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In 2024, brands have started to zero in on how hard water is affecting our hair andscalp.

Image of the back of a woman’s head while she’s washing her hair with shampoo suds on her hands.

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Is this just a new marketing angle or are the effects something we should seriously worry about?

What is hard water?

In its pure state, water tends to be soft.

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The more traces of these dissolved minerals the harder your water.

It doesnt stop there.

Its a more serious issue in industrial configs where they cant have that scale forming in pipes.

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(Soft water, in comparison, creates more bubbles and lathers more easily.)

You might also be able to tell just by how your hair feels and looks.

Is hard water safe?

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Its really just about convenience and aesthetics.

How does hard water affect your hair?

Secondly, it can weigh down the hair and make it look dull.

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This lasting damage is the biggest concern.

How does hard water affect your scalp?

When you frequently suds up with hard water, minerals can also build up on your scalp.

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How does hard water affect your hair color?

Hard water has the most noticeable effect on hair color.

During peak travel seasons, this is especially common.

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They’ve got a lot of buildup on their hair.

Their color isnt as vibrant and it can look a little brassy.

Thats when you know they were spending time in a place with hard water.

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The dulling isnt just limited to blondes.

Perry calls the Olaplex treatment hairdresser insurance.

Does hard water cause hair loss?

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One of the most frequent questions about hard water: Does it cause hair loss?

The simple answer is no.

Oftentimes, hair breakage can be mistaken for hair loss.

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Then theres the recently debutedAfina A-01 filter.

A majority of these options offer a subscription service that sends you filter replacements every 90 days.

Which one you choose depends on how hard your water is.

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Here are a few expert-recommended products that can help combat the effects of hard water.

Olaplex

Olaplex No.

I love it because its sulfate-free, non-stripping, and keeps your hair color shiny and vibrant.

A bonus: castor oil and shea butter help add moisture back to your hair.

In addition to ACV, the rinse also contains the chelating ingredient, disodium EDTA.

Moroccanoil

Moroccanoil Clarifying Shampoo

Moisturizing and deep-cleaning, this is another one of Dr. Okerekes top picks.

If you do have hair and skin issues, its also important not to jump to conclusions.

Hard water might play a small part, or no part at all.

Maybe youre not shampooing your hair properly.

Or maybe you have dandruff or rosacea, says Garren.

it’s crucial that you address these conditions with a doctor before blaming it all on the water.

More ways to keep your hair healthy.

Now watch how to remove unwanted calcium build-up on your hair.