Many people dream of having healthy, glossy, hair and sometimes their dream comes true. However, only a tiny number are born with naturally beautiful hair. Most of us will always need to put in the time and effort to achieve a smooth mane. With that in mind, have you ever thought about the water temperature you use to wash your hair?
In addition to the shampoo you apply and the number of times you wash your hair, the temperature of the water you use plays an essential role in preserving the strength of your hair. Indeed, it has an impact on your hair’s quality. So, which temperature is best? Read on to find out.
What Is The Correct Water Temperature For Washing Your Hair?
In general, you can wash your hair with water that is 100°F or 38°C (slightly warmer than your body temperature). You can use water at a lower temperature in the summer. It is better to finish with a cold rinse after washing and cleaning with lukewarm water, as it will help to close open pores and raised cuticles.
Effects Of Using Hot Water
There are benefits and drawbacks to washing your hair with hot water. On the plus side, hot water removes filth, grime and buildup from hair. It also does not harm your hair’s internal protein structure and promotes blood flow to the scalp’s follicles.
On the other hand, hot water can deplete your hair of natural oils, causing it to become dry and brittle.
What Does Cold Water Do To Your Hair?
So, how good is cold water for your hair? Many people feel that washing your hair with cold water helps retain natural oils. Cold water seals the hair cuticles and keeps your scalp clean. It also blocks your pores, making them less sensitive to debris, oil and grease.
There are some disadvantages to cold water, too. For a start, washing with cold water can reduce hair volume. Nor does it wash your hair and scalp as well as hot water. Finally, cold water can provide an unpleasant washing experience as the winter weather creeps in.
What Water Temperature Is Best For Different Hair Types?
The ideal water temperature for washing your hair depends upon your body’s dosha levels. Many factors influence your dosha levels, including age, genetics and lifestyle to name just three, so before determining what water temperature to use, you must first assess your hair type.
Pitta Hair Type
These hair types are more vulnerable to high temperatures than other hair kinds. Washing Pitta hair with hot water causes irritation, redness and premature greying of the scalp, so avoid hot washes if you fall into this category. Pitta hair benefits from being washed in cold water or a lukewarm temperature (if you really can’t face that cold-water shock).
Vata Hair Type
If you have this type of hair, it’s advisable to wash your hair in lukewarm water to avoid losing hair volume. Vata hair tends to be healthy hair with a porous structure and lower hydration levels, so you should never wash it with hot water. Also, remember that cold water can damage your hair, especially in winter.
Kapha Hair Type
The Kapha hair type produces more sebum than other hair types. This can foster various scalp buildups that require thorough cleansing. As a result, somewhat warmer water may be the best option for Kapha hair. You must ensure, however, that the water is not so hot that it damages your scalp and hair cells.
Conclusion
Water is an essential part of washing and conditioning your hair. It helps spread the shampoo over and into the scalp, removing excess oil and dirt while also washing away dead cells. It can also help in the removal of dandruff and soap buildup. So, pay close attention to the water temperature when washing your locks. It’s important that you find the temperature that suits your hair type to keep your hair healthy and clean.
Vinci Hair Clinic is on hand to help with hair loss or thinning or any other scalp condition that is causing you concern. We offer all our new clients a free consultation. Get in touch today and book your free appointment!
