THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN WATER AND YOUR HAIR PART 2
In the previous post we covered the different ways in which drinking water can benefit your hair. So be sure to stay hydrated if you want to avoid any common hair problems like breakage, dry scalp, and frizz.
Given that water can help your hair from the inside out, it also has the power to affect it from the exterior barrier as well. Things like water temperature and PH balance can all affect your hair health, so keep on reading to find out how.
Does Water Temperature Matter?
Okay, we’ve all heard it before. “Wash your hair in cold water!” “Avoid rinsing your hair with hot water!” Is this true?
For starters, water temperature is important when It comes to your locks. Hot water has gotten a bad rep, but did you know that it actually helps remove dirt and buildup a lot easier? The temperature of the water dissolves particles, while also opening up the hair cuticle and the pores on your scalp, allowing products to absorb easier.
However, If you wash and rinse your hair with water that is too hot, it can strip your hair of its shine and lead to dryness, frizziness, and even hair loss. It can also worsen existing scalp problems like dandruff. Essentially your locks get stripped of their natural moisture barrier.
When it comes to cold water, it also either make or break your hair. Unlike hot water, the cold temperature closes your hair cuticle and makes it feel and look a lot smoother. It also locks in moisture, instead of stripping it.
While many, if not most of us want smoother and healthy looking hair, washing and rinsing excessively with cold water can also lead to damage. Too much moisture in the hair can actually be a bad thing and lead to an oily scalp, while also leaving your hair flat.
So, ultimately it is best to wash your hair with lukewarm water and rinse with cold water the last few seconds during your shower.
What about PH Balance? What even is PH balance?
When it comes to washing our hair and skin, the waters PH balance might not be the first thing that comes to mind, even though it may have more impact that you think. PH balance which stands for “potential hydrogen,” basically measures how acidic or basic something is.
When it comes to the locks on your head, water with a high pH balance also known as hard water, can cause damage. Hard water contains higher concentration levels of calcium and magnesium, which can make your hair susceptible to being frangible and causing more breakage, frizz, and hair loss.
Signs You May Have Hard Water
Not being able to create a lather while shampooing or using soap
Feeling like you have to use an excessive amount of shampoo
Low water pressure
Itchy and dry scalp
Brittle and frizzy hair
Excessive hair fallout