The term “Water hardness” is a chemical parameter determined by the amount of minerals dissolved in the water, especially magnesium and calcium. When the amount of these minerals is high, it is called hard water; on the other hand, when the amount of these minerals is low, it is called soft water. Finding out if your home has hard water might be simpler than you thought. A quick and easy way to know if your home has hard water is by looking at the glasses, silverware or shower taps in your home. If these have white spots, it means that the water in your home is hard.
Hard water, which contains excessive minerals like calcium and magnesium, can have adverse effects on your skin and hair. People living in areas with high water hardness often experience skin irritation, dryness, and an itchy scalp. Washing your hair with hard water can lead to dry, brittle strands and irritated skin, making it essential to consider water filtration solutions.
How Hard Does Water Cause Hair Problems?
Water quality has a significant impact on hair health. The main trigger is hard water, which contains high levels of mineral salts such as calcium and magnesium, and can affect hair in several ways:
1. Mineral Accumulation:When hard water combines with shampoo and/or conditioner, it can create a film on the scalp and hair fibers. This film acts as a barrier, preventing the shampoo from effectively cleaning away dirt and oil. This buildup contributes to increased oily residue, especially at the roots.
2. Scalp Irritation:The minerals found in hard water can irritate the scalp, especially in people with sensitive skin. This irritation can trigger an inflammatory response, leading to increased oil production in an attempt to soothe the scalp. This results in a continuous cycle of irritation and excess oil.
3. Dry and Brittle Hair:Despite its name, hard water can cause dryness in your hair by leaving a mineral film that prevents your hair from absorbing necessary moisture. This can result in dry, brittle hair fibers that break easily.
How Does Hard Water Affect Your Skin?
Hard water, which is rich in minerals like calcium and magnesium, doesn’t just impact your hair and scalp but can also have several adverse effects on your skin. The high mineral content often leaves residues that can clog pores, leading to dryness, irritation, and exacerbate skin conditions such as eczema or acne. Additionally, hard water can strip your skin of its natural oils, resulting in a rough, itchy texture. The buildup of mineral deposits from hard water can also make it difficult to rinse off soap and cleanser completely, leaving behind a film that further irritates the skin.
How to Combat the Effects of Hard Water
If you think hard water may cause your greasy hair (or other hair problems), consider installing a shower filter. These filters are designed to absorb and remove chlorine, limescale, and impurities, preventing them from reaching your hair. Even rinsing your hair with water from a typically filtered pitcher can make a noticeable difference to your hair's health. Both options are valid, we have tested them and they work.
How to Manage and Treat Hard Water
A whole house water filtration system is the best solution for removing harsh minerals such as calcium and magnesium from your water supply. These filters are designed to absorb and remove chlorine, limescale, and impurities, preventing them from reaching your hair.
If you want more information about water filters, you can contact our technical team here and they will advise you without any obligation.