Hair Volumizing and Texture Powder

I have had fine, board-straight hair all my life, with the exception of the times when I've had a perm.

I love my stylist, she does a fantastic job cutting my hair the way I like and she has shown me the easiest way to style it, but without using "product" my hair will do nothing more than "fly away".

There is a powdery product in a red container with a black lid that she uses to give my hair texture and volume. I love that product. I am not sure what the price is in the salon, but, on Amazon the price is around $22 for .53 ounces.

Some would consider this a "luxury" and not worth the cost, or some just simply cannot afford the cost.

I have discovered a way to make a similar product at home using 3 simple ingredients that I can purchase at Walmart.

What you need:

Small mixing bowl

Sifter or fine mesh strainer

Small container with a shaker lid (e.g., an empty spice jar or makeup sifter jar)

Measuring spoons

Funnel

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons Cornstarch or Arrowroot Powder

1 tablespoon Rice Flour

1 teaspoon Baking Soda :

1-2 drops Essential Oil - optional (1-2 drops, e.g., lavender or tea tree):

1/4 teaspoon Cocoa Powder (optional, for dark hair):

Instructions:

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch (or arrowroot powder), rice flour, and baking soda. Use a sifter or fine mesh strainer to ensure a smooth, clump-free powder. This step is crucial to achieving the micro-fine texture similar to Powder Play.

Optional Color Adjustment: For darker hair, add a pinch of cocoa powder and mix thoroughly to blend. Test a small amount on your hair to ensure it doesn’t leave a visible residue.

Optional Scent: If using essential oil, add 1-2 drops to the mixture and stir well. Be cautious not to overdo it, as the original product is odorless.

Transfer to Container: Pour the mixture into a clean, dry shaker container for easy application. Ensure the container is airtight to prevent clumping from moisture.

Application: Sprinkle a small amount onto dry hair at the roots for lift or throughout the hair for texture and volume. Massage gently with fingertips to distribute and activate, as suggested for reactivating Powder Play. Use sparingly—a little goes a long way.

Tips for Use

Like the original, apply to dry hair for best results. Sprinkle lightly at the roots for lift or through mid-lengths to ends for texture and fullness.

Use for updos, braids, or to add grip for styling, as Powder Play is versatile for creating support without teasing.

Store in a cool, dry place to maintain powder consistency. Shake well before each use.

I used a salt shaker from the Dollar Tree and put a piece of clear packing tape on the top and inside of the lid. When I am ready to use this, I will take a sharp object and poke 1 or 2 holes in the tape. This way, I can control the amount of powder that comes out, and it will help keep some moisture out.

I also opted out of the essential oil and the cocoa powder. The store version is white in color and unscented.

Why these ingredients:

Cornstarch or Arrowroot Powder Acts as the primary volumizing and oil-absorbing base, similar to Silica Silylate in the original, providing texture and grip.

Rice Flour : Adds a lightweight, fine texture to enhance volume without weighing hair down, mimicking the rice bran oil’s role in the original for smooth application.

Baking Soda : Absorbs excess oil and adds slight lift at the roots, but use sparingly to avoid drying out hair.

Essential Oil - optional (1-2 drops, e.g., lavender or tea tree): Adds a subtle scent if desired, though the original is fragrance-free. Skip for a closer match.

Cocoa Powder (optional, for dark hair): Helps blend with darker hair colors to avoid a white cast, as the original is colorless and works on all hair types.