Hair Wash Guide: Using Water Softener for Hair Wash

Hair wash is an important factor in maintaining the health and beauty of your hair. Washing the hair is a key component of your hair care routine as it leads to removal of dirt from the hair and scalp, and the shampoo and conditioner used during the hair wash help in keeping the hair smooth and silky. Washing the hair helps in preventing scalp conditions like dandruff and dryness and the hair products used for hair wash, not only clean the hair but also improve its texture and appearance. 

When we think of hair wash, we commonly think of the frequency of the wash and the hair products used for washing the hair, but did you know that the quality of the water used for washing the hair is equally important? Hard water and soft water have different effects on different types of hair, which is why questions like ‘Does water hardness affect hair growth?’, ‘Will a water softener improve my hair?’, and ‘how is using a water softener for hair wash important for hair beauty?’ are worth pondering on, for adopting the correct way to wash the hair. Here we give the answers to these questions and guide you about the use of a water softener for hair wash.

Benefits of a Water Softener for Hair Growth

A water softener removes calcium and magnesium from water, changing it to soft water which is good for the hair. 

Soft water requires lesser soap and less rinsing, due to which the hair colour and overall quality can be maintained for a longer time.

Soft water helps in balancing the pH level.

The signs of hard water on hair include tangling and breakage, frizziness, dullness, a dry scalp and thinning of hair, which means washing the hair with hard water has these effects on the hair and scalp.

So, does water hardness affect hair growth? Yes, washing the hair with hard water for a long time, can have long-term effects on hair growth and quality, and hard water has been found to cause hair loss.

Using a clarifying shampoo, moisturizing masks and leave-in conditioners can help in protecting the hair from hard water damage. However, one of the best ways to protect hair from hard water is to use a water softener for hair wash.

“Will a water softener improve my hair?”, you may ask. Yes, it would be good to use a water softener for hair growth, as washing the hair with soft water helps avoid the adverse effects of hard water, such as hair thinning, breakage and hair loss. Soft water is also helpful in preventing dryness of the hair and scalp and it keeps the hair smooth. So, a water softener, which softens the water you are using for hair wash, would in turn improve your hair texture, and also promote good hair growth by preventing hair fall and breakage.

Is a salt water softener good for your hair? A salt-based water softener should be used if the hardness levels of your water are very high. A salt-free softener is good for a hardness level below 80 grains per gallon. You can get a water quality test kit to measure the hardness of the water you use or check the water quality report from the water authorities. Based on the degree of hardness, you should decide whether to buy a salt water softener or opt for a salt-free water softener. 

A salt-based water softener works on the principle of ion exchange, wherein sodium ions are exchanged for the hardness-causing minerals, thus turning the hard water into soft water. Salt water softeners can prove to be good for the hair as they actually remove the hardness of water and soften the water, while salt-free water softeners only condition the water.

Thus you can see that soft water is definitely beneficial for the hair, as hard water can cause hair and scalp problems and hamper the texture of hair. This is exactly why you should consider using a water softener so that you can protect your tresses from the harmful effects of hard water. If you hadn’t paid attention to the water quality, now that you know how it affects hair health, check the hardness your water supply and get a water softener accordingly. Using soft water on the hair will have long-term effects on its health and texture and help you get smooth and shiny hair, while also helping against frizziness, tangling and breakage.

This article was for informational purposes about using a water softener for hair wash, but for expert guidance on hair wash and the type of water that is ideal for use on the hair, it is good to consult a dermatologist. He will give you reliable advice on how the hardness or softness of water affects hair health and what measures to take so as to ensure a good hair wash and proper hair care. One of the best places to approach for any query about hair care and maintenance, is HairMD. It is a hair transplant centre in Pune with a team of experienced dermatologists who specialize in treating hair conditions. With their advice on hair treatments and hair care, you will surely be able to attain long and beautiful locks and flaunt your crowning glory.