Since Meagan’s Shampowder review – which I largely agree with, by the way – provided a basic rundown of the product, its promises and how well it delivers on them, I figured I would use my turn at the LatestBeauty pulpit to answer another burning dry shampoo question you might have: How does Shampowder compare to Tresemme’s Fresh Start Dry Shampoo, which I snatched up for less than $2 at the drugstore? Read on for the details of this heated beauty battle…

EASE OF USE: Fresh Start is dispensed in a spray can, which – as Meagan mentioned – is pretty standard when it comes to dry shampoos. Shampowder, on the other hand, comes in a cute little tube with a brush for more targeted application. I like that the tube is clear, so you can see how much Shampowder you have left, I love how the bristles are protected when you close the cap, and I love the portability. I ‘ll admit that the brush application did take a little getting used to on my end, but once I got the hang of it, I definitely preferred it to the spray. WINNER? Shampowder!

SCENT: Shampowder describes its scent as a “light vanilla.” Another blogger (I can’t remember which! argh) said that it reminded her of cupcakes. Personally, I think it’s somewhat baby powder-esque, but a lighter, more sophisticated version of baby powder. The Fresh Start isn’t terrible, but it’s also a little odd and takes some getting used to. Shampowder smells great from the beginning, and it won’t overwhelm you if you have a sensitive nose or you like to wear perfume, lotion or body mist. WINNER? Shampowder!

OIL-ABSORBING ABILITY: Okay, I have to be honest here…I haven’t been using the Fresh Start a whole lot lately. Why? Because I keep reaching for the Shampowder instead! It’s so much better at absorbing oil and adding subtle body without forcing you to sit there while it soaks in and then brush it through a million times until the white foam disappears (if you’re lucky). Mineral pigments in Shampowder mean that it’s tailored to match your hair color (blonde, black or brown/red), and the fine texture means that it’s absorbed instantly into your hair. Brush it through just a few times – or don’t! – and you’re good to go. Like Meagan, I wasn’t able to actually go a full week without an old-fashioned wet shampoo, but it’s definitely a godsend if you’ve skipped for a day or two. WINNER? Shampowder!

PRICE: Finally, we have the little matter of the price tag to consider. Tresemme’s dry shampoo sells for around $6.99 (or less, if you can find a deal or you have a coupon – like I said, I got mine for just $1.34). Shampowder, however, retails for $15.99 on the Buttercream Cosmetics website. That makes Shampowder more than twice as expensive. However, I do feel like the quality you get is much higher, and the price tag seems fair. Still, if you’re looking for an extremely cheap dry shampoo, it’s clear who comes out on top in the price category. WINNER? Tresemme Fresh Start!

ULTIMATE WINNER:

SHAMPOWDER!

Since this little miracle in a tube swept 3 of the 4 categories, I have to hand it to Buttercream – they have a winner on their hands with this product. I thought I was happy with Fresh Start until I tried Shampowder! If you’re as intrigued by dry shampoo as we are, you have to check it out.