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Washing your hair daily is a beauty no-no, with experts saying it can lead to dry and damaged hair. Most experts say you should only wash your hair a few days a week. One of the best companions for those who don’t shampoo daily is dry shampoo. Some people even say you can use cornstarch or baking powder in a bind.
Another recent DIY dry shampoo idea that’s been trending on social media is using micellar water to soak up oil on your scalp. But does it really work? To answer this question, we asked two board-certified dermatologists for their thoughts.
SKIP AHEAD What is micellar water? | Can micellar water be used as dry shampoo? | How to use micellar water as dry shampoo? | Micellar water that can be used as dry shampoo
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What is micellar water?
In recent years, micellar water has become a popular facial cleansing option. However, in our guide to washing your face, dermatologists told us that it should be used in addition to a gentle cleanser, not in place of one. Ideally, it is used on clean skin free of makeup in the morning, whereas a traditional cleanser is better used at night to remove the day’s makeup, dirt and grime. “Micellar water contains micelles which attract and trap dirt and oil,” says Dr. Kellie E. Reed, a board-certified dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology.
Can micellar water be used as dry shampoo?
Though micellar water is not created specifically for hair, it does have the potential to be used to soak up grease on your scalp and strands, says Dr. Yoram Harth, a board-certified dermatologist and medical director of MDHair. “It has gentle cleansing properties that can refresh hair between washes without needing to be rinsed out.”
Micellar water may even have some perks over dry shampoo. “Micellar water is less likely to leave residue or buildup compared to some dry shampoos, which can be beneficial for maintaining scalp health,” says Harth. “Its formulation is also generally more hydrating and less likely to cause scalp dryness.”
But just because micellar water can work as a dry shampoo, it doesn’t mean everyone should use it. Similar to dry shampoo, if you have a dry or sensitive scalp, using anything that draws away oil (your body’s natural lubrication) could be irritating. “Those with color-treated hair should also test it first, as it might affect the hair dye,” says Harth.
How to use micellar water as dry shampoo
There are several different types of micellar waters on the market — including scented versions, formulas for acne-prone skin and more. “If you want to try this trend, opt for gentle, fragrance-free formulas, to minimize irritations or allergies,” says Reed. “You can also look for a formula that is mattifying.”
When applying the micellar water, avoid dumping it on your roots, which will just soak your hair. “Instead, use a cotton pad and wipe away oil from the roots,” says Reed. Remember, it’s hard to return from using too much, but you can always add more. From there, Harth suggests letting hair air dry naturally to soak up oil as it dries.
Micellar waters that can be used as dry shampoo
Want to try using micellar water as dry shampoo? The below options all have at least a 4-star average rating from over 900 reviews on Amazon.
Meet our experts
At NBC Select, we work with experts with specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and experience. We also ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.
- Dr. Kellie E. Reed is a board-certified dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology.
- Dr. Yoram Harth is a board-certified dermatologist and medical director of MDHair.
Why trust NBC Select?
Bethany Heitman is a contributor at NBC Select and a journalist who regularly covers beauty, home and lifestyle. For this story, she interviewed dermatologists about using micellar water as dry shampoo.
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