There’s nothing better than a hot shower, especially as the temperatures start to drop heading into the new season. But your hair might not love that steaming water quite as much as you do.
Is hot water bad for your hair?
Very hot water can contribute to dryness, frizz, scalp irritation, and faster color fading. While you don’t need to start taking cold showers, turning down the temperature when washing your hair can help protect its condition and your salon color.
Why does hot water make hair feel dry?
Your hair and scalp rely on natural oils to help maintain moisture. Consistently washing with very hot water can remove more of those oils, potentially leaving your scalp feeling dry and your hair feeling rough or brittle.
This can be especially noticeable if your hair is already dry, highlighted, lightened, chemically treated, or prone to frizz.
Can hot water fade professional hair color?
Yes, frequent washing with very hot water can contribute to faster color fading.
Color-treated hair already requires a little extra care. Using gentler water temperatures, washing only as often as your hair needs, and choosing stylist-recommended products can help preserve your color between appointments.
And if you’ve invested in that perfect brunette, dimensional blonde, copper, or gloss? You definitely want to protect it.
What temperature should you use to wash your hair?
Think comfortable and lukewarm, not steaming hot.
You also don’t need to suffer through an ice-cold rinse. The goal is simply to avoid excessive heat and treat your hair as gently as possible.
How else can you protect your hair?
In addition to lowering your shower temperature:
- Use products formulated for your hair type and color.
- Limit unnecessary heat styling.
- Always use heat protection before hot tools.
- Keep up with regular trims and conditioning treatments.
- Ask your stylist to customize your home-care routine.
At Studio 104 in Libertyville, we believe beautiful hair doesn’t stop when you leave the salon. The little things you do at home can make a big difference in maintaining your color, shine, softness, and overall hair health.
Love the hot shower. Just turn it down a little when it’s time to wash your hair.