Hard Water & Your Hair in Scottsdale
Hair Guide · Scottsdale, Arizona
Quick answer: Scottsdale's tap water is very hard — high in calcium and magnesium. Over time those minerals coat the hair, making it dull, dry, stiff and tangly, turning blondes brassy, and making color process unevenly. The fix: a weekly chelating or clarifying shampoo, a shower filter, and regular conditioning.
Signs of mineral buildup
- Hair feels coated, straw-like or "squeaky" even after conditioner
- Color fades fast or turns brassy
- Blonde looks dingy; you notice a slight green or orange cast
- Products don't seem to work like they used to
How to fix it
- Chelating shampoo (made to remove minerals) or a clarifying shampoo about once a week — follow with a mask.
- Shower filter to reduce chlorine and some minerals.
- Tell your colorist — buildup can affect how color takes, and your stylist may clarify first.
Extensions and hard water
Extension hair can't replenish itself, so mineral buildup shows sooner. Clarify gently, condition the lengths, and keep products off the attachments. See extension aftercare.
Common questions
Does hard water cause hair loss?
Hard water mainly affects the feel and look of hair (dryness, breakage, dullness). If you're worried about hair loss, talk with a dermatologist.
How often should I use a clarifying shampoo?
About once a week for most people in hard-water areas — more often can be drying.
Keep reading
- Arizona Hair CareHow the Arizona climate affects hair — intense UV, very hard water, chlorine, dry heat and
- Keeping Blonde Hair Bright in the Arizona Sun & PoolHow to keep blonde and highlighted hair from turning brassy or green in Arizona: UV, chlor
- What Is a Toner or Gloss?What hair toner and gloss do, why blondes need toner, how long it lasts, and how often to
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