Clean hair can be harder to style than hair that’s had a day or two between washes. I remember my hairstylist telling me not to wash my hair the day of my wedding because slightly lived-in hair holds an up-do so much better. If you want the easier styling of “dirtier” hair without sacrificing the fresh-clean feeling, a simple dry shampoo is the answer. This DIY dry shampoo for blondes soaks up oil, adds volume, and makes styling effortless—while subtly minimizing the appearance of dark roots.
Dry shampoo works by absorbing excess oil at the roots and adding texture where hair feels limp. This homemade version uses two pantry-friendly powders plus a few drops of essential oil for a fresh scent. It’s quick to make—just a few minutes in a bowl—and it stores well, so you can keep a jar in your bathroom or purse for touch-ups between washes.
Dry Shampoo for Blondes
This post contains product suggestions; adapt to personal preference and skin sensitivity.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons cornstarch
- 4 tablespoons arrowroot powder
- About 20 drops eucalyptus essential oil (or your preferred essential oil)
The cornstarch and arrowroot both absorb oil and add a little body at the roots. Arrowroot is a fine, silky powder often used in cooking; cornstarch is typically easier to find in most kitchens. The essential oil gives a light, fresh scent—eucalyptus is invigorating, but lavender, rosemary, or peppermint are also nice choices depending on your preference and sensitivity.
Why this works for blondes
Light powders blend most naturally with blonde and light-colored hair. This combination minimizes the white cast common to some commercial dry shampoos while still delivering oil absorption and volume. If you have darker hair and want to adapt this recipe, you can experiment with a tiny pinch of cocoa powder (very small amounts) to help match darker tones—test first to avoid noticeable color change.
Recipe details
Servings: about 1/2 cup (enough for multiple uses)
Prep time: 5 minutes
Total time: 5 minutes
Instructions
- Place the cornstarch and arrowroot powder into a clean mixing bowl.
- Add about 20 drops of eucalyptus essential oil to the powders and stir thoroughly to distribute the scent evenly. Adjust the number of drops to your preference—start with fewer if you are sensitive to fragrance.
- Transfer the mixture to an airtight jar for storage. Glass jars or small mason jars work well.
- Shake or stir the jar before each use to redistribute any settled oil and scent.
How to apply
- Apply to dry hair. Use a makeup brush, a small powder brush, or your fingertips to dust the mixture onto roots and any oily spots.
- Work a small amount at a time, focusing where hair looks flat or shiny.
- Allow the powder to sit a moment, then gently massage or brush through to blend and remove excess powder.
- Style as usual. You should notice added lift and texture, making up-dos and everyday styles easier to manage.
Storage and tips
- Store in a cool, dry place in an airtight container for up to three months.
- Shake well before using to keep ingredients evenly mixed.
- Test a small amount on hair first if you’re trying a new essential oil or adapting the powder for darker hair colors.
- If any powder appears overly visible after application, work it in with a boar-bristle brush or lightly blow-dry on a cool setting while lifting roots.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Jar with airtight lid (mason jar recommended)
- Small powder brush or makeup brush for application (optional)
This simple DIY dry shampoo is an easy, affordable way to keep blonde hair looking fresh and styled between washes. It absorbs oil, adds volume, and can help disguise darker regrowth until your next salon visit. Have you tried a homemade dry shampoo before? Adapt the scent and texture to suit your routine and enjoy the added lift and convenience.