NYC Tap Water Ruining Your Hair? What Stylists Won't Say.
By Franklin Everett ShawIs your hair feeling brittle, dull, and just…off? You might be blaming your shampoo, your styling products, or even the relentless NYC humidity. But what if the real culprit is lurking right in your showerhead?
New York City tap water, while generally safe to drink, can wreak havoc on your hair. The unique combination of hardness and chlorine, coupled with the city’s aging infrastructure, creates a perfect storm for hair damage. Let’s dive into why, and more importantly, what you can actually do about it.
NYC water is considered moderately hard. This means it contains a significant amount of minerals like calcium and magnesium.
These minerals bind to your hair shaft, creating a film that prevents moisture from penetrating. The result? Dryness, brittleness, and a dull appearance.
Chlorine, added to disinfect the water, further exacerbates the problem. It strips away natural oils, leaving your hair even more vulnerable.
Older buildings in NYC, particularly those in neighborhoods like Greenwich Village or the Upper West Side, often have copper pipes. Copper pipes can leach into the water, affecting its pH and potentially causing a greenish tint, especially noticeable in blonde or light-colored hair.
This discoloration is a telltale sign of copper buildup. It’s not just an aesthetic issue; copper can also weaken the hair shaft, leading to breakage.
So, what can a New Yorker do to combat this watery assault? The first line of defense is a shower filter.
Not all shower filters are created equal. Look for one specifically designed to remove chlorine and heavy metals.
A filter containing KDF-55 media is particularly effective at removing chlorine and copper. Consider brands like Aquasana or Culligan, readily available at stores like Home Depot or Lowe’s in the city.
Installation is usually straightforward, requiring only a wrench and a few minutes. This small investment can make a huge difference in your hair’s health.
Next, consider a chelating shampoo. Chelating shampoos are designed to remove mineral buildup from the hair.
Look for ingredients like EDTA or phytic acid. These ingredients bind to the minerals and wash them away.
However, chelating shampoos can be drying, so use them sparingly – once or twice a month is usually sufficient. Follow with a deep conditioner to replenish moisture.
You can even create your own DIY chelating treatment. A simple apple cider vinegar rinse can help remove mineral buildup.
Mix one part apple cider vinegar with three parts water. Pour the mixture over your hair after shampooing, let it sit for a few minutes, and then rinse thoroughly.
Be careful not to overdo it, as apple cider vinegar can also be drying. Always dilute it properly.
Another option is a baking soda paste. Mix baking soda with water to form a paste, apply it to your hair, and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing.
Again, use this sparingly, as baking soda can be harsh. Follow with a moisturizing conditioner.
Many NYC salons offer specialized treatments to combat water damage. Ask your stylist about clarifying treatments or deep conditioning masks.
Some salons even offer keratin treatments, which can help to smooth the hair shaft and protect it from mineral buildup. However, keratin treatments can be expensive and require regular maintenance.
When choosing a salon, look for one that is familiar with the challenges of NYC water. Stylists in neighborhoods like Williamsburg or the East Village are often well-versed in dealing with water-related hair issues.
One common mistake is using hard water-based shampoos and conditioners. These products can actually exacerbate the problem by adding more minerals to your hair.
Look for sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners, as sulfates can strip away natural oils. Opt for products specifically designed for dry or damaged hair.
Another pitfall is over-washing your hair. Washing your hair too frequently can strip away natural oils and make it more vulnerable to damage.
Try to wash your hair only two or three times a week. Use a dry shampoo in between washes to absorb excess oil.
Finally, don’t forget to protect your hair from the sun. UV rays can further damage hair that is already weakened by hard water and chlorine.
Wear a hat or use a hair product with UV protection when spending time outdoors. This is especially important during the summer months.
Dealing with NYC water and its impact on your hair requires a proactive approach. By understanding the challenges and implementing these solutions, you can restore your hair’s health and vibrancy, even in the face of the city’s unique water quality. Don’t let the water win!