Showering in the rain seems like a whimsical fantasy we’ve all thought of as children. Who wouldn’t want to frolic in the rain without a care in the world and come out squeaky clean? But is rainwater good for your hair or will it cause damage?
We’ll explore the effects of rainwater on hair, whether you should wash your hair after rain, or if nature’s shower will actually have positive effects on your hair.
Is Rainwater Good For Your Hair?
Rainwater, in its purest form, is soft and lacks the mineral content found in tap water. This can be beneficial for your hair as it avoids the potential drying effects of hard water. Rainwater can help to gently cleanse your hair, removing dirt, pollutants, and product build-up, leaving it feeling refreshed.
However, not all rainwater is created equal. Depending on your location, environmental factors such as pollution and chemicals in the atmosphere can affect the quality of rainwater. Acid rain, for example, contains higher levels of pollutants, which can have a negative impact on hair health. Additionally, prolonged exposure to rainwater can cause the hair to become over-saturated, leading to frizz and potential damage.
Top 5 Cities With Most Polluted Rain
Los Angeles, California
Houston, Texas
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Gary, Indiana
Baltimore, Maryland
Should You Wash Your Hair After Rain?
It’s typically not a big deal if you don’t wash the rain out of your hair after getting caught in a rainstorm without an umbrella. If you live in an area with minimal pollution and your hair feels clean and refreshed after a rainfall, there may be no need for immediate washing. Feel free to embrace the natural benefits of rainwater and allow your hair to air dry, appreciating the effortless waves or curls it may create.
However, if you notice your hair feels weighed down, sticky, or if you’ve been exposed to acid rain or pollution, it’s advisable to wash your hair as soon as you can. Use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo to remove any residue and follow with a nourishing conditioner to restore moisture and vitality.
If you’re unable to jump in the shower right away after getting drenched in the rain, wait until your hair dries and clean your hair with dry shampoo. This should help cleanse hair from any dirt or pollution and take the sticky, heavy feeling off of your hair.
Shop Related Products:
Moroccanoil Dry Shampoo
Can You Shower in the Rain?
Ah, the romantic notion of showering in the rain. While it may seem dreamy, practicality and hygiene should be taken into consideration. Showering in the rain, without the protection of shampoo and conditioner, can lead to a build-up of dirt, pollution, and even bacteria on your scalp and hair. It’s best to save the rainwater showers for moments of blissful indulgence rather than as a regular cleansing method.
If you’re still craving a nature-like showering experience, consider installing a rainfall shower head in your bathroom. These fixtures mimic the sensation of rainfall while allowing you to control the water quality and temperature, giving an invigorating bathing experience. They’re are simple to install and more affordable than you’d think.
Shop Related Products:
PinWin Shower Head Combo
Related: Starter Locs: Stylish and Protective
How To Wash Hair With Rainwater
If you’re dead set on washing your hair with rainwater, there are ways to safely do it while protecting your hair and still reaping all of the benefits.
First, set up a rainwater collection system to capture rainwater from your roof or other surfaces. A simple bucket or bowl in the rain works. Place it outside when it begins to rain and bring it indoors as soon as it’s full or the rain stops. You don’t want the water to sit outside for too long to minimize pollution and attracting mosquitos.
It’s important to filter and purify the rainwater before using it for showering or any other domestic purposes. Install a filtration systems, such as a mesh screen or a fine filter, to remove larger particles. In addition to this, you can also boil the rainwater to further remove any impurities.
Rainwater should be stored in clean and properly sealed containers to prevent contamination. Regularly inspect and maintain your rainwater storage system to ensure it remains in good condition. Clean the storage containers periodically and check for any signs of algae growth or other issues that may affect the water quality.
Shop Related Products:
FCMP 50-Gallon Rain Catcher Barrel with Spigots and Mesh Screen
Related: Hair Stencils and Hair Tattoos: A Futuristic Hair Trend
Wrap Up
So is rainwater good for your hair? The answer is it can be, but most likely is not. While pure rainwater can offer a gentle cleanse and refresh your locks, environmental factors can impact its quality and potentially harm your hair. Assess the condition of your hair and the quality of the rainwater in your area to determine if washing or rinsing is necessary after rain exposure.
Read More: