Aggarwal expressed her frustration on X (formerly Twitter): “I have to switch to reverse osmosis water in Bangalore to wash my hair, otherwise there will be nothing left. PS: If anyone has used a water softener/filter and seen results, please share the link.”
Her post quickly went viral and resonated with many who faced similar problems. One user wrote, “I live in Bangalore where the TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) level of water is 160-170 compared to 50-60 for filtered water. This has caused my hair to turn grey prematurely. Well water from my hometown with its natural minerals like calcium seems far better to me.” Another mentioned significant hair loss in Bangalore and estimated it to be around 50 percent.
Several users suggested solutions. “I use bottled water in Hyderabad. Cities like Delhi, Bangalore and Hyderabad have huge water problems. Mumbai and Guwahati did not have this problem,” noted one user. Another suggested a high-tech solution: “A friend is developing an integrated water softening solution for shower heads, which he developed because his wife was also suffering from hair loss. DM me if you want to get in touch.”
Another user shared a personal anecdote: “My wife installed a separate water purifier in the bathroom specifically for bathing. She says it’s the best 8k she’s spent on her hair.”
Humor also entered the discussion. One user quipped, “A bald head is part of the CTC, you just have to look it up.” Another recalled, “That lovely receding hairline was a gift from Bangalore during my college days… I don’t regret studying there though.”
As we continue the discussion, here are some precautions to take when dealing with hard water problems:
- Use water softener: Install a water softener or filter to reduce water hardness. This can help minimize residue and potential damage to hair and skin.
- RO water: Consider using reverse osmosis (RO) water for washing your hair to avoid the high mineral content in hard water.
- Regular cleaning: Be sure to clean shower heads and faucets regularly to prevent mineral deposits that can worsen water hardness.
- Hair care products: Choose shampoos and conditioners specifically designed for hard water to control and mitigate the effects of hard water.
- Consult a professional: If hair loss persists, consult a dermatologist or trichologist for personalized advice and treatment options tailored to your specific needs.
