DIY Dry Shampoo Formulation and Scent
Question
I saw several D.I.Y. dry shampoo formulas on foreign websites and tried the simplest one:
- corn starch
- water
- rubbing alcohol
- essential oil
However, the result had a very strong rubbing alcohol smell. I haven't even dared to try using it yet!
I would like some advice or a good formula for DIY Dry Shampoo that works well and smells nice, similar to products like Batiste.
Answer
DIY Dry Shampoo Recommendations
It sounds like your first attempt at DIY dry shampoo resulted in a strong rubbing alcohol smell, which is understandable as rubbing alcohol (often isopropyl alcohol) can have a pungent odor. The good news is there are better ways to make dry shampoo that can give you a result closer to commercial products like Batiste, especially in terms of texture and scent.
Using a dedicated dry shampoo base powder is a great starting point. We have a product called Dry Shampoo Powder (Natural Rice Powder Based) which is specifically designed for this purpose. It contains modified rice starch for oil absorption and Cetrimonium Chloride to help with hair feel and static.
Here are two basic formulation ideas using this powder:
Formula Options:
Dry Powder Formula:
- Talc (or other cosmetic powder like corn starch, tapioca starch, etc.): 92%
- Dry Shampoo Powder (Natural Rice Powder Based): 8%
- Optional: Add a small amount of fragrance oil or essential oil for scent. Mix thoroughly.
How to use: Apply a small amount to the roots of your hair, let it sit for a minute or two to absorb oil, then brush or shake out the excess.
Liquid/Alcohol Spray Formula:
- Ethyl Alcohol (Ethanol): 92%
- Dry Shampoo Powder (Natural Rice Powder Based): 8%
- Optional: Add a small amount of fragrance oil or essential oil for scent. Mix well before each use as the powder will settle.
How to use: Spray onto the roots of your hair from a few inches away, let the alcohol evaporate and the powder absorb oil, then brush or shake out the excess.
Regarding the Alcohol Smell: The strong smell in your previous attempt was likely from the type of alcohol used (rubbing alcohol). If you prefer a spray formula, using Ethyl Alcohol might give a less harsh scent, and adding fragrance will help mask any remaining alcohol smell. However, the dry powder formula avoids the alcohol smell altogether and is very effective.
To get a nice scent like Batiste, you can experiment with cosmetic-grade fragrance oils or essential oils suitable for hair products. Add just a few drops to your chosen formula and mix well.
By using a proper dry shampoo base powder and selecting your alcohol and fragrance carefully, you should be able to create a DIY dry shampoo that works well and smells great!
