DIY: Dry Shampoo

A Natural Way to Refresh Hair Between Washes

Dry shampoo is one of those modern beauty staples many of us rely on, but most commercial formulas come with hidden trade-offs. Aerosol sprays often contain synthetic fragrance, butane, or talc, and many leave behind residue that irritates the scalp or dulls the natural shine of your hair. If you’ve been looking for a cleaner, simpler alternative, you can make one right from your kitchen in less than five minutes.

This DIY cocoa powder dry shampoo is gentle, effective, and smells faintly like chocolate... what’s not to love?

Why Switch to a Natural Dry Shampoo?

Traditional dry shampoos work by coating the hair shaft with synthetic powders and propellants that absorb oil. They may offer instant results, but over time, they can clog follicles, dry the scalp, and even interfere with natural oil balance.

Natural options use plant-based powders that do the same job, soaking up excess oil and refreshing hair... but without any buildup or harsh ingredients. Ingredients like arrowroot, cocoa powder, and cinnamon work synergistically to refresh hair while providing trace minerals and a touch of natural color blending.

Even better, this blend supports the scalp’s natural microbiome, which plays an important role in healthy hair growth and shine.

About the Ingredients

Cocoa Powder – Rich in antioxidants and minerals like magnesium and iron, cocoa gives this blend its deep brown tint for darker hair tones. It also carries a naturally sweet, subtle scent that makes this DIY dry shampoo feel like a luxury spa moment.

Arrowroot Powder – A silky, ultra-fine starch that absorbs oil without leaving a chalky residue. It’s gentle enough for sensitive scalps and helps create that soft, clean texture without dryness.

Cinnamon (optional) – Adds warmth to lighter hair shades and helps stimulate circulation to the scalp when gently massaged in.

Essential Oils (optional) – Just a drop or two adds a refreshing touch.

Lavender offers calming properties.
Peppermint provides a cooling, energizing sensation.
Rosemary is known for promoting scalp health and vitality.

Ingredients:

For dark hair:

2 tbsp cocoa powder
1 tbsp arrowroot powder (or cornstarch if that’s what you have)
Optional: 1–2 drops of essential oil (try lavender, peppermint, or rosemary)

For medium hair:

2 tbsp arrowroot powder
1 tbsp cocoa powder

For light hair:

3 tbsp arrowroot powder (no cocoa)
Optional: a pinch of cinnamon for warmth

Directions:

Step 1: Combine ingredients in a small jar or spice shaker with a lid.

Step 2: Stir or shake until evenly blended.

Step 3: Apply it with a makeup brush directly to roots, or sprinkle lightly and work it through with your fingers. Let it sit for a minute or two, then brush out any excess.

How to Use

For touch-ups: Apply to roots on dry hair and brush through.

For freshening up post-workout or before an event: Sprinkle, wait one minute, then comb out.

For added volume: Work a small amount into roots with fingertips while blow-drying on cool.

A little goes a long way - start small, and reapply only as needed.

Clean Beauty, Simplified

This recipe fits seamlessly into a low-tox, wellness-centered routine. It’s free from propellants, talc, artificial fragrance, and preservatives. Plus, it’s fully customizable for your hair tone and scent preferences.

It’s proof that effective self-care doesn’t have to come from a lab. Sometimes the best solutions are the simplest, straight from nature’s pantry.

Don’t Want to DIY?

If you prefer a ready-made version with the same clean philosophy, try Earthley’s Rosemary Lavender Dry Shampoo.

It’s an all-natural formula that freshens hair quickly with just a few clean, botanical ingredients... no cocoa powder in this one, no harsh fillers, and no compromise on quality.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a busy parent, a wellness enthusiast, or simply someone who loves an easy, natural upgrade to daily routines, this cocoa powder dry shampoo brings balance between simplicity and self-care. It’s gentle, effective, and rooted in the idea that our bodies thrive when we work with nature, not against it.

So next time your hair needs a quick refresh, skip the aerosol can and reach for your DIY jar instead. Your scalp and the planet will thank you.