Study on Hair Shaft Changes Due to Water Hardness Using Scanning Electron Microscopy
- Daniel Agrici
- Mar 14
- 3 min read
Introduction & Objectives
Brittle and breakable hair is a common concern in Saudi Arabia, where tap water is typically hard due to high levels of calcium and magnesium salts. Many individuals attribute hair damage to the hardness of water. This study aimed to evaluate the structural differences in the hair shaft and the deposition of calcium and magnesium salts after exposure to hard versus soft water. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) was used to assess these changes.
Methods
The study involved 20 healthy volunteers with untreated hair, divided into two groups:
Study group: Hair washed with hard water (287–533 ppm CaCO₃) for 3 weeks.
Control group: Hair washed with soft water (50–250 ppm CaCO₃) for the same duration.
Both groups followed the same washing protocol, simulating real-life shower conditions. SEM was used to evaluate hair shaft surface changes, and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) helped analyze mineral deposition. The study also followed an established grading system for hair shaft damage. Data were statistically analyzed using SPSS.
Results
Structural Surface Changes: No statistically significant difference was observed between the study and control groups under SEM.
Calcium Deposition: No significant difference between groups (P = 0.28).
Magnesium Deposition: A significant increase in magnesium was found in the hard water group (P = 0.001).
Discussion
While hard water led to increased mineral deposits (especially magnesium) on the hair shaft, it did not cause noticeable structural damage in the short term. Prior studies had conflicting results, with some suggesting long-term exposure to hard water could lead to cumulative damage, reduced tensile strength, and increased surface roughness. However, this study found no immediate effects. The role of magnesium in hair health remains unclear.
Limitations
Small sample size (20 participants).
Short exposure duration (3 weeks).
No pre-treatment analysis to compare baseline mineral content.
Other variables (such as pH, oxidative damage, and elasticity) were not considered.
Potential Negative Effects of Magnesium from Hard Water:
Surface Buildup: Magnesium deposits can accumulate on the hair shaft, leading to a rougher texture, increased friction, and potential abrasion over time.
Water Retention Issues: Excessive mineral buildup can interfere with hair's natural ability to retain moisture, possibly contributing to dryness and brittleness.
Weakened Hair Shaft: Some studies suggest prolonged exposure to hard water (including magnesium and calcium) can reduce hair tensile strength, making it more prone to breakage.
Potential Positive Effects of Magnesium on Hair:
Essential for Hair Growth: Magnesium is a crucial micronutrient in cellular functions, and deficiencies have been linked to hair loss (e.g., alopecia areata).
May Support Scalp Health: Magnesium can help regulate calcium balance, preventing excessive calcium buildup on the scalp, which can contribute to dandruff or irritation.
Final Verdict:
Short-term exposure to magnesium in hard water is unlikely to harm hair.
Long-term exposure may contribute to buildup, dryness, and weakening of the hair shaft.
Magnesium from dietary sources or hair care formulations (like magnesium oil) can support hair health, but its deposition from hard water is more likely to be harmful over time due to buildup.
Conclusions
Many people with brittle and breakable hair suspect hard water as the cause.
The study found a significantly higher deposition of magnesium salts on hair exposed to hard water.
Another study (Luqman et al.) did suggest that hard water reduces tensile strength, potentially making hair weaker.
Long-term salt deposition may cause abrasion, surface damage, water loss, and reduced thickness over time.
The effect of magnesium deposits on hair health remains unclear, but some studies suggest magnesium is essential for hair growth.
Funding & Conflicts of Interest
The study was funded by the Deanship of Scientific Research at King Faisal University.
Conflicts of interest
There are no conflicts of interest.
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