Hard water damage to hair and scalp

Shampoos, conditioners, and the overlooked factor: THE WATER

Shampoos and conditioners are often tailored to specific hair types, conditions, or traits, which is not inherently a bad thing. However, they frequently overlook a critical factor in hair care routines: the water used to wash your hair.

If you live in Europe or America, there’s an 85% chance you’re washing your hair in hard water.

This is significant because hard water can counteract the nourishing and beneficial ingredients in your shampoo or conditioner.

The impact of hard water on hair and scalp

Hard water contains high levels of dissolved minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium ions, which are absorbed as water flows through rocks and soil rich in these compounds.

While hard water is not harmful to human health, it can cause several issues, including reduced soap efficiency and dryness or damage to hair and skin.

The minerals in hard water can bond to your hair strands, creating a barrier that prevents nurturing product ingredients from penetrating. This leaves your hair feeling dull, dry, and weighed down due to mineral buildup on the hair and scalp.

How to tell if your water is ‘hard’

There are several signs of hard water in your home:

• White, crusty buildup on shower walls, sinks, or faucets
• Limescale deposits in electric kettles or coffee machines
• Calcified pipes or components in your washing machine
• Stiff laundry or spotty dishes, caused by residual mineral deposits
• Difficulty in getting soap to lather and rinse out properly

If you suspect you have hard water but are unsure, contact your local water supplier to inquire about the water quality in your area.