5 Best Dry Shampoos Without Butane and Propane

By Charlene Latreuille
Updated May 25, 2023

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Sometimes, I wake up late in the morning and blame my alarm clock for not being loud enough to wake me up.

I usually panic and grab all my things and head out to work.

With the little time I have left to spare, I use a dry shampoo for quickly freshening up my hair.

In today’s modern world, everything seems to get more instant, and this creates an unlikely behavior where we tend to overlook how a product is harmful to us ­­­– just because it’s convenient.

And while other people seem to enjoy and patronize the use of these aerosol products such as hairsprays and dry shampoos, there are a few things we need to be concerned about.

Many of the instant hair products we use in our hair may contain harmful substances like:

• Butane
• Propane

What exactly are they and why should you be cautious?

Butane and propane in dry shampoo are propellants. They help propel the product out of the aerosol can and disperse it onto your hair.

These ingredients help to distribute the actual cleaning agent in the dry shampoo (like starches or clays) evenly across your hair. Once the propellant evaporates, the cleaning agent can start to absorb oils from your hair, leaving it looking fresh and clean.

The problem with butane and propane is that, if inhaled in large amounts, they can displace the oxygen in the air, potentially leading to symptoms like dizziness, light-headedness, and in extreme cases, loss of consciousness or asphyxiation.

Inhaling aerosols and particulate ingredients can have different health risks depending on their size.

The smaller they are, the more accessible and deeper they get into your lungs. Factors such as airborne concentration, frequency of use, and duration play a vital role in imposing a potential threat to your health.

Exposure to these chemicals may not only affect the lungs, but it can also penetrate your bloodstream.

Based on the data given by the New Jersey Department of Health, butane can affect you when inhaled and can lead to suffocation because it replaces the oxygen in your system.

Acute (short-term) side-effects of Butane and Propane:

• In contact with liquid, Butane can cause frostbite of the skin and eyes.
• Exposure to high concentrations can cause headache, drowsiness, lightheadedness and you can pass out due to lack of oxygen.

There’s still a lot to learn about the risks and harmful effects of Butane. Therefore, exercising high precaution about products that are not yet thoroughly tested and proven should be paramount.

Various studies published by ScienceMag, MedlinePlus, and Toxnet, reveal that dry shampoos could not only be contributing to air pollution but also harmful for you with extended use or exposure. Prolonged contact with the said chemicals has also been reported to cause some symptoms in the central nervous system.

Be a CONSCIOUS Consumer!

To you help you maintain a healthier outlook while still being on-the-go, we’ve gathered better options for you that DO NOT contain harmful chemicals like Butane, Propane, Talc, Phenoxyethanol, Siloxane, Silicones, and Cetrimonium chloride.

Here are the best butane and propane free dry shampoos to consider:

1. Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Biotin Dry Shampoo

Briogeo’s Scalp Revival Charcoal + Biotin Dry Shampoo offers a unique, non-aerosol formulation, free of butane and propane, commonly found in aerosol-based dry shampoos. This product is infused with charcoal, tea tree, and biotin to nourish the scalp and hair while absorbing excess oils.

With 99% of its ingredients naturally-derived, it provides a vegan and cruelty-free option for consumers seeking a healthier alternative to traditional dry shampoos.

The absence of butane and propane means you can enjoy refreshed hair without exposure to these potentially harmful gases, supporting a healthier scalp.

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2. The Earthling Co. Dry Shampoo

The Earthling Co. Dry Shampoo is an aerosol-free, plastic-free, and sulfate-free product presented in 100% paper packaging, underscoring the brand’s commitment to sustainability.

It does not contain butane and propane.

It’s an environmentally conscious alternative to conventional dry shampoos formulated with clean and organic ingredients.

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3. Drop Dead Gorgeous Non Aerosol Dry Shampoo

The Drop Dead Gorgeous Non Aerosol Dry Shampoo is a natural solution for those seeking to revive greasy hair without the use of conventional shampoos.

It deodorizes with bamboo charcoal and refreshes with peppermint and eucalyptus, providing a fresh feel without a wash. This award-winning product stands out in the dry shampoo market with its 100% naturally derived ingredients, completely free from butane, propane, isobutane, and carcinogens. This commitment to health and safety, coupled with its proven effectiveness, makes it a preferred choice for those seeking a safer, cleaner alternative to traditional aerosol-based dry shampoos​.

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4. MooGoo Dry Shampoo Waterless Cleanser

The MooGoo Dry Shampoo Waterless Cleanser is a natural, non-aerosol powder shampoo that freshens hair between washes. Made with Corn and Tapioca Starch, it effectively absorbs oils and is suitable for all hair types and colors.

The product comes in a shake bottle delivery system, avoiding the use of harsh ingredients that can coat and irritate the scalp. As an alternative to traditional aerosol dry shampoos that often contain volatile hydrocarbons like butane and propane, MooGoo offers a safer, butane-free, and propane-free solution. It avoids the potential dangers of fine aerosol particles entering the lungs and causing scalp irritation.

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5. Rahua Voluminous Dry Shampoo

Rahua Voluminous Dry Shampoo is a potent, plant-based solution that cleans, refreshes, and adds volume to all hair types.

Crafted without harmful butane and propane, it emphasizes safety and environmental responsibility with an eco-friendly non-aerosol dispenser. The formula boasts organic, food-grade Cassava starch that absorbs oil and perspiration, along with cosmetic clay for further oil absorption. The inclusion of organic star anise ensures a pleasing fragrance and helps maintain scalp health.

Organic and chemical free Zero Butane and Propane dry shampoo

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Dangers of Overusing Aerosol-Based Dry Shampoos

• Flammability: Both butane and propane are highly flammable. This means that they can easily ignite and cause fires if they come into contact with a heat source or flame. This can pose a risk if aerosol cans are stored near a heat source, used near an open flame, or if they are punctured or damaged.
• Inhalation: If inhaled in large amounts, butane and propane can displace the oxygen in the air, potentially leading to symptoms like dizziness, light-headedness, and in extreme cases, loss of consciousness or asphyxiation.
• Skin and Eye Irritation: Direct contact with these propellants can cause irritation to the skin and eyes. In some cases, it may also cause allergic reactions.
• Environmental Impact: There is some concern about the impact of these propellants on the environment. Butane and propane contribute to ground-level ozone formation, a key component of smog.
• Container Explosion: Under certain conditions, the aerosol cans that contain these propellants can explode. This can occur if the can is heated, punctured, or damaged in some way.
• Inappropriate use or misuse: There have been reports of misuse of aerosol products, including inhalant abuse, which can have serious health consequences.

It’s important to note that these risks are generally low when the product is used as directed. Most incidents occur when the product is misused or used in a way that is not recommended. As with all products, it’s important to read and follow the instructions on the label.

How To Keep Your Hair Fresh And Clean For Longer Without Dry Shampoos

It’s no secret that dry shampoos are lifesavers.

But too much of it can do more harm than good, especially if you’re using cheap ones that contain harmful Aerosols.

Let me give you some tips on how you can limit the use of dry shampoos and still keep your hair clean and refreshed in between your washes.

Adopt the less is more mantra.

1. Wash Your Hair Less

Change the way you wash your hair. Frequent washing can be damaging, especially when it is colored or bleached. Try limiting your hair washing to at least three times a week, so your hair does not lose its natural oils and proteins.

Now, if you are still having trouble with buildup and struggle to find the right solution, we recommend a weekly clarifying shampoo, this helps detoxify your hair from root to tip, removing impurities and excess oils.

To help you even more, did you know that using low pH shampoos is well encouraged? It is because it promotes LESS friction, frizz, and hair breakage. It is wise that you get a shampoo with a pH level lower than 5.5.

2. Educate Yourself

Knowing your hair type is essential as it helps you narrow down on your options. This way, you are not only saving money, but you are using the right product necessary for your exact needs.

3: Brush Away

Regularly brushing your hair reduces the risk of dandruff. By doing so, you help aid in the normal shedding of the skin and distribute natural oils while exfoliating the scalp and stimulating circulation to the hair follicles.

I recommend a boar bristle brush. It is premium grade and guarantees minimal effort that will ultimately groom your hair and scalp — an excellent investment for your hard-earned money.

4. Don’t be a Cheapskate

Sometimes being thrifty might not do you well, so investing in quality hair products can mean that you do not only care for yourself now, but you are saving yourself from problems in the future. Quality products tend to last longer, have better components, and much safer to use.

5. Consistency is Key

Doing something at first might be very easy, but maintaining a healthy habit and lifestyle can be very challenging. To get the most out of the tools and things that are beneficial to you, being consistent in using them every time can reap you so many positive results.

6. Don’t Self-Diagnose

If you still encounter numerous complications with regards to your hair and scalp and feel that nothing might be working, then seeking treatment from a medical practitioner might be best.

The internet is beneficial, but when it comes to your well-being, going to the right people for legit advice is necessary.

Stay Away from Butane and Propane Dry Shampoos

Prevention will always be better than cure.

It is better to be safe than sorry. So we propose that if you use these kinds of products, whether it’d be a dry shampoo without butane or propane, use it with caution.

Although doing extensive research about a product before using it can also be a smart move.

However, you still want to take advantage of the convenience of these kinds of products daily, then you should consider making your DIY version.

Have a great hair day!