Hair Care Routine for Soft Water Hair

While hard water can be damaging for hair, soft water can come with its own set of challenges as well. From a lack of volume to excess oil, these are some of the most common issues seen when it comes to styling and developing a hair care routine for soft water hair.

Soft water can be a natural occurrence or the result of treated water. It contains less minerals and instead only de-ionized sodium which creates that soft, slippery feel. While some prefer soft water and the way it makes their hair and skin feel, this water type can cause issues like excess oil or lack of volume, especially when you’re not used to caring for soft water hair.

While overall it is less damaging to your hair, soft water contains less minerals and results in a gentler feel that often can cause hair to feel limp or greasy. The mistake often made when washing with soft water is utilising products designed for hard water — like clarifying formulas or heavier conditioners — and using them too often when you have soft water. 

It can take some time getting used to soft water, but the best hair care routine for soft water includes:

• Using lighter shampoo and conditioner formulas
• Not using clarifying shampoos routinely, only when there is product buildup
• Skipping heavy masques or treatments often
• Working volumising formulas into your routine
• Utilising dry shampoo to refresh the hair between wash days

Your hair may need time to get use to soft water but in general, it is best to use less soap and conditioner in the shower and making sure that products are thoroughly washed from the hair.

Lightweight products that add volume to the hair are key to any hair care routine for soft water hair. For everyday care, stick to the VOLUME or THICKENING regimens and work in ANGEL.WASH + ANGEL.RINSE for fine and coloured hair or PLUMPING.WASH + PLUMPING.RINSE to enhance thin hair.

In addition to treating the effects of soft water in the shower, add FRESH.HAIR dry shampoo between wash days or DOO.OVER dry powder finishing spray to your soft water hair care routine. Both are great options when looking to cut down on the look of oily hair while also adding in a touch of volume.