Kristin Ess Style Reviving Dry Shampoo

Published By Laura Townsend

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Our Verdict
Kristin Ess Style Reviving Dry Shampoo delivers decent oil absorption at a budget-friendly price, making it an appealing option for light refreshers. Its fine mist application prevents heavy buildup, but also limits its effectiveness on heavily oiled hair. The scent is pleasant, though slightly overpowering initially. While it adds some volume, it doesn't significantly revive second or third-day hairstyles. Ultimately, it's a solid choice for maintaining cleanliness between washes and adding a touch of volume, but those with very oily hair or seeking significant style revival should consider stronger formulas. Buy it for affordable, everyday use; avoid it if you require heavy-duty oil control or significant styling benefits.
Audience Score
Pros
- Absorbs excess oil and refreshes hair between washes.
- Adds volume and texture for a more styled look.
- Leaves hair smelling clean and fresh.
- Lightweight formula doesn't weigh hair down.
- Affordable price point for a quality dry shampoo.
Cons
- Can leave a white cast, especially on dark hair.
- Some users find the scent overpowering or artificial.
- Can feel slightly sticky or gritty if too much is applied.
- May not absorb oil as effectively as other dry shampoos.
- The can's spray nozzle can sometimes malfunction.
Comparison
The most similar products compared
Audience Score | 84 Great! | 90 Excellent! | 84 Great! | 89 Great! |
Price | $15 | $28 | $46 | $39 |
Size | 4.3 oz / 122 g | 5.4 oz / 153 g | 2 oz / 56g | 5.3 oz / 150 g |
Good For Thinning Hair | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
Good For Damage | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
Volumizing | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Vegan | ✓ | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ |
Without Sulfates | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ |
Without Parabens | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ |
Increases Shine | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
Who Should Buy
This product is ideal for individuals with busy lifestyles who struggle to find time for frequent hair washing. It's also a great option for those with fine or oily hair that tends to look greasy quickly. If you're someone who enjoys extending the life of your hairstyle, whether it's elaborate curls or a simple blowout, this dry shampoo can help maintain volume and texture for an extra day or two. Additionally, this product is a fantastic travel companion as it helps freshen hair on the go and minimizes the need for daily washing in unfamiliar water conditions. Finally, it's a good choice for people looking to add texture and grip to their hair for styling purposes, even on freshly washed hair.
Who Should Not Buy
This product may not be suitable for individuals with extremely dry or sensitive scalps, as it could potentially exacerbate dryness or irritation. If you have a very dark hair color, be cautious, as some users have reported a slight white cast with this dry shampoo, although it generally blends well. Those who prefer a completely natural and organic approach to hair care might want to seek alternatives, as this product contains standard cosmetic ingredients. Finally, if you are looking for a dry shampoo with a very strong hold or volumizing effect, this product offers a more natural, refreshed look, rather than dramatic styling capabilities.
How To Use
Shake the can well before each use. Hold the can 6-8 inches away from your hair and spray onto the roots in short bursts, focusing on areas that appear oily or lackluster. Let the product sit for a minute or two to absorb excess oil and build volume. After the waiting period, gently massage the product into your scalp using your fingertips. You can then brush your hair to distribute the dry shampoo evenly and style as desired. For added texture and grip, you can also apply a small amount to the lengths of your hair.
Ingredients
This dry shampoo features a blend of ingredients designed to absorb oil, refresh hair, and add volume. Key ingredients include rice starch, which helps to soak up excess sebum, and tapioca starch, known for its oil-absorbing and mattifying properties. The formula also contains propane and butane, which are propellants that deliver the product in a fine mist. Fragrance is included to provide a pleasant scent. The full list of ingredients can be found on the product packaging and the manufacturer's website for those with specific ingredient sensitivities or allergies.
Scent
The Kristin Ess Style Reviving Dry Shampoo has a light, refreshing scent that is often described as clean and slightly sweet. It is not overpowering or perfume-like, making it suitable for those sensitive to strong fragrances. The scent dissipates relatively quickly after application, leaving hair smelling fresh and clean rather than perfumed. The specific fragrance notes may vary depending on the specific version of the dry shampoo, so checking the product description or packaging is advisable for a detailed breakdown.
Packaging
The Kristin Ess Style Reviving Dry Shampoo comes in a sleek, minimalist aerosol can. The can is typically white with simple, modern lettering, consistent with the overall aesthetic of the Kristin Ess brand. The size is convenient for travel and storage in a purse or gym bag. The nozzle dispenses a fine, even mist of dry shampoo, minimizing product waste and ensuring even application. The packaging is also recyclable, reflecting the brand’s commitment to sustainability.
Price
The Kristin Ess Style Reviving Dry Shampoo is generally considered to be affordably priced, especially considering its effectiveness and the quantity provided in each can. It's often competitively priced with other drugstore dry shampoos but offers a salon-quality performance. The exact price may vary depending on the retailer and any ongoing sales or promotions. Overall, it provides good value for its price point, making it a budget-friendly option for maintaining fresh, styled hair between washes.
Effectiveness
This dry shampoo is highly effective at absorbing excess oil and refreshing hair between washes. It quickly revives limp, greasy hair, adding volume and texture without leaving a heavy or sticky residue. It can effectively extend the life of your hairstyle for an extra day or two, making it a valuable tool for busy individuals or those who want to minimize heat styling. While it doesn't completely replace traditional shampooing, it provides a convenient and efficient way to maintain clean, styled hair on the go.