Living in an area with hard water without a water softener can lead to mineral build-up, affecting your hair and skin. This build-up may cause issues such as dandruff, itchy scalp, dull hair, and dry or itchy skin. It's important to note that this information is not meant for diagnosing or treating any conditions, and consulting a dermatologist is recommended if you experience skin discomfort or hair loss.
What Does Hard Water Do?
Hard water leads to a white scaly residue on faucets, sinks, and bathtubs, and similarly affects the scalp, hair, and skin, impacting their health and appearance. If untreated, the minerals can alter hair color and damage hair follicles, resulting in fragile hair and shedding.
I recently moved into a rental home in Texas, where the water is extremely hard. Upon arrival, I discovered my kitchen faucet in a concerning state, making me uneasy about using the water for washing hands, cleaning dishes, or drinking.
Effects on Scalp & Hair
Scalp feels dry and itchy with dandruff or flakes.
Breakouts and clogged follicles on the scalp.
Hair grows slower and finer than usual.
Dry, dull hair without shine, and lacks volume.
Feels grimey or sticky, with thick residue that you can't wash off.
Curly hair doesn't curl well, looks stiff and frizzy.
Hair color appears darker than usual.
Blonde hair imparts a greenish tinge.
Hair lacks volume, movement, and shine.
Remove Hard Mineral Build-up Naturally!
There is an effective way to remove mineral build-up using natural, edible ingredients commonly used in canning fermented foods: demineralization! This method benefits both your kitchen and hair with immediate results, and you can safely try it at home with simple precautions, especially if you have sensitive skin.
You'll need:
Citric Acid (powder)
Vitamin C (powder)
Shampoo (clarifying is best, but any kind works)
Dish soap (for use on faucets or shower head)
Gloves
Directions:
This treatment doesn't have an exact recipe, but it's effective for me and my salon clients. Expect a sulfur-like smell due to the treatment's reaction with hard minerals—this is normal and indicates it's working!
Hair
Mix 5 grams each of vitamin C and citric acid into 1/2 cup of shampoo. Apply to wet hair, thoroughly massaging the scalp and hair, then cover with a processing cap or cling wrap to maintain moisture.
After leaving the treatment for 2-3 hours, shampoo your hair. Instead of conditioner, I prefer applying a light oil like almond or jojoba on wet hair. For chemically damaged hair, opt for a heavier oil such as marula oil.
You can safely use this treatment 2x week until the residue is fully removed. Then repeat 2-3x month to prevent build-up.
Kitchen
Mix dish soap in a bowl with 2-3 grams each of vitamin C and citric acid in a bowl until dissolved. Wearing gloves, apply the mixture to the area you’re cleaning, cover with cling wrap, and wait 30 minutes. Rinse with water. Repeat if residue remains.
Improve Your Hair Color!
Removing mineral build-up can significantly enhance your hair color and prevent unwanted tones, especially in blonde hair. While some suggest using vitamin C to lighten hair, I believe it doesn't truly lighten but rather makes hair appear lighter by eliminating the build-up that dulls its color.
In-salon Services
For optimal hair color results, I suggest using a vitamin C and citric acid mask before applying herbal color, including henna, or chemical dyes. This treatment is essential for clients seeking blonde herbal color, as it ensures a brighter outcome and prevents unwanted hues from mineral build-up. Always consult with your stylist to see if this is suitable for your hair.
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