Hard water occurs when there is a relatively high concentration
of ions such as magnesium, calcium, and iron that have been dissolved in
the water as it passes through the atmosphere and the ground toward
municipal collection facilities. These ions can create a number of
problems in the home when exposed to heat and water including lime scale
deposits on bathroom fixtures, appliance damage, detergent and soap
problems, scum buildup, dry or itchy skin, and issues with hair. The
extent of the problem is usually dependent on the amount of ions that
are present in the region's soil and most people who reside in the
Midwest seem to have more issues with water hardness than those who live
on the Coasts. In order to resolve problems with hard water hair, it is
important to have a basic understanding of how it occurs.
Human
hair is made up of a protein that is known as keratin. The hair
originates from special structures called follicles that are located in
the lower layers of the skin. The segment of hair that is visible is
known as the cuticle and it consists of overlapping layers of dead
keratin that are stacked on each other like the shingles on a house. The
cuticle is designed to protect the more sensitive and softer inner
segments of the hair referred to as the cortex and medulla. The problems
that arise with hair, when hard water exists in the home, are primarily
the result of the effects that hardness causing ions have on
detergents. When these ions interact with soap molecules, they form
salts that are deposited between the layers of dead keratin that make up
the cuticle. This causes the layers to protrude outward making the hair
feel rough and making it harder to untangle. Decreased lathering of the
soap can also make it harder to wash away and can lead to soap scum
deposits that make the hair feel brittle.
Over the years, shampoo
and conditioner manufacturers have become better about creating products
that are able to withstand the effects of hardness causing ions. They
do this by replacing the surfactants commonly found in natural soaps
with chemicals like that of sodium lauryl sulphate, ammonium laureth
sulphate, and others. In addition, many of these companies add special
lathering agents that are able to work in most types of water regardless
of the presence of hardness causing ions. While the addition of these
chemicals does make the shampoo and conditioner easier to use in cases
where hard water is the issue, they also remove the natural oils that
help create shiny and strong cuticles. To counteract this, it is
recommended that a conditioner be used to replace the oils. While this
does help, it is not as effective at strengthening the cuticles as
natural oils would be.
One of the best alternatives to using
shampoos and conditioners that contain harsh chemicals like those listed
above is to purchase and install a water softener that is capable of
removing hardness causing ions before the water enters the home. There
are many different types of softening systems available today, but the
most popular product is known as a salt-based system. These softeners
are generally designed using two tanks that work together to pull
hardness causing ions out of the water and wash them away using a
concentrated salt solution. Not only does a softener work to eliminate
the hard water hair issues that commonly arise in areas of high ion
concentration, but they also protect appliances from damage and ensure
that scale deposits do not form on metallic surfaces. While a softening
system can be costly to purchase and install, the benefits that come
with such a product usually offset the high price tag.
In addition
to having a water softener installed in the home, individuals can help
alleviate problems with the hair by using a chelating shampoo that is
specifically designed to remove the salt accumulations that form over
time. Many companies use the terms neutralizing and clarifying to
indicate that a product is a good one for removing residue. In general,
it is recommended that such products be used sparingly and only when
necessary because they also strip natural oils from the hair and can
cause the hair to become weaker. When using a chelating agent, it is a
good idea to follow it up with a conditioner that is able to replace
some of the oils that were removed. Homeowners can also contact
professional water softeners in their area to find out what their
recommendations are for eliminating hardness causing ions.
Individuals who are interested in learning more about the source
of hard water and the various treatments available are strongly
encouraged to visit http://www.homewatersoftenerreviews.com/
where they will find additional information on why hardness causing
ions are problematic, the varying effects they can have in the home, how
to eliminate hard water, water softener reviews, and installation
guidelines. In addition to reviewing this information, it is advised
that a local water softener specialist be consulted about hard water
issues before deciding on the most appropriate treatment option. In most
cases, these individuals can provide valuable advice, perform the
installation, and offer ongoing customer support.
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