Let’s face it, sometimes there just aren’t enough hours in the day for a proper hair wash. Between work, social commitments, the gym and everything in between, finding the time to fit in a wash and blow-dry routine can be a real challenge. Of course, dry shampoos exist to solve this exact dilemma, but some people don’t love the feeling they can leave behind in their hair. Which is where social media’s latest beauty hack comes in: using micellar water to refresh your roots. 

Micellar water, traditionally a skincare staple, is being repurposed to tackle oily roots. The idea is simple: spritz micellar water onto your roots, then blow-dry your hair. The micelles in the water, known for their ability to capture and lift away dirt and oil from the skin, are thought to do the same for your scalp. It’s a game-changer for those in a rush or gym-goers who need a quick refresh but dread the chalky residue some dry shampoos leave behind.

While the hair hack is getting praise on social media, experts aren’t convinced. “Using micellar water in place of dry shampoo is not something we would recommend,” says Jane Martins, senior consultant trichologist at Philip Kingsley. “Micellar water is used to remove dirt and oil from the skin; dry shampoo is used to absorb oil. From a trichological perspective, it is best to use products specifically formulated for the hair and scalp.”

While it’s unlikely to cause any adverse reactions, using micellar water in place of a dry shampoo might not be great for the long-term health of your hair and scalp. For best results, stick to products designed with your hair in mind. But if you’re not a fan of traditional dry shampoos and for those days when you’re in a time crunch, a spritz of micellar water might just be the quick refresh you need.

Images: Getty