Hard Water? What's in your tap?

 Since moving to Japan, I have noticed a vast difference in my hair whenever I wash it. I experience very dry and dull hair, dry scalp, hard and rough hair even after shampooing and conditioning. I changed shampoos and conditioners many times until one day it dawned on me that maybe it could be the water. I embarked on a research and found out that in Japan they have hard water in the tap.

What is hard water?

Hard water is water that contains mineral salts such as calcium and magnesium ions that limit the formation of lather with soap.

You maybe wondering how do I know if I have hard water?

You may call your local water authorities or you can do a google search of your country or location to see what kind of water you have.


Hard water leaves behind traces of minerals on your hair, and creates hair that is a lot more tangle prone due to the deposits of minerals, and improper PH balance of the hair. Did I also mention that hard water takes a major toll on shampoo consumption? You may also notice you need to use more shampoo because hard water significantly decreases soaps lathering capabilities.

Inexpensive ways of dealing with hard water and your hair

You can use homemade acid rinses like lemon juice and Apple Cider vinegar. The most popular is the Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) and water rinse.

Why vinegar? It helps to remove build up and residue from your hair giving it sheen and keeping you hair healthy.

Rinse recipe

TWO TABLESPOONS of Apple Cider Vinegar per THREE CUPS of bottled spring water [Start off with this formula, then up the formula with the ACV as needed].

Instructions
Pour this mixture throughout your hair [be cautious of your eyes, this stuff burns], and voila. There is no need to rinse out the ACV.  You will notice a distinct smell, however as your hair dries the smell dissipates. You may also add some herbs and natural oils to change the smell.

How often should I use the AVC rinse?
Once every two weeks is a normal regimen for ACV rinsing, however I usually do this once a month. Use your judgement to see how often you will need to do the AVC rinse.

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Syn