Here's the uncomfortable truth: tap water is full of other things besides oxygen and hydrogen. By the time tap water reaches your shower stream, it's already been on a long journey, collecting everything from minerals to potentially harmful bacteria. This is why municipalities treat water with chemicals like chlorine to kill off harmful contaminants.
You likely already know by now that chlorine dries out your hair. And we'll repeat this: chlorine isn't ideal for any hair type. But it's even worse for curly hair because curls are naturally drier than straight or wavy tresses.
PROBLEM CAUSED BY CHLORINATED SHOWER WATER
Hair Strength: The cuticles of naturally curly hair are more 'open' compared to the ones on straight hair. The open cuticles make it easier for oxidizers for chlorine to penetrate the hair shaft, incurring more damage and causing the curls to become frizzy and dry.
Oxidation: If you live in an area with hard water, it's double trouble when the minerals are combined with chlorine. Chlorine oxidizes metals and binds them onto your curls, causing a wall to form that blocks chemical services, such as color, straighteners, and relaxers, from processing successfully.
Discoloration: You've probably heard the saying 'chlorine in swimming pools turns your hair green'. This happens as the combination of copper and chlorine has a discoloration effect. Chlorine speeds up the oxidation of copper, which leaves a greenish shade, especially noticeable in lighter tones.
Dry Scalp: Chlorine itself can dry out the skin and scalp, resulting in flakes, itchiness, and redness. Combined with calcium in hard water areas, chlorine alters the electrical charge of calcium, causing it to bond onto the scalp. The buildup exacerbates sensitivity, dandruff, and, in some cases, eczema flareups.
SOLUTIONS FOR CHLORINATED SHOWER WATER
Shower Filter: Prevent chlorine from entering your shower stream. The HELLO KLEAN Shower Filter removes over 90% of free chlorine and prevents it from wreaking havoc to your curls.
Reconstructors: Once the impurities have been removed from your shower stream, it is essential to use reconstructors and other protein minerals to restore the integrity of your hair. Reconstructors help reinforce the hair shaft and "patch up" the holes created by the mineral deposits while simultaneously infusing moisture and protein.
Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse: The natural alternative gently clarifies scalp buildup while adding moisture and shine to your hair shaft. It's super easy, just mix 1 cup of ACV with 5 cups of water, pour it over your scalp and hair, and thoroughly rinse it with water.
