When people think about protecting their hair they are usually concerned with the shampoos, conditioners, and other treatments they are applying to their hair. They rarely consider the water that they shower in every single day. This is a big mistake. The water you wash your hair in can make a big difference in the health and appearance of your hair.

What is Hard Water?

Water with an exceptionally high mineral content is known as hard water. While it may actually be beneficial for your health when used as drinking water, it can have detrimental effects in other areas. Hard water can form mineral buildups that may clog plumbing and create films on the surfaces of shower doors and sinks. You might notice the effect of hard water when you remove your dishes from the dishwasher and see white buildup left behind on them.

The Effect It Has on Hair

The calcium and magnesium in hard water are the main culprits behind many water-related hair problems. The minerals can buildup in your hair and leave behind a filmy effect. It may also create a rough texture that makes it easier for your hair to tangle. Dyed hair may fade more quickly in hard water as well thanks to those minerals. After an extended period of mineral buildup, that film on your hair can keep out moisture and leave you with dry and frizzy locks. 

 

How to Protect Your Hair 

Luckily, there are ways to keep your hair in good condition when you find yourself stuck with hard water.

Vinegar is a multi-purpose tool that most people have in their homes. Its acidity makes it a perfect solution for hair damaged by hard water. Add a tablespoon of vinegar to three cups of water and soak your hair with it. Rinse it out thoroughly after a few minutes. The acidic vinegar helps remove the mineral film from your hair and gives it a soft and shiny appearance. This can be done using regular vinegar or apple cider vinegar. The only caveat is that you cannot do this more than once per week or you risk drying out your hair even more.

If you want to get rid of the hard water entirely, then you can purchase a water softener. This is a more expensive alternative, but it does solve the problem permanently. Water softeners remove the excess minerals from the water and prevent buildup from occurring.

The choice you make to protect your hair from hard water is up to you and your budget. Whichever option you go with, your hair will thank you.