Then, why do some prefer washing the hair with hot water while others vouch for cold water? Well, both have their merits and demerits. Let’s find out more about it in the next section.
What Hot Water Does To Your Hair
The outer layer of the hair is the cuticle – made of dead, overlapping cells that protect the hair shaft (1). When you wash your hair with hot or warm water, the cuticles open up. This helps eliminate the trapped dirt, dust, oil, and sweat from the hair. But there is a downside to it. Washing the hair with hot water causes swelling of the hair shafts or frizzy hair.
What Cold Water Does To Your Hair
Cold water closes the hair cuticles and helps reduce frizz. Unless the cuticles are open, water cannot penetrate the hair and eliminate unwanted oil, dirt, and sweat. As a result, your hair will feel rough and greasy, even after washing. However, water that is too cold might make your hair dull and lifeless. A cold water rinse is great for your hair due to the following reasons.
Benefits Of Cold Water For Hair Wash
Reduces frizz Adds shine Helps eliminate dandruff Improves blood circulation to the scalp Helps retain the natural hair moisture
But is hot water any good for your hair? Yes! Here are the benefits of washing your hair with hot or warm water.
Benefits Of Hot Water For Hair Wash
Removes excess oil Eliminates dirt and dust Cleanses the scalp Prevents scalp infection Cleanses product buildup
So, what should you use – hot or cold water? Well, the trick lies in knowing when to use hot and cold water to wash your hair. Scroll down to know how to wash your hair with hot and cold water without damaging it.
Best Way To Wash Your Hair
The best way to wash your hair is to cleanse it with hot or warm water and use cold water for the final rinse. Cleansing your hair with a good shampoo and warm water helps open the hair shafts and eliminate impurities. It also preps the hair to absorb the conditioning agents and lock in moisture. After washing off the conditioner with warm water, use cold water for the final rinse. This will help close the cuticles and prevent frizz. Now the question is, can anybody use cold water to wash the hair? Let’s find out!
Should You Wash Your Hair With Cold Water?
Wash your hair with cold water if you don’t have fever, cough and cold, and sinusitis. Avoid washing your hair with cold water if you stay in a very cold climate. Heat the water to room temperature for the final rinse. Does washing hair with hot water cause hair loss? It is possible. While washing your hair with hot water is not directly linked to hair loss, it may cause scalp irritation, loss of moisture, and dandruff, leading to hair fall. Does cold water make hair grow? No. There is no scientific evidence to suggest that cold water makes hair grow. However, it makes your hair shinier and prevents damage by closing the hair cuticles.
