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Dry Scalp: What Your Shampoo Can’t Do
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Updated: February 23, 2023 January 10, 2019
Experiencing dry, itchy scalp? Your shampoo might not be able to help. From dandruff and dry hair to psoriasis and dermatitis, it’s time to get to the root of your hair problems – your water. If your water is hard, the harsh minerals can reverse the cleansing effects of your shampoo and conditioner. This can leave you with dirty, damaged hair and an irritated scalp. So, how can you treat dry scalp? Here’s everything you should know about how to fix a dry scalp caused by hard water.
Cold weather, hair dye, and excess heat treatments are some of the most common causes of dry, itchy scalp. These conditions can lead to dandruff, scalp psoriasis, and eczema. But, one of the leading causes of itchy scalp often goes overlooked – water. This includes both the hardness and pH of your water supply. The two go hand in hand, as the pH of your water can determine the amount of the hard minerals your hair will pick up.
Hard water is saturated with high levels of calcium and magnesium. These hard minerals can leave a layer of film on the surface of your skin when mixed with soaps, shampoos, and conditioners. Unfortunately, this means that your hair-washing may be counteractive. Rather than removing dirt and bacteria, excess calcium and magnesium can leave a film of scum on your hairline. The hard water film can cause skin to become irritated and lead to dry, dull hair. In fact, researchers have found that hard water directly damages hair when washed for ten minutes a day.
Those with colored hair may be at an even greater risk of hair damage. Most often, homeowners notice tints of yellow and green on the strands of the hair as a result of the calcium and magnesium. Those with colored hair may notice a duller appearance as the color may become warped or stripped. Hair discoloration is one of the most obvious signs of hard water in your home. Other signs of hard water damage include thinning hair, breakage, hair loss, and split ends.
When it comes to treating dry scalp, shampoos may not always work. Treatment takes time but there are a handful of ways you can begin to remedy dryness in your day-to-day routine.
Not sure what to do for your dry scalp? Ditch the overpriced hair treatments. The cure for a dry, itchy scalp starts with your water. Softening your water can help combat the damaging effects of hard water, gently cleaning your hair and skin and leaving you with a fresher feeling after every wash.
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