalp area and is generally intended to absorb excess oils that gather on the skin to give unwashed hair a new look,” Cleveland explains. “They may help enhance structure and volume to fine hair,” Durham says.
“Dry conditioner is really a dry version of a wet leave-in conditioner,” Cleveland explains. “Adding moisture to hair strands between washes, dry conditioner gives a burst of substances to the hair, including natural oils, without having to wet and wash.” Durham continues, “Your dry conditioner may detangle and de-frizz your hair, giving smoothness and luster.”
