Scanning Electron Microscopy Study of Hair Shaft Changes Related to Hardness of Water

    January 2017 in “ Indian Journal of Dermatology Venereology and Leprology ”
    Lujain M. AlAhmmed, Ebtehal A Alibrahim, Abdullah F Alkhars, Mohammed N Almulhim, Sayed Ibrahim Ali, Feroze Kaliyadan
    TLDR Hard water increases magnesium deposits on hair without changing its structure.
    The study investigated the effects of hard water on hair shaft changes using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with 20 healthy volunteers. Hair samples were washed with either hard or soft water for 3 weeks to simulate real-life conditions. Results showed no significant difference in surface changes between the two groups, although there was a higher deposition of magnesium in hair treated with hard water. Despite this, the increased mineral deposits did not correlate with significant hair shaft damage. The study concluded that while hard water may lead to more mineral deposits, it does not necessarily cause structural damage to hair. The authors suggested that further research with larger sample sizes and longer durations is needed to fully understand the impact of hard water on hair.
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