Can Micellar Water Replace Dry Shampoo? The Internet Thinks So

If you have a love-hate relationship with white residue-leaving dry shampoos, then this micellar water hack might be tailor-made for you. Yes, the same micellar water that you use to remove stubborn traces of make-up after a night out!

We’ve seen our fair share of bizarre beauty trends that have gone viral online. From salmon sperm facialstoSPF for hair, some work and some are just for the clicks. So is micellar water for hair a legit hack we can include in our beauty routines? While the Internet continues contributing to its hype, we decided to investigate it a little closely. So pause a little before chucking your nearest bottle of dry shampoo into the trash can and read what the experts have to say.

What is the micellar water for hair hack?

While the origins of the trend seem unclear, the micellar water for hair hack has been popularised by beauty content creator Tati Westbrook, who shared it as part of her ‘Top 5 Life Changing Beauty Hacks' video’ In the video, the iconic YouTuber recommends using oil-removing micellar water on the scalp and to mimic the effects of dry shampoo.

The hack also made its way to TikTok, as all beauty hacks do, where many creators began to test it with varying results. All you need, apparently, is an oil-removing micellar water, an empty spray bottle, a brush and a blow dryer.

To get it right, you need to separate your hair into sections and spritz the micellar water into your roots and hairline. You can also use a cotton ball or pad to apply the micellar water to your scalp. After this, you’re supposed to blow dry your hair for a fresh and bouncy look.

How is the micellar water for hair hack supposed to work?

Can micellar water absorb the oil from your scalp to give it a fresh effect á la dry shampoo? In theory, yes. “The key ingredients in micellar solutions are water and oil-based surfactants. Surfactants are unique molecules with a hydrophilic (water-attracting) head and a lipophilic (oil-attracting) tail. When a sufficient quantity of surfactant gets added to water, the molecules form clusters known as micelles,” says Hyderabad-based dermatologist and aesthetician Dr Mili Sinha, “The oily substance resides in the centre of the micelle, similar to an emulsion droplet. This combination of ingredients allows micellar water to effectively cleanse the accumulated debris and dirt without depleting the skin’s natural oils”.

What should you keep in mind before using micellar water on the scalp?

While micellar water can be great for extracting dirt and oil from the skin, using it on the scalp directly might be tricky. overusing it can lead to redness and itchiness and hamper scalp health. Dermatologist Dr Shachi Jain advises people with oily scalps to include micellar water in their haircare routine to get rid of visible flakes.

She even suggests that using it over time can regulate the release of oil from the glands. But for people with dry scalps and scalp conditions like psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis, she advises that it is not a very effective option to address fungal growth and curb the possibility of developing further infections as it may dehydrate the scalp and lead to hair fall. It’s best to consult your dermatologist before adding any new ingredient to your beauty routine.

So is micellar water the new dry shampoo?

Although micellar water may have properties that are appealing to Team Dry Shampoos Are the Worst, it can exacerbate other haircare concerns like dandruff and infections. Dr Shachi Jain agrees with beauty creators online as they claim micellar water’s oil-reducing properties for the scalp but does not consider it a permanent alternative to regular shampoo.

“Just the way a mouthwash helps to ward off bad breath and food residue within your teeth but does not substitute for your regular brushing. Micellar water can reduce flakiness but cannot substitute the shampoo used for your regular hair washing,” she says. Dr Mili Sinha adds, “For those seeking a quick fix to extend a blowout or add volume between washes, traditional dry shampoos remain unmatched. However, for a gentle, residue-free cleanse that retains the integrity of your hair and scalp, micellar water is a worthy addition to your hair care arsenal.”