Well Water & Hair

Well water is groundwater, which is water caught within soil and porous rocks. The source of groundwater is rain which can become acid rain if the pH level is below 5.6. If you are using well water that tests positive for hardness (well water with magnesium and calcium) your hair can be affected.

Hair Damage

• Ground water can damage the hair causing it to become susceptible to relaxing, coloring and hair straightening.

Loss of Hair

• Hair loss can occur because of developing dry, brittle, itchy scalp. Excessive dandruff can also become an issue.

Loss of Natural Color

• Hair can begin to lose its natural color over time from acidic well water.

Mineral Effects on Hair

• The minerals found in the groundwater can affect the hair also by causing hair loss, discoloring and scalp irritation. These minerals include calcium, iron, copper, magnesium, silica and lead. According to Edward Wadsworth salon, "Iron will slowly cause hair to tint darker, add weight to the hair, and prevent proper chemical processing."

Protection of Drinking Wells

• According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, "Approximately 15 percent of Americans rely on their own private drinking water supplies, and these supplies are not subject to EPA standards, although some state and local governments do set rules to protect users of these wells."