Can Hard Water Cause Hair Loss?

Hard water does not cause hair loss initially. However, if you use hard water for a long time, you will notice your hair becoming dry, frizzy, brittle, and breaking easily. 

You could lose hair over time if you don’t fix your hard water issue. 

Here’s what hard water actually does to your hair:

• Mineral buildup makes hair dry and dull
• Soaks up all the moisture
• Scalp irritation
• Hair thinning over time
• Shampoo and conditions stop working

You might be wondering if there’s a way to fix this issue. Well, there totally is! 

• Install a water softener to reduce mineral levels. 
• Use chelating or clarifying shampoos to restore hair health.
• Try home remedies for a natural solution. 
• Install a showerhead filter to strain out the minerals. 
• Experiment with different washing methods for effectiveness.

These are pretty much everything you can do to solve your hair issues. Let’s get into more detail on how hard water causes hair loss problems.

Related Article: 5 Best Water Softener Systems for Your Hom

How Does Hard Water Cause Hair Loss?

Whatever the hard water consists of, the problem is that it ruins both hair and skin. After a certain time, you can see how bad hard water is for your hair.

You can spot stains on appliances easily, but hair damage from hard water takes longer to notice. Often, we blame other factors instead of realizing hard water could be the issue.

That’s why we will see what hard water actually does to our hair. 

1. Mineral Buildup on Scalp and Hair

Hard water is full of calcium and magnesium. These two minerals do not completely dissolve in water. As time goes by, these minerals gather on the hair shaft and scalp. 

It looks like a pile of stubborn residue. This buildup can make your hair feel rough. Whenever you care for your hair, it feels heavy and difficult to manage. It impacts hair follicles and the scalp. 

These are:

• Mineral deposits can clog hair follicles
• Your hair growth becomes slower
• The buildup prevents moisture from penetrating the scalp
• Your scalps become itchy and dry
• Minerals coat the hair cuticle.
• Your gets less flexible and more prone to breakage.

2. Alteration of Hair Texture and Strength

Hard water can even mess up hair texture. Over time, hard water affects hair porosity and elasticity. You won’t see these changes overnight, but the water is actually causing damage to the hair. 

These changes look like this:

• Hair cuticles have a negative charge, creating friction.
• It becomes more porous and prone to absorbing excess minerals
• Hair feels rough, frizzy hair, and difficult to style
• Hair loses its natural bounce
• Mineral deposits make it brittle
• Calcium and magnesium weaken protein bonds
• Dry, brittle hair develops split ends
• Hair thickness goes away

3. Scalp Health Implications

If your scalp is feeling itchy and dry with flaky bits, it might be because of hard water. 

The reason? Hard water can really mess with your scalp’s natural oils. So when you scratch, you might notice some white stuff under your nails.

You will also see these things:

• Mineral buildup can cause scalp irritation
• Reduce natural oils
• Likely to have dandruff or itchiness
• Lack of moisture can cause scalp tightness and discomfort
• Overstimulate or suppress sebum production
• Oily or overly dry scalp
• Ruin scalp pH balance
• The potential risk of inflammation and scalp conditions

Relatable Reads: Top 5 Benefits of Installing a Water Softener in New Jersey Homes

Signs Your Hair Is Affected by Hard Water

If you need a clearer sign to believe that your hair problem is coming from hard water, we will show you.

Scientific Perspectives on Hard Water and Hair Loss

• A 2018 study found that people living in areas with hard water and using it daily might be more likely to have atopic dermatitis (AD). It can even show up on the scalp. [Source: PubMed]
• A study on 15 female hairs, where their hairs were mixed with both hard water and distilled water, showed no difference in tensile strength, surprisingly. [Source: PubMed | Effects of Hard Water on Hair]
• A study from 2011 found that the minerals in hard water can impact the way hair is structured. [Source: PubMed | The structural implications of water hardness metal uptake by human hair]
• A group of 70 guys from Pakistan gave their hair samples, and it turned out their hair was getting brittle and breaking easily. This happens due to hard water. [Source: PubMed]

👉 Request your free water test with NJ Water Systems today!

Solutions to Mitigate Hard Water Effects

Enough with the problems; let’s find the solution. 

Fortunately, several immediate remedies and long-term strategies can tackle hair problems caused by hard water. These solutions are inexpensive to some extent and work effectively if followed religiously.

Immediate Remedies

1. Chelating Shampoos

Function and Benefits:

• Chelating shampoos contain agents like EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid).
• It removes minerals, chlorine, and other impurities from hair and scalp.
• The shampoo penetrates deeper than just the hair's surface.
• They help restore hair’s natural softness, shine, and manageability by removing buildup.

Recommended Products and Usage Guidelines:

• Popular chelating shampoos include Malibu C Hard Water Wellness Shampoo, Ouidad Water Works Clarifying Shampoo, and Paul Mitchell Shampoo Three.
• Use chelating weekly or biweekly based on mineral buildup and hair type.
• Follow with a deep conditioner to prevent excessive dryness.

2. Clarifying Treatments

Role in Removing Mineral Buildup:

• Clarifying treatments deeply cleanse the hair and scalp
• It removes excess minerals, dirt, and product residue
• They help prevent dullness and dryness caused by hard water

Frequency and Application Tips:

• Use a clarifying shampoo every 1-2 weeks based on hair texture and buildup severity.
• Excessive use of clarifying shampoos can strip natural oils and cause dryness.
• Deep condition after each use to replenish moisture.
  

3. Natural Rinses

Use of Apple Cider Vinegar and Lemon Rinses:

• Apple cider vinegar (ACV) and lemon juice help dissolve mineral deposits while balancing scalp pH.
• It breaks down buildup from hard water.
• They restore shine, smoothness, and overall hair health.

DIY Recipes and Precautions:

⚠️ Precautions: Limit use to once a week to prevent excessive dryness or irritation. Always dilute apple cider vinegar or lemon to avoid scalp sensitivity. If you experience any discomfort, stop immediately.

Long-Term Strategies

We're not just going for quick fixes here. There are ways to really get rid of those hard metals in your water. It'll turn hard water into soft, drinkable water. These solutions will last you a long time!

1. Water Softening Systems

[Get Water Softener Systems in New Jersey]

Overview of Whole-House Water Softeners:

These systems reduce any hard water problem you're having. It uses ion exchange technology to remove calcium and magnesium ions from the water supply. These systems replace hard minerals in sodium and potassium. It will soften the water before it reaches your shower.

Pros and Cons:

Installation: Best for homeowners looking for a permanent solution.

2. Showerhead Filters

[Source: Filtered Showerheads | NBC Select]

Benefits of Filtered Showerheads:

• Affordable and easy-to-install alternative to whole-house softeners.
• Reduces chlorine, calcium, and magnesium levels in water.
• Improves hair softness and scalp health over time.
• Maintain the natural balance and moisture levels of the skin and hair.
• Prevent scalp irritation and dryness.
• Reduce gunky buildup
• Combat allergies and rashes

Top-Rated Products and Maintenance Advice:

• Popular options: AquaBliss High Output Revitalizing Shower Filter, Culligan WSH-C125, and Sprite HO2-WH-M Universal Shower Filter.
• Maintenance: Replace filters every 3 to 6 months, depending on water quality and usage. Clean the showerhead thoroughly at least once a month. 

3. Alternative Washing Methods

Washing Hair with Distilled or Filtered Water:

• Use distilled or filtered water for the final rinse.
• Some people use a spray bottle of filtered water to rinse their hair after a shower.
• It can help prevent mineral deposits from forming on hair.
• It improves hair texture and appearance
• Distilled water is gentle on the hair and scalp
• These methods make hair soft and smooth
• It helps retain the natural oils of strands
• Hair colors won’t fade away

Practicality and Effectiveness:

• Distilled water can be inconvenient for some
• This method may not be a practical solution for everyone
• A more practical approach is to install a water softener or shower filter for easier daily use.

Preventative Hair Care Practices

You can follow some of the hair care routines to make your hair healthy or at least to look put together. These styling tips sure help you make your hair look good. 

1. Protective Styling

Here are a few techniques to minimize hair exposure to hard water:

• Use a waterproof shower cap while taking a bath. It will protect your hair from frequent exposure to hard water minerals.
• Rinse your hair with distilled or filtered water after washing your hair with hard water. It will reduce mineral buildup on hair.0
• Apply a thin layer of leave-in conditioner or oil before washing. This will act as a barrier against mineral absorption.

How about we suggest styles that reduce hair manipulation and breakage? Try these:

• Loose braids, buns, and twists to protect hair from excessive washing and manipulation.
• Box braids, cornrows, and wigs shield hair from hard water exposure.
• Wrapping hair at night with silk or satin scarves and bonnets reduces friction.

2. Moisture Retention Strategies

3. Regular Scalp Maintenance

• It removes calcium and magnesium deposits from hard water.
• Exfoliation unclogs hair follicles and balances scalp pH.
• Regular exfoliation reduces flakes caused by mineral irritation.

Protect Your Hair & Skin – Get a Water Softener Today!

Hard water can leave your hair dry, brittle, and prone to breakage. If you're experiencing hair thinning or scalp irritation, your water quality could be the culprit. NJ Water Systems offers expert water testing and high-quality water softener solutions to keep your hair healthy, soft, and strong. Book a free consultation today!

📍 Visit us or schedule your free water test now!

Frequently Asked Questions: Hard Water and Hair Loss

How can I test if my water is hard?

• Store brought test strips
• Home water testing kit
• Checking with the local water supplier
• Simple DIY test

Are there specific hair types that are more affected by hard water?

Yes, hair that is curly, porous, and chemically treated is prone to hard water damage.

What are the best products to protect hair from hard water?

Good quality chelating shampoos, clarifying shampoos, and leave-in conditioners can reduce the effects of hard water.

Can hard water affect hair coloring treatments?

Yes, hard water minerals interfere with color absorption. They cause uneven shades, dullness, and a brassy or greenish tint in the hair.

Is installing a water softener worth the investment?

A water softener system is the ultimate solution for hard water problems. It improves hair and skin health and reduces mineral buildup in pipes. It is a good long-term investment.