According to available data, a significant portion of India’s population faces hard water issues, with many regions experiencing high levels of calcium and magnesium in their water supply. So, it’s safe to say that hair damage due to hard water is an issue that spans the country.
Hard water can cause many concerns, from rough and frizzy hair to extremely brittle hair. In fact, there are reports of high levels of minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron building up in the scalp and hair, further damaging it.
But don’t worry—hard water damage is reversible with the proper treatment, hair care routine, and preventive measures. If you are tired and worried about the quality of your hair, this AAYNA Clinic guide will come in handy.
What are the Signs of Hard Water Hair Damage?
Hard water contains excess dissolved minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and iron. But how do you identify if you are experiencing hair damage caused by hard water?
If you are experiencing one or multiple of the following complications, these are signs of hard water hair damage:
- Dryness and frizz—Hard water tends to strip the natural oils present in the hair and the follicles, leaving the hair rough and unmanageable.
- Uncontrolled hair fall – If you don’t have hypothyroidism but are suddenly experiencing a rise in hair fall, that is again a sign of potential hair damage.
- Scalp irritation – Hard water often leaves residue on the scalp, leading to dandruff and scalp infections that can cause itching and irritation.
- Brittle hair—If you notice a sudden fragility in your hair, where it is breaking and has many split ends, that’s again a sign of hard water hair damage.
- Improper cleansing—If you find it difficult to lather your shampoo, it is likely due to hard water residue reacting with the sulfate, preventing proper cleansing.
How to Treat Hard Water Hair Damage?
If your hair is already suffering from hard water damage, numerous ways exist to restore its health and vitality.
Some of the most effective ways include:
1. Using a Clarifying Shampoo
One of the most concerning issues with hard water hair damage is the deposition of minerals on the scalp and hair. If you don’t take proactive measures to address the mineral buildup, it can lead to scalp irritation and dandruff.
So, the best way around it is to use a clarifying shampoo once a week to cleanse the scalp and remove mineral accumulation deep. Also, ensure that you follow up this routine with a hydrating moisturiser to restore moisture in the scalp.
2. Rinse Hair with Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) or Lemon Juice
If you are looking for natural remedies to ward off the hair damage caused by hard water, rinsing the hair with apple cider vinegar or lemon juice is a great choice. ACV and lemon juice help break down mineral deposits and restore the natural pH balance of your scalp.
Here’s what you must do:
- Mix 2 tablespoons of ACV or lemon juice with a cup of distilled water.
- Pour it over your hair after shampooing.
- Leave it for 2-5 minutes, then rinse with normal water.
- Repeat once a week for best results.
3. Install a Shower Filter
Consider installing a shower filter or a water softener to prevent hard water hair damage in the long run. This addresses the concern at the root, ensuring that you won’t have to deal with the aftermath.
Installing these filters reduces mineral content before the water reaches your hair, preventing damage at the root cause.
Some of the best filter types you can consider installing are carbon filters, KDF filters, or Vitamin C filters. These are effective in neutralising hard water, eliminating bacteria and impurities, and also boosting hair health.
4. Use a Deep Conditioning Mask
One of the most horrifying symptoms of hard water hair damage is leaving your hair dry, frizzy and brittle. Deep conditioning is necessary if you touch your hair and feel incredibly rough. Hydrating masks come in handy for improving texture and strengthening hair.
Some of the best ingredients to look for in the mask are argan oil, coconut milk, shea butter, or keratin. These nourishing ingredients restore the hair’s shine, eliminate frizz, and repair damaged hair.
5. Consider Doing Oil Treatment before Washing
Applying oil before shampooing creates a protective barrier, reducing mineral buildup. So, a hot or cold oil massage on your scalp before you step inside the shower is a great way to protect the scalp and the hair.
For hair oil massage, you need to look for nourishing and skin-safe oils like coconut oil, olive oil, or argan oil.
How to Use:
- Massage warm oil into your scalp and hair.
- Leave it for 30-60 minutes before washing.
- Repeat twice a week for best results.
Not only will the oil protect the scalp before shower, it will also nourish and strengthen the hair follicles, preventing risks of damage and hair fall.
Are There Ways to Prevent Hard Water Hair Damage?
As the saying goes, “Prevention is always better than cure.” So, when it comes to hard water hair damage, it can be prevented before you consider treating it.
However, the first step to prevention is awareness. If you aren’t aware that you are dealing with hard water, chances are you won’t know there will be damage long before.
A few proactive steps you can take to minimise and prevent the hair damage inflicted by hard water are:
- If you live somewhere with extremely bad-quality water, consider using distilled or filtered water to rinse your hair.
- A water softener is the most effective long-term solution for households with very hard water. It effectively removes the calcium and magnesium from the hard water, keeping hair and scalp healthy.
- You can also apply leave-in conditioners, which form a protective layer, preventing hard water minerals from settling on your hair. For maximum benefits, look for conditioners formulated with silicones, keratin, or plant oils.
- Hard water already weakens your hair follicles, so if you don’t want to make things worse, avoid using excessive heat for hair styling. Even if you use hair styling tools, apply a heat protectant before styling.
- If you’re travelling or unable to install a filter, a shower or swim cap can help limit hard water exposure.
- To strengthen your hair follicles and reverse any potential damage, consider eating a hair-healthy diet with biotin-rich foods, omega-3 fatty acids, and protein sources.
Revive Your Hair with AAYNA Clinic!
If home remedies and preventive measures aren’t enough, it’s time to consult a specialist who will assess the extent of the damage and offer proactive measures and personalised treatment that address those concerns.
From scalp analysis to customised treatment plans, our dermatologists and specialists at AAYNA Clinic are here to address your unique scalp and hair needs.
From advanced scalp detox treatments to PRP therapy and hair fall solutions, our experienced dermatologists ensure your hair stays strong, shiny, and damage-free.
Visit our website or call us to book your appointment.
