While second-day hair looks fantastic on plenty of people, a good portion of the population needs some intervention for things to look (and feel) as good as freshly washed locks. That's why we all thanked the beauty gods when we were first introduced to dry shampoo. It was the hair equivalent of a magic wand — and we were convinced it could solve just about any hair need.
But lately, we've become a little disillusioned by our once favorite product. Why? There have been reports that it's actually not all that great for your scalp. Plus, a lot of people hate how dry and chalky some formulations leave their strands. And then, there are many hair types that don't jibe with this "miracle" product.
So how are you supposed to revive your hair (sans washing it) on day two if you're not a dry-shampoo person? Have no fear. We've rounded up a bevy of alternatives that are meant to make your strands look like new each and every morning — without lathering up. Click through to meet your new saviors.
Hair Perfume
There's nothing worse than spending an evening out at a smoky bar and waking up with stinky hair the next morning. A regular spritz of perfume can dry out your tresses, thanks to the alcohol. But this formula from Oribe does the opposite. Not only does it lightly scent your hair with the brand's signature fragrance, but Côte D'Azur also helps to condition your strands with amber extracts. Plus, it cuts static, so you can spritz it on in the morning and waltz out the door.
Oribe Côte D'Azur Hair Refresher, $25, available at Oribe.
The Second-Day Blowdry
If excess oil is the reason you reach for dry shampoo every morning, consider this: You can give your hair a little blast with a blowdrier to achieve the same results. Simply flip your hair over, put the dryer on a low heat setting, and dry around the hairline. It will help dry up the oil and give your hair a shot of volume, which is a win-win for a second-day style. Just don't make a regular habit of this. If your hair is really oily and sweaty, you've gotta shower and shampoo.
Thairapy 365 ThairaDry Infrared Hair Dryer, $180, available at Bergdorf Goodman.
Detangler
All hair textures, especially curly types, can become knotted and matted as you sleep. So it's important to keep a detangler on hand to help work out those kinks, since brushing can not only screw with your style, but also stretch and break your strands. This one from Klorane is especially great because it conditions while detangling, leaving your strands super-smooth.
Klorane Leave-In Detangling Spray with Oat Milk, $18, available at Sephora.
Dry Conditioner
There's a huge difference between dry shampoo and dry conditioner. The latter works similarly to regular conditioner, as it hydrates and adds a ton of shine and texture. In fact, it's a fantastic product to pick up after you've used too much dry shampoo because it brings back moisture. But it's also great for cutting static and adding a bouncy texture. Love extending your blowdry-bar blowout? This bottle is for you.
Pureology Fresh Approach Dry Conditioner, $24, available at Ulta Beauty.
Shine Spray
Sometimes, all your hair needs is some extra shine to look its best. This bottle from Moroccanoil goes one step further. A healthy spritz of this stuff adds major shine, and also hydrates with the help of argan oil — which is chock-full of antioxidants, including vitamin E. Just make sure to use a light touch. If you spray too much, you'll venture into grease town.
Moroccanoil Glimmer Shine Spray, $28, available at Moroccanoil.
Texture Balm & Water
If you're worried about texture sprays drying out your hair, reach for a balm — and then get a little crafty. Hairstylist Wes Sharpton of Hairstory Studio gave us this easy tip for reviving curls without rewashing: Simply emulsify three pumps of Hair Balm in an atomizer and then spritz all over your hair. As your hair dries, the balm will redefine your curls without making them crispy or crunchy, and leave them super-soft.
Hairstory Hair Balm, $36, available at Hairstory.
Like this post? There's more. Get tons of beauty tips, tutorials, and news on the Refinery29 Beauty Facebook page. Like us on Facebook — we'll see you there!
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
This $2 Hack Will Give You Mermaid Hair Color At Home