Does hard water cause hair loss?

Hard water does not directly cause permanent hair loss or baldness (like genetic hair loss). However, to handle these issues there are PRP treatments which work best for hair regrowth.

In any case, the significant mineral load of hard water (mostly calcium and magnesium) can very well deteriorate the hair shaft to the extent that hair breaks off severely and the hair becomes quite thin, which people often confuse with actual hair loss from the roots. What deserves emphasis here is that the minerals are damaging the hair thread but not the follicle.

The Mechanism: How Hard Water Harms Hair

Hard water sabotages your hair health in two critical ways:

1. Mineral Buildup and Brittleness

After hard water dries, the calcium and magnesium ions are left on your hair and scalp.

Makes a Film: These minerals stick to the hair cuticle, thus creating a kind of tightly sticking, rough film or 'scum.' This remains on the hair shaft prevents the moisture from entering the hair shaft.

Lowered Strength: Experiments reveal that hair that is washed using hard water is less strong and elastic. The dehydrated, mineral-covered fibers not only lose their flexibility but also become brittle and snapable, which in turn leads to the observation of sudden or increased hair loss.

2. Scalp Blockage and Irritation

Mineral buildup is the deposition of matter not only on the hair strand but also on the scalp.

Washing Difficulties: Hard water interferes with shampoo, thus making the latter less effective in cleansing and lathering of the dirt, oil, and mineral deposits.

Inflammation Risk: This residue can block hair follicles and irritate the scalp, making the condition of dandruff getting worse or the occurrence of inflammation which in turn hinders the hair growth cycle and causes temporary shedding.

How to Combat Hard Water Hair Damage

There is indeed some hope for hair that has suffered from hard water, that is, the damage can be undone by shedding the buildup and shielding the hair.

Conclusion:

Even though hard water is not a factor in permanent hair loss, it is definitely capable of causing hair breakage, which, in turn, makes hair look thinner and drier. There is only one way to save your hair from losing its strength and volume, and that is continually treating it with chelating products and, preferably, filtering your water.

Quick FAQ

Is hard water damage permanent? 

Absolutely not. The damage is reversible, and the healthy hair growth can return once the mineral source is taken care of and proper hair treatment is applied.

What is the best product? 

Choose chelating shampoo that indicates EDTA or citric acid as an ‍‌‍‍‌‍‌‍‍‌ingredient.