The Best Hair Powders of 2024

Buying Guide: Hair Powders

If you're anything like us, we know you’ve tried the old talc hair powder trick. Just before leaving the house, you realize your locks are looking rather greasy, and in a moment of desperation, you fluff some talc powder through the roots in a pinch. From there, you leave the house smelling like baby products, which might not be ideal, but at least your hair looks good... Right?

Well, maybe not. But the good news is that you can now eliminate that greasy feeling while boosting your color thanks to a product known as hair styling powder. Today, we’re digging into what exactly hair powder is, all of the benefits it offers, and how you can get the most out of your application.

What Is Hair Powder?

Hair powder is made with silica, which creates friction between hair strands. This results in a thicker, fuller, and more textured look among the lengthy list of its many benefits. Additional ingredients can assist with oil absorption to enhance volume and maintain better hold.

If you asked us, we'd say a wonderful thing about hair powder is that all you need is a small amount to yield great results. Not only does hair powder come in compact sizes but it's also not a liquid, making it possible to pop a hair powder product into your carry-on luggage or put it in your everyday for touch-ups throughout the day. Plus, the mattifying powder is also reworkable. This means that you simply need to scrunch your locks to create a boost of volume.

For those who need to mask a little bit of root regrowth, root touch-up powders are the new go-to. You no longer have to sport a headband, beanie, or baseball cap for an entire week before making it to your next salon appointment! Instead, rely on a hair powder for colors that will blend seamlessly with your roots and last you until your next wash. Hair powders are also effective when you need to fill in the gaps of a bolder high-pony hairline or effectively cover bald spots and patchy beards.

How to Apply Hair Powder

Styling powder should always be applied to dry hair, regardless of the technique you use.

Sprinkle

The easiest way to apply hair powder is by sprinkling a pinch of hair powder onto your dry roots and massaging the powder with your fingertips. This will offer a root lift, which is generally where natural oils wear the volume down.

Ponytail Perfection

Although this styling powder is generally applied near your scalp at the roots, you can also use it for added grip and texture in a ponytail. Lightly sprinkle and work the powder through the lengths of your hair or apply the powder on the ends to plump them up as desired. If you are styling an updo, the powder will offer better staying power, too.

Crew Cut or Pixie Cut

If you have a short cut, tap a little powder into the palm of your hands. Apply it directly to your dry hair as you style it with your fingertips. You can also use a wide-toothed comb for a textured look.

Root Regrowth Powder

These need to be applied with much more precision than clear or neutral hair powders. Some powders will come with an applicator, though alternatively, you can use a makeup brush to apply the color powder to the areas you wish to conceal. In this case, we just recommend that you don't use your hands when applying root regrowth powder.

Hair Powder Tips

• If you are new to mattifying powder, you might be overly keen when applying it the first few times. But trust us when we say you really only need to use a little at a time. It's a good idea to start with a small amount and add more if needed rather than applying too much at once, resulting in a puff of powder on your head.
• Hair powder is not the same as dry shampoo, and it is not a replacement for washing your hair. Think of it as a styling product that needs to be washed out of your hair instead. Otherwise, you'll end up with a bunch of build-up on your scalp. Make sure you pair it with a high-quality shampoo for your scalp and a nourishing conditioner for the hair strands and ends.
• If you have thinner hair, start applying hair powder at the roots and work it down throughout your hair strands. This will give you better styling control and a much fuller look!