Reference
Hard Water and Hair Damage
Hard water, characterized by high mineral content, can lead to significant hair damage, affecting its texture, strength, and appearance.
What is Hard Water?
Hard water is tap water that contains a high concentration of dissolved minerals, primarily calcium (Ca²⁺) and magnesium (Mg²⁺) ions. These minerals are picked up by water as it flows through geological formations like limestone and gypsum. The "hardness" of water is measured in grains per gallon (gpg) or milligrams per liter (mg/L), with water exceeding 7 gpg generally considered hard.
How Minerals Affect Hair
When hard water comes into contact with hair, the positively charged mineral ions bind to the negatively charged protein sites on the hair shaft. This creates a build-up that can lead to a range of issues.
Mechanisms of Hair Damage
Hard water
hard-waterhair-damagemineral-buildupwater-qualityhair-care