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Chlorine, Salt & Hard Water: Our Tips to Combat Dullness & Dryness
As winter wraps us in its cosy embrace, our hair is presented with unique challenges brought on by the season's chilly touch.
From brisk winds to indoor heating that parches strands, these elements can leave our locks feeling less than lustrous.
We're diving into the winter stressors that can result in dry, brittle hair, along with solutions to incorporate into your routine for maintaining a mane that radiates health, resilience and glow, despite the weather.
1. Winter Chill - The Cold and Dry Culprit
During winter, the combination of cold temperatures and dry air can leave our hair looking dull and feeling dry. Cold air lacks moisture and can strip the hair of its natural oils, leading to brittle strands that are prone to breakage and frizz.
As well as this, harsh indoor heating can create a drying effect on the hair and scalp. This heated air can also strip the hair and scalp of its natural oils, leaving it prone to static and frizz.
Nourish + Protect
Consider using a humidifier indoors to restore moisture levels and maintain hair hydration. Incorporate hydrating hair masks and leave-in conditioners to nourish and protect hair. Our Nourishing Vitamin Conditioner can be used as a leave in-mask for ultimate hydration and protection.
2. Chlorine - The Poolside Peril
For those who continue to get their laps in during winter, chlorine poses an additional stress!
While essential for keeping swimming pools clean, chlorine can be harsh on our hair. It bonds to the protein in our hair, stripping it of natural oils and leaving it dry and brittle. This chemical can also alter the hair's colour (turning blondes, green!) and cause it to become more susceptible to breakage.
Protect + Restore:
Be sure to wet your hair with clean water before swimming. This helps reduce the amount of chlorine absorbed. Post-swim, rinse your hair thoroughly with fresh water and use a clarifying shampoo to remove any residual chlorine. For chlorine damage, choose a nourishing conditioner and a leave-in mask once a week.
3. Hard Water - The Everyday Stressor
Hard water exists in the plumbing systems of our cities. It is high in mineral content like calcium and magnesium which leave a residue on our hair that makes it feel dry and dull. Over time, this mineral buildup can weigh down hair strands, making them more prone to breakage and reducing their natural shine.
Clarify + Soften
First step - add a filter to your shower head! Your hair and skin will absolutely thank you. Then, choose a clarifying shampoo once a week to remove mineral buildup from your hair. Look for products with cleansing properties that can bind to minerals and lift them away, without stripping your hair. Follow up with a moisturising conditioner to restore softness and shine. Opting for natural products can help to rebalance your scalp's pH and remove residue left by hard water - our 2-Step Vitamin Haircare System was designed to do just that!
4. Nourish Your Hair From The Inside Out
Your hair health relies on an inside-out approach, so be sure to include these tips in your dream-hair regime:
- Proper Nutrition: A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals like biotin, vitamin C, and omega-3 fatty acids supports healthy hair growth and strength(2).
- Gentle Styling: Aim to minimise heat styling and use heat protectant products to prevent damage from hot tools. Choose a gentle detangling brush to remove knots with ease - like ours here.
- Regular Haircuts: Keep split ends at bay by scheduling regular trims every 6-8 weeks to maintain hair health and prevent breakage.
- Scalp Care: Maintain a healthy scalp environment by gently massaging it during shampooing to stimulate circulation and promote hair growth. Read more about how you can support your unique scalp type here.
- Supplements: For hair growth, health and thickness, consider a targeted supplement containing Iodine and Zinc.
References:
- Sebetić, K., Sjerobabski, Masnec I, Cavka, V., Biljan, D., Krolo, I. UV damage of the hair. (2008), pp. 63-5. PMID: 19138021.
- Almohanna, H.M., Ahmed, A.A., Tsatalis, J.P., Tosti, A. The Role of Vitamins and Minerals in Hair Loss: A Review (2019) pp. 51-70. PMID: 30547302; PMCID: PMC6380979.
