What Hard Water Does to Your Hair and How to Fix It
If your hair has been feeling dry, dull, or just not cooperating lately, the issue might not be your products or your routine. It could be your water.
At Moef Salon, we see it all the time. Hard water is one of the most common and overlooked causes of buildup, dryness, and even color fading. And unfortunately, if you live in Southern California or many other parts of the country, your water is probably harder than you think.
What Is Hard Water?
Hard water is water that contains a high concentration of minerals, especially calcium and magnesium. While it’s not harmful to your health, it can seriously mess with your hair.
When you wash your hair in hard water, those minerals cling to the hair shaft and build up over time. This buildup acts like a barrier, blocking out moisture and weighing your hair down.
Signs Your Hair Is Affected by Hard Water
• Your hair feels dry or straw-like no matter how much conditioner you use
• Your blonde is turning brassy or your color is fading faster than it should
• Your scalp feels itchy or irritated
• Your hair looks dull or coated
• Your shampoo doesn’t lather well
• You notice more breakage or tangles
Sound familiar? You’re definitely not alone.
How to Fix It
The good news is there are simple ways to combat hard water and protect your hair.
1. Use a Clarifying or Chelating Shampoo (Occasionally)
These shampoos are designed to break down mineral buildup and remove residue. But don’t overdo it. Once a week or twice a month is usually enough to keep buildup in check without drying your hair out.
2. Install a Shower Filter
A showerhead filter can drastically reduce the amount of minerals that hit your hair and skin. It’s an easy, affordable fix that can make a big difference in how your hair behaves. I personally use the Sproos Shower filter in my shower at home, they come in fun colors and send you new filters every 3 months! They’re reasonably priced but also there’s tons of shower filters on the market just do your research.
3. Book a Salon Detox Treatment
At Moef Salon, we offer deep-cleansing treatments that remove hard water buildup and restore your hair’s shine and softness. These are especially helpful before a color service so your hair can absorb pigment evenly.
4. Use Products Made for Hard Water
We can recommend salon-quality shampoos, conditioners, and leave-ins that help shield your hair from mineral buildup and protect your color.
We’re Here to Help
If you suspect your water might be affecting your hair, bring it up during your next visit. We can assess what’s going on and recommend a customized plan to get your hair feeling soft, healthy, and balanced again.
Have questions or want to book a detox service? Let’s chat. At Moef Salon, healthy hair always comes first.