BENGALURU: With the shortage of river water and increasing usage of borewells, hard water, which has high mineral content of calcium and magnesium, is finding its way to our homes. The problem with this is that hard water can cause harm to your hair since the minerals create a scaly layer. As a result, moisture cannot enter the hair leading to dry, dull and tangly hair apart from the problem of dandruff. The natural question then is how does one save hair from the ill-effects of hard water? You could consider the following solutions.
Acidic Solutions
You can rinse your hair with vinegar as its acidity helps remove scaly build-up from your hair. It also balances the pH of your hair and smoothens the cuticles. You can use any vinegar but do not use balsamic vinegar. After shampooing, massage one tablespoon of vinegar mixed in three cups of water on to your hair. Leave it for couple of minutes and rinse. Like vinegar, the acidic nature of lemon juice will help remove build-up from your hair. Similar to the vinegar rinse, prepare a lemon rinse and post shampooing, let it sit for a couple of minutes before rinsing off. This rinse will add shine and lustre to your hair and the antiseptic properties of lemon reduces dandruff.
Water Softener
A water softener is expensive but it is a great way to solve hard water issues since it removes calcium and magnesium. It is especially useful when people have serious problems of the hair like eczema.
Shower Filter
A shower filter is cheaper than a water softener and can considerably reduce lime scale, chlorine and chemicals from hard water. There are many different types of shower filters available in the market that can be attached to your shower unit.
Bottled Water
Another option is to use bottled mineral or spring water for the final rinse. This, however, is not a wise idea as plastic bottles take long to recycle. An alternative is to use a jug of filtered water for the last rinse.
Rain Water
Rain water is a natural form of soft water which is very beneficial for the hair. The best part is that it costs nothing and can make your hair really soft and glossy. Of course, this is a seasonal solution.
Clarifying Shampoo
One of the most effective remedies to counter the effects of hard water is to use natural clarifying shampoo made with soapnut (reetha) and shikakai shampoo. It cleans the hair, adds volume and shine and makes hair feel thicker and smooth. Shampoos available in the market contain harsh chemicals and are best avoided.
Leave-in conditioners
Use of a leave-in conditioner can help. While it may not exactly counter the mineral film, it can help keep the hair frizz-free. A natural solution like argan oil will leave your hair shiny and totally moisturise dry hair.
(The author is co-founder of Le’ jeune Medspa)