Houston Humidity: Is Tap Copper Ruining Hair?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe struggle is real, Houston. You love the city, the food, the culture, but your hair? Not so much. It’s brittle, discolored, maybe even thinning. You’ve tried everything, from expensive salon treatments to DIY concoctions, but nothing seems to work. What gives?
The culprit might be closer than you think: Houston’s unique environment, specifically the humidity and the water flowing through your pipes. Let’s dive into how these factors can wreak havoc on your hair and, more importantly, what you can do about it.
Houston’s humidity is legendary. It’s not just uncomfortable; it’s a breeding ground for hair problems. High humidity causes the hair shaft to swell, making it more porous and prone to breakage. This constant swelling and shrinking weakens the hair over time, leading to split ends, frizz, and a dull appearance.
But humidity is only half the battle. Houston’s tap water, while treated, can contain minerals and metals that accumulate in your hair, leading to discoloration, dryness, and even hair loss. One of the biggest concerns is copper.
Copper pipes are common in older Houston homes, and as water flows through them, small amounts of copper can leach into the water supply. While the EPA sets limits for copper in drinking water, even levels within those limits can cause problems for your hair. Copper buildup can give blonde hair a greenish tint, darken other hair colors, and make hair feel dry and brittle.
So, how do you know if your hair problems are caused by Houston’s water? The first step is to test your water. You can start with a simple DIY test for water hardness.
Fill a clear bottle with tap water and add a few drops of liquid soap. Shake the bottle vigorously. If you see lots of suds, your water is likely soft. If you see very few suds and a milky residue, your water is hard, meaning it contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium. Hard water can contribute to mineral buildup on your hair, exacerbating the effects of copper.
For a more accurate assessment of copper levels, you’ll need a copper water testing kit. These kits are readily available online or at hardware stores like Lowe’s or Home Depot in the Houston area. Follow the instructions carefully to collect a water sample and send it to the lab for analysis. The results will tell you the exact concentration of copper in your water.
If your water test reveals high levels of copper or hardness, the next step is to invest in a water filter. Not all water filters are created equal. You need one specifically designed to remove copper and other heavy metals.
Look for filters certified by NSF International, an independent organization that tests and certifies water filters. Specifically, look for filters certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 53 for the reduction of copper.
Here are a few options to consider:
Whole-house filters: These filters are installed on your main water line and filter all the water entering your home. They’re a more expensive option, but they provide comprehensive protection against copper and other contaminants. Brands like Aquasana and Springwell offer whole-house filters certified to remove copper.
Under-sink filters: These filters are installed under your kitchen sink and provide filtered water on demand. They’re a more affordable option than whole-house filters and are ideal for drinking water and washing your hair. Brands like Brita and PUR offer under-sink filters that reduce copper.
Shower filters: These filters attach to your showerhead and filter the water as it comes out. They’re a simple and inexpensive way to reduce your exposure to copper while showering. Culligan and AquaBliss offer shower filters that remove copper and other contaminants.
Once you’ve addressed the water quality issue, it’s time to focus on your hair care routine. The key is to use products that can remove mineral buildup and protect your hair from further damage. Chelating shampoos are your best friend.
Chelating shampoos contain ingredients that bind to metal ions, like copper, and remove them from your hair. Look for shampoos containing ingredients like EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid), phytic acid, or citric acid.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to using a chelating shampoo:
- Wet your hair thoroughly.
- Apply a generous amount of chelating shampoo to your hair and scalp.
- Massage the shampoo into your hair and scalp for 2-3 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with filtered water, if possible.
- Follow with a moisturizing conditioner.
It’s important to note that chelating shampoos can be drying, so don’t use them every day. Start by using a chelating shampoo once a week and adjust the frequency as needed. If your hair feels dry or brittle, reduce the frequency or use a more moisturizing conditioner.
In addition to using a chelating shampoo, consider incorporating these tips into your hair care routine:
Use a deep conditioner regularly: Deep conditioners help to replenish moisture and repair damage caused by mineral buildup and humidity. Look for deep conditioners containing ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, or argan oil.
Avoid heat styling: Heat styling can further damage hair that’s already weakened by mineral buildup and humidity. If you must use heat styling tools, use a heat protectant spray and keep the temperature low.
Protect your hair from the sun: The sun can also damage your hair, making it more susceptible to breakage and discoloration. Wear a hat or use a hair sunscreen when spending time outdoors.
Consider a clarifying treatment: For stubborn mineral buildup, you might need a stronger clarifying treatment. Malibu C offers a line of crystal gel treatments specifically designed to remove mineral buildup from hair. These treatments are typically performed in salons, but you can also purchase them for home use.
One common mistake Houston residents make is assuming that all water filters are the same. They grab the cheapest option at the store, only to find that it doesn’t address the specific issues affecting their hair. Always check the filter’s certification and make sure it’s designed to remove copper and other heavy metals.
Another pitfall is overusing chelating shampoos. While these shampoos are effective at removing mineral buildup, they can also strip your hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and breakage. Use them sparingly and always follow with a moisturizing conditioner.
Finally, don’t expect overnight results. It takes time to remove mineral buildup and repair damaged hair. Be patient and consistent with your hair care routine, and you’ll eventually see a noticeable improvement in the health and appearance of your hair.
Living in Houston presents unique challenges for hair care. The combination of high humidity and potentially high copper levels in tap water can lead to brittle, discolored, and thinning hair. But by testing your water, investing in a quality water filter, and adopting a targeted hair care routine, you can combat these issues and achieve healthier, more beautiful hair. Don’t let Houston’s environment get the best of your hair. Take control and show off your gorgeous locks with confidence.