Stop hard water ruining your curly hair

Curly hair is particularly sensitive to environmental factors, including the type of water you wash it with. Hard water can have a significant and often negative impact on curly hair.

Understanding the effects of hard water and how to counteract them can help you keep your curls healthy, bouncy, and vibrant.

Right, so what is hard water?

Hard water is water that contains high levels of minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium. These minerals are naturally occurring and are picked up by water as it percolates through limestone and chalk deposits in the ground. In contrast, soft water has fewer mineral deposits and is generally considered better for hair washing because it does not leave behind mineral residues.

How to spot hard water

You might have hard water if you notice:

• A build-up of scale around faucets and drains.

• Soap and shampoo don’t lather well, and rinsing feels less effective.

• Dishes and glassware have spots after cleaning.

• Clothes look dull and feel harsh after washing.

For curly hair, you may notice your hair becoming dull, tangled, and stiff. It may feel as if there’s a residue that you can’t wash out, and your curls lose their bounce and elasticity.

Effects of hard water on curly hair

The minerals in hard water can build up on the surface of hair strands, creating a film that leaves curls limp, lifeless, and difficult to style. This buildup can also block moisture from penetrating the hair shaft, leading to increased dryness and breakage. Additionally, hard water can disrupt the pH balance of your scalp, leading to irritation and dandruff.

How to protect your curls from hard water

1. Install a water softener:

The most comprehensive solution is to treat the water in your home with a water softener system. These systems remove excess minerals from your water supply, providing softer water that is kinder to your curls. I use a filter in my shower like this one that is easy to attach and cost effective. 

2. Use a clarifying shampoo:

Regular use of a clarifying shampoo can help remove mineral build-up from your curls. The Crown Curly Shampoo is designed to gently cleanse curly hair while effectively removing hard water deposits without stripping natural oils.

3. Chelating shampoos:

For severe hard water effects, chelating shampoos are designed specifically to bind with minerals and remove them from the hair. These shampoos are stronger than regular clarifying shampoos and should be used sparingly to avoid drying out your hair.

4. Rinse with distilled or bottled water:

If you live in an area with extremely hard water and notice ongoing issues, consider doing your final rinse with distilled or bottled water. This can help prevent mineral deposits from settling on your hair after washing.

5. Regular deep conditioning:

Increase your hair’s resilience against hard water by incorporating more deep conditioning treatments into your hair care routine. Moisturising deep conditioners such as the Clever Curl Treatment can help replenish hydration and nourish your curls, combating the drying effects of mineral buildup.

Hard water doesn’t have to spell disaster for your curly hair. By understanding how to manage the effects, you can keep your curls as beautiful and vibrant as ever. 

Looking for more curly hair tips and tricks? 

Check out more of our advice here.

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