You know what? We’re just going to say it: dry shampoo might be the best thing since sliced bread. Though the product was first commercially produced in the 1940s, it’s gained more and more popularity in the few past years to make it an absolute must for any woman who’s conservative with washing her hair for any number of reasons.

By its basic function, it’s particularly helpful for infrequently washed braids. The longevity of such a hairstyle paired with the ability to diminish oil build-up makes for feeling fresher, longer. Being able to cleanse without using water may seem like an utter dream come true, but we’ve compiled a list of the best dry shampoo for braids to prove otherwise.

Cantu Refresh Dry Co-wash with Apple Cider Vinegar and Tea Tree Oil

$6 at time of publication

Miracle ingredients apple cider vinegar and tea tree oil combine in this part dry shampoo part conditioner product that absorbs oils and adds natural shine, all without leaving residue. Not only does it do the work of a dry shampoo, but Co-wash serves as a curl-definer and keeps natural hair feeling soft and fresh.

Even as the most inexpensive of these dry shampoo for braids, it gets the job done. Cantu is serious about not leaving any residue, making it the perfect option for keeping your hair feeling clean and rejuvenated even with the oiliest hair types. Oh, and don’t fear when it comes to the apple cider vinegar–this product smells pleasant and is sensitive enough for irritable skin types.

Batiste Hint of Color Divine Dark Dry Shampoo

$7 at time of publication

If there’s a go-to drug store brand for dry shampoo for braids, it’s Batiste. It’s so popular for a reason, as it performs just as well as some pricier alternatives for just a fraction of the cost. While lighter hair colors fare well with the original product, the Hint of Color line replaces white powder altogether (though it can easily be massaged out in darker hair colors as well).

In terms of accessibility and affordability, Batiste lands among our top dry shampoo for braids that have made hair maintenance pretty effortless.

Shea Moisture Jojoba Oil & Ucuuba Butter No-Rinse Foam Cleanser

$12 at time of publication

This super-hydrating cleanser is almost too good to be true. Made to work with all hair types, this light and refreshing formula comes in a foam form and goes an incredibly long way. It doesn’t leave residue but instead leaves your hair feeling soft and fresh without a traditional wash.

The product reportedly works very well with natural styles as well; it is within our top tier of dry shampoos for braids currently on the market. And, it is a reasonably-priced alternative to many higher-end products.

Evo Water Killer Dry Shampoo

$12 at time of publication

This product certainly doubles down by serving as a two-in-one dry shampoo and styling spray. Made specifically for darker hair, Water Killer remains one of our favorites among the best dry shampoos for braids to absorb excess oils without the worry of white residues or overwhelming scents.

Just a little of this formula goes far–that means extending time in between washes to keep you feeling fresh without even a touch of water. Water Killer falls in the middle of our spread of prices, but it still remains an affordable, quality pick for braids.

AMIKA Perk Up Dry Shampoo

Likely one of the most versatile dry shampoos for braids, Perk Up Dry Shampoo is enriched with natural rice starch, making it incredibly effective in soaking up oils for a plethora of hair types. AMIKA’s formula has a cool, refreshing feeling on the scalp along with a sweet, berry-infused scent to have you looking, smelling, and feeling great between uses and washes.

But we know what you’re thinking–$25.00 for dry shampoo? Though it nears the maximum price among our chosen dry shampoos for braids, it effectively refreshes your hair and scalp with a light, airy feel, and absolutely no powdery residue. For minimizing build-up and not wearing down your hair after several uses, AMIKA is a good investment if you’re looking to stay fresh for long periods between washes.

Moroccanoil Dry Shampoo Dark Tones

$26 at time of publication

If there’s an especially persuasive selling-point for Morroccanoil Dry Shampoo, it’s a lengthy duration of oil-absorption on roots. An incredibly effective combination of rgan oil and rice starch leaves the scalp feeling fresh and dry with a mild scent of amber and sweet florals.

This formula also completely avoids visible residue and is suitable for the most sensitive of scalps. Though it ranks most expensive on our list of dry shampoos for braids, it holds a place for a multitude of reasons.