The Effects of Hard Water on Hair and Skin

If you consistently struggle with dry, brittle skin or hair, you might assume the products you use are to blame. However, your water may actually be the real culprit. Hard water, which is caused by high concentrations of calcium and magnesium, often significantly affects both skin and hair. Addressing your home’s hard water with either a salt-based or salt-free water softening system contributes to major improvements to not only your skin and hair but also your plumbing fixtures and appliances. 

 

 

What Is Hard Water?

Hard water is extremely prevalent across the United States, with at least 85% of homeowners experiencing it to some level. Both city and well water sources are affected. Hard water occurs when groundwater picks up calcium and magnesium minerals as it percolates through limestone, chalk, gypsum, and dolomite deposits. Though these minerals are essential nutrients, they can create big problems for skin and hair (as well as plumbing fixtures and appliances) when they accumulate. 

The Impact of Hard Water on Hair

Washing hair with hard water tends to leave hair feeling excessively dry and brittle. This occurs because excess calcium and magnesium minerals strip away natural oils. Without these oils, hair becomes more susceptible to split ends and breakage, resulting in lackluster hair. Hard water also leaves the scalp feeling dry and flaky, which can cause dandruff and itchiness. Those with color-treated hair may also notice their color fade and lose vibrancy prematurely. 

Aside from stripping away oils, the minerals in hard water may leave behind a residue that makes hair feel heavier and stickier. This is especially cause for concern for those with fine or thinning hair since these minerals weigh down hair and diminish volume. With shampoos unable to fully lather (hard water also impacts soap’s ability to fully froth), hair becomes more difficult to clean. 

The Impact of Hard Water On Skin

There are several signs of hard water on the skin to look for. Just like with hair, hard water leaves skin deprived of natural oils, resulting in noticeably dry skin. Lingering residue also clogs pores, which can increase the likelihood or severity of breakouts. Because hard water interferes with the skin’s ability to absorb or retain moisture, skincare products may become less effective. This can contribute to premature aging since natural oils lock in moisture, which is crucial for retaining skin’s elasticity and resilience. Long-term exposure to hard water is especially problematic for those with eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis. As the skin becomes more dry and sensitive, individuals with these skin conditions may find it harder to manage their symptoms. 

Why Does Hard Water Affect Skin and Hair?

Hard water has a higher pH level than “soft” water. This means hard water is more alkaline than soft water and has a higher capacity to neutralize acids. Acid is actually very important to both skin and hair health. The skin’s natural acid mantle serves as a protective barrier that preserves moisture and blocks harmful bacteria. The scalp and hair cuticle layer also thrive in a slightly acidic environment. So, hard water disrupts these barriers, making both hair and skin more prone to damage. 

How to Treat Hard Water

Whether you have mild or severe hard water, you’ll need either a salt-based water softener or a salt-free alternative to treat your home’s water. Both of these systems are highly effective in combating hard water and reducing its effects, including those impacting your hair and skin. After installing either of these systems, customers may see an improvement in hair texture and appearance within a few weeks. 

 

 

Our Whole House Salt-Free Water Softener is another hard water scale treatment option. This system uses Template Assisted Crystallization (TAC) to alter mineral structure. This process doesn’t reduce or remove minerals but rather alters their structure to prevent particles from sticking together to form scale buildup. 

Kind Water’s Smart Metered Salt-Based Water Softener uses a process called ion exchange to replace calcium and magnesium ions with sodium ions, almost completely removing the presence of these minerals from water. With mineral levels greatly reduced, hard water scale cannot form.