Hard Water Hair

Girl with wet and freshly washed hair — Photo: Istockphoto

Don't let hard water ruin your hair!

I live in a region where untreated well water is commonly referred to as 'hard' water. The higher the mineral content, such as magnesium and calcium, the 'harder' the water becomes. Unfortunately, this can spell disaster for your hair, wreaking havoc on any fabulous dye job you've just had done. It can also lead to clogged showerheads and leave unsightly dark rings in toilet bowls and sinks, creating a cleaning nightmare!

My natural hair color is dark, but without treating my 'hard' water, I've found myself sporting more shades of orange than I care to admit. Sometimes, there's even a greenish tinge to my hair. Additionally, hair can feel sticky, limp, dull, and lifeless, no matter how many times you rinse it.

Some stylists recommend using a clarifying shampoo weekly or even a dishwashing detergent to help remove deposits from the hair shafts. However, be cautious, as these treatments can also be harsh on your hair, particularly if it's chemically treated or straightened. Certain products can be very drying. If your water is 'hard', the effects on curly hair can be quite noticeable. Despite curly hair's inherent strength, it may lack moisture, resulting in dry, brittle strands and an uneven appearance.

When your hair is in poor condition, the best course of action is to moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. It's possible that the shampoo and conditioner you're using contain too many alkalis to be effective. I suggest researching the hair products you use, and if you're not seeing the desired results, consider switching to alternatives. You might even want to incorporate a weekly deep conditioner until you notice improvements in elasticity and bounce.

Another disadvantage of having 'hard' water is that you may spend a fortune at the salon getting your hair colored, permed, or straightened, only to come home and wash it in 'hard' water. This can cause the color to change, appear dull, or make your perm look as though it's 'fallen out.

You might also notice other problems such as dandruff or eczema of the scalp, discoloration or darkening of the hair, and dry, flaky skin. But take heart, there are many treatments available for both your hair and your water. A local water test doesn't cost a fortune; it can provide insight into the minerals present in your water, their concentrations, and suggestions on how to treat it. By addressing your hard water issues, you can hope to reverse some of the damage and prevent further mineral buildup.

So, the next time you visit the salon, rest assured that the beautiful hair color you've just invested in will remain luxurious, bouncy, and vibrant until your next appointment with your stylist.

By Susan | Updated May 23, 2024 | ©Hairfinder.com