Can Hard Water Cause Hair Loss?

In this article, we’ll look at whether hard water can contribute to hair loss and how it might affect the overall health of your hair. Hard water is water that contains high levels of minerals, mainly calcium and magnesium. These minerals are picked up as water moves through rocks and soil, and while they aren’t harmful to your health, they can affect your hair and skin over time.

We’ll explain the common signs of hard water hair damage, how to tell if your water supply could be the cause and what you can do to minimise the effects. We’ll also explore natural ways to treat hard water damage, how to adjust your hair care routine if you live in a hard water area and what long-term steps you can take to protect your hair. 

If you’re worried about hair loss or changes to your hair’s texture or strength, we’ll also discuss when it may be best to speak to a doctor. Finally, we’ll answer some frequently asked questions to help you better understand the link between hard water and hair problems.

Key Takeaways

Here are the five biggest takeaways from this article about hard water and how it can affect your hair:

• Hard water contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium, which can build up on the scalp and strands.

• Symptoms may include an itchy or flaky scalp, tangled or brittle strands, dull colour and limp or lifeless hair.

• Natural remedies (like apple cider vinegar) and routine changes (like washing your hair with cooler water) can help.

• Specialist products (like deep conditioners) and equipment can offer long-term protection.

• If you’re experiencing hair loss, bald patches, or persistent scalp problems, it’s worth speaking to a GP, dermatologist or trichologist.

What are the common signs of hard water hair damage?

An itchy, flaky scalp

Hard water contains high levels of minerals, particularly calcium and magnesium. When you wash your hair with hard water, these minerals can build up on your scalp, making it difficult to rinse away shampoo and conditioner properly. This can lead to dryness, irritation and a flaky scalp that may resemble dandruff. The itchiness is often caused by a lack of moisture, as the mineral deposits can strip natural oils from your skin.

Tangly and brittle hair

One of the most noticeable signs of hard water damage is hair that feels rough, knotty, or difficult to brush through. The mineral residue left behind by hard water can coat each strand of hair, making it more prone to tangling and breakage. Over time, this can cause your hair to feel dry and brittle and split ends may become more common.

Lifeless and limp hair

Hard water can weigh your hair down, especially if you wash it frequently. The build-up of minerals and leftover product can leave your hair looking flat and lacking volume. You might notice that your usual shampoo doesn’t cover your hair as well, or that your hair feels greasy or heavy even after washing. This is often a sign that your scalp and strands aren’t being properly cleansed.

Dull colour and low shine

Whether your hair is natural or dyed, hard water can make it look dull and faded. Mineral deposits can create a coating on the hair, blocking light and reducing shine. If you dye your hair, you may find that the colour fades quicker or becomes patchy over time. Even untreated hair can lose its natural shine, making it appear dry or tired.

Can I treat hard water hair damage naturally?

Home-based treatments

Yes, there are several natural remedies that may help reduce the effects of hard water on your hair. Many common household ingredients can be used to break down mineral buildup, soothe your scalp and restore softness and shine. These simple treatments can often be done at home using ingredients you may already have in your kitchen.

Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse

Apple cider vinegar is widely used as a natural hair rinse due to its ability to remove product and mineral buildup. Its acetic acid content helps break down the residue left behind by hard water, while also helping to restore shine.

To use:

1. Mix 200ml of apple cider vinegar with 200ml of water.

2. After shampooing, pour the mixture through your hair.

3. Leave it on for 1 to 2 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with warm water.

Not only does apple cider vinegar remove build-up, but it also contains vitamins and nutrients that may support stronger, healthier hair.

Lemon Juice Rinse

Lemon juice contains citric acid, which works similarly to vinegar by dissolving mineral deposits from hard water. It also helps to slightly raise the pH of your hair, which can help loosen any residue on the scalp or strands.

To use:

1. Mix freshly squeezed lemon juice with an equal amount of water.

2. Apply to clean, damp hair and leave on for 2 to 3 minutes.

3. Rinse thoroughly and follow with a moisturising conditioner.

Use this treatment 1 to 2 times per week to avoid dryness, as lemon juice is naturally acidic.

Bicarbonate of Soda (Baking Soda) Paste

Bicarbonate of soda can help to remove hard water build-up by gently exfoliating the scalp and lifting residue from the hair. It’s important to use this treatment sparingly, as it can be drying if overused.

To use:

1. Mix a tablespoon of bicarbonate of soda with a small amount of water to form a paste.

2. Gently massage it into your scalp and through your hair.

3. Leave it on for a minute or two, then rinse thoroughly with warm water.

Limit this to once a week and always follow up with a conditioner or hydrating hair mask.

Adapt how you wash and care for your hair

Hard water hair care plan

If you live in a hard water area, making small changes to your hair care routine can help protect your scalp and strands from further damage. A few simple adjustments may reduce mineral build-up, improve hair texture and help keep your hair looking and feeling healthier.

Wash with cooler water

Washing your hair with hot water opens up the cuticles and allows more minerals to enter the hair shaft. Try switching to lukewarm or cool water instead, which helps to seal the cuticle and reduce the amount of mineral buildup on your hair and scalp.

Use filtered, bottled or collected rainwater occasionally

Rotating your normal tap water washes with bottled water, filtered water, or even collected rainwater (if safe to use) may reduce exposure to harsh minerals. Some people find this helps their hair feel softer. You could also consider installing a water filter in your shower, especially one designed for use in hard water areas.

Wash less often

Reducing the number of times you wash your hair each week can limit your exposure to hard water. Over-washing may strip away natural oils and make your hair drier. Try using dry shampoo or scalp sprays between washes to keep your hair feeling fresh while allowing your scalp time to recover.

Switch to a hard water shower head

Shower heads fitted with anti-limescale filters or softening beads can help reduce the amount of minerals that come into contact with your hair and skin. Some models are marketed specifically for hard water households.

Consider a home water softener

A water softener system is fitted to your plumbing and removes minerals like calcium and magnesium before the water reaches your taps and shower. While this is a more costly solution, it can be an effective long-term option for protecting your hair and skin from hard water damage.

Good Hair Care Habits

The way you handle your hair can have a significant impact on its condition, especially if it's already affected by hard water. Taking a gentle, considered approach to your daily routine can help reduce further damage [1].

• Be gentle when washing: Use your fingertips rather than your palms to apply shampoo and conditioner. Avoid scrubbing or massaging the scalp too firmly.

• Use a mild shampoo: Choose a gentle or fragrance-free shampoo with minimal ingredients to avoid stripping moisture from your hair.

• Always condition your hair: Conditioner coats the hair and reduces friction, helping to prevent frizz, breakage and split ends.

• Avoid tight hairstyles: Styles that pull on the scalp, such as ponytails, buns, braids, or cornrows, can lead to a type of hair loss known as traction alopecia.

• Limit brushing: Wet hair is especially fragile. Instead of using a brush, detangle with your fingers or a wide-toothed comb.

• Let your hair air dry: Heat styling tools can weaken the hair. Try wrapping your hair in a microfibre towel and letting it dry naturally.

• Avoid heat where possible: If you use a hairdryer, straighteners or curling tongs, keep the heat setting as low as possible and limit use to special occasions.

Lifestyle Considerations

• Eat a balanced diet: Hair health depends on good nutrition. Make sure you’re getting enough protein, iron and essential vitamins.

• Avoid smoking: Smoking contributes to inflammation throughout the body, which may worsen hair thinning or loss.

• Protect hair from sun exposure: UV rays can dry out and weaken hair, so wear a hat if you’re out in strong sunlight for long periods.

Make use of specialised hair care products

While home remedies can offer short-term relief from hard water damage, using hair care products specifically designed for hard water areas can provide longer-lasting protection and help maintain healthier hair between washes. The following products may help if you are in a hard water area:

Chelating shampoos and conditioners

Chelating shampoos are specially formulated to remove the mineral deposits that hard water leaves behind. These products help break down and wash away stubborn buildup without stripping your hair of essential moisture.

Deep conditioning treatments

Hard water can roughen the hair cuticle, making it more prone to dryness, frizz and breakage. Weekly deep conditioning can help restore moisture and protect your hair’s surface. For added benefit, you can wrap your hair in a warm towel to help the ingredients absorb more effectively.

Scalp detoxifying treatments

Hard water doesn’t just affect your hair. It can also build up on your scalp, clogging hair follicles and slowing healthy hair growth. A weekly exfoliating scalp treatment can help remove mineral deposits, product residue and dead skin cells.

How to look after your hair long-term if you live in an area affected by hard water

Hard water exposure can take a toll on your hair over time, but with the right long-term care, it’s possible to keep your scalp healthy and your hair looking its best. 

Install a water softener or shower filter

Fitting a shower filter or a home water softening system reduces the levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium that contribute to dryness, brittleness and scalp irritation.

Make scalp care part of your routine

A weekly scalp massage can help to stimulate blood flow, loosen dead skin and remove mineral residue at the root level. Use your fingertips in gentle circular motions or a soft-bristle scalp brush.

Support hair from the inside out

What you eat plays an important role in how your hair copes with environmental stress. Try to include:

• Omega-3 fatty acids from foods like salmon and flaxseeds for natural shine and scalp hydration.

• Iron and zinc, found in red meat, beans and leafy greens, support healthy growth.

• Biotin and vitamin C which help strengthen the hair shaft and boost collagen production.

Seek expert help if needed

If you’re experiencing ongoing hair thinning or hair loss and suspect hard water may be contributing, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice. A specialist in hair and scalp health can offer tailored guidance based on your individual needs.

Should I speak to a doctor about hard water hair damage?

In many cases, the effects of hard water on your hair can be managed without expert intervention. However, if your symptoms persist or worsen despite these efforts, it may be time to seek professional advice.

When to consider seeing a trichologist or dermatologist:

You should speak to a specialist if you notice any of the following:

• Sudden or ongoing hair thinning that doesn’t improve with treatment

• Bald patches or large areas of breakage and loss

• Scalp symptoms such as redness, itching, burning, spots or hives

• Hair falling out in clumps when washing or brushing

• No noticeable improvement from over-the-counter products

These signs could point to an underlying issue that’s not solely related to hard water. A medical specialist can carry out tests to reach a clear diagnosis and recommend suitable treatment.

What about genetic hair loss?

If your symptoms are linked to hereditary hair loss, such as male or female pattern baldness, your doctor or a trichologist may suggest other options. These could include:

• Topical minoxidil, branded as Regaine

• Oral finasteride, which is often used under the branded name Propecia

• Low-light laser devices, designed to stimulate hair follicles and encourage regrowth

Hard water hair damage FAQs

Does hard water cause permanent damage to hair?

Hard water can certainly take a toll on your hair, leaving it dry, dull, brittle and more prone to breakage. However, any damage caused by hard water is rarely permanent [2].

While regular exposure to mineral-rich water may weaken hair over time, it doesn’t alter the structure of the hair in a way that permanently affects its strength or elasticity.

In most cases, though, hair affected by hard water can bounce back with consistent care.

How can I stop my hair from falling out in the shower?

Losing a few hairs in the shower is completely normal, but if you're noticing more hair than usual going down the drain, there are steps you can take to help reduce shedding.

Be gentle when washing

Avoid scrubbing or tugging at your hair while shampooing. This helps reduce breakage and protects fragile hair strands.

Use lukewarm water

Hot water can weaken hair and strip it of natural oils, making it more prone to breakage. Wash with lukewarm water instead, and finish with a cool rinse to help seal the cuticle and reduce damage.

Avoid brushing wet hair

Hair is most fragile when it’s wet. Instead of brushing straight after washing, gently detangle with your fingers or use a wide-toothed comb once your hair is towel-dried. 

Limit how often you wash your hair

Washing your hair too frequently can dry it out and increase shedding. Try to wash your hair just 2 or 3 times per week, depending on your hair type and scalp condition.

Speak to a specialist

If you're experiencing excessive or sudden hair loss, it’s worth speaking to a healthcare professional or trichologist.

Can regular use of oil on my hair help with hard water?

Yes, regularly applying natural oils to your hair and scalp can be a simple yet effective way to protect against the drying effects of hard water.

Oils such as coconut, almond and argan form a protective barrier around each hair strand, helping to shield it from mineral deposits found in hard water.

Natural oils also restore lost moisture, helping to smooth the cuticle, reduce frizz and bring back shine. When used as part of a consistent routine, oiling can improve hair texture and resilience, making it easier to manage and less prone to breakage.

Final Thoughts

While hard water doesn't usually cause permanent hair loss, it can have a noticeable impact on your hair's texture, appearance and manageability. Common signs include dryness, brittleness, dullness and scalp irritation. Thankfully, there is a range of simple home remedies, hair care adjustments and specialist products that can help reduce mineral build-up and restore softness and shine. Long-term strategies, like using filtered water, switching to a hard water shower head or installing a water softener, can also help protect your hair over time. 

If you’re experiencing persistent hair loss or scalp issues despite making changes, it’s a good idea to get advice from a GP, dermatologist or trichologist.

Sources

[1] Good hair care advice - NHS

[2] Effects of Hard Water on Hair - PMC