It’s common for people to notice a difference in their hair after moving to a different city or country. Humidity and pollution levels – even altitude - can play havoc with curls, frizz, texture and shine. If these factors don’t account for suddenly dry, rough hair, hard water may be the culprit.
Why Does Hard Water Affect Hair?
Hard water is simply water that is very mineral-rich, containing high levels of calcium and magnesium in particular. Areas with a lot of limestone and chalky soil are prone to hard water. A simple way to test water’s hardness is to try to lather soap in a cup of water – hard water will not lather nearly as well as soft. Alternatively, take a look at the toilet and shower – hard water often leaves a reddish buildup on these surfaces.
Hard water isn’t all bad news for hair – drinking it can help prevent mineral deficiences which lead to hair loss. However, washing hair in hard water can cause problems. Mineral buildup on the hair can stain chemically coloured hair a rusty colour. Lathering issues can cause shampoos to foam less efficiently And the minerals in hard water open the cuticles of the hair, causing roughness, splits and tangling.
How to Help Hair Damaged By Hard Water
Distilled water is completely free of minerals. Used as a rinse after washing hair, it can help alleviate dryness and discolouration caused by hard water. Filtered or bottled water are cheaper alternatives. Some people prefer to use soft water for the entire washing process, although this can be expensive. Don’t heat the water, especially for a final rinse: cold water closes the cuticle of the hair, which is particularly beneficial when the cuticle has been opened by hard water.
Installing a water filtration system to soften the household’s water supply is an expensive but convenient solution to the problem. Some filters attach directly to the shower head, and purify water not only from minerals but chlorine. As chlorine is also damaging to hair, this is a particularly hair-friendly investment.
For damaged hair, treat with a clarifying or chelating shampoo before starting a washing routine that uses soft water and plenty of moisture and protein. Conditioner-only washing may be a useful method in this instance. It’s also possible to purchase hair products specifically designed to remove mineral buildup from hair – ask at a beauty supply store or salon for demineralising treatment.
Natural solutions include using a weak vinegar rinse, which helps flatten the cuticle of the hair, or washing hair with rainwater collected outside. Rainwater is soft, but this solution should be attempted with caution due to possible pollutants. Ring the local council to find out if rainwater is safe in your area.
Sarah Tennant - Sarah Tennant is a onetime English major who lives in New Zealand with her husband and two small children. Her interests range from ...
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