Only a few things are more annoying than rust on your hair. Luckily, getting rid of it is simple, for example by using products that you can buy in perfumery, such as chelating or clarifying shampoos. Alternatively, you can use common products like vinegar or lemon juice. Once the problem is fixed, you can prevent the rust from reappearing by using a shower head filter or water tank.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Using Specialized Products
Step 1. Use a clarifying shampoo or mineral remover
There are shampoos formulated to remove minerals and pollutants from the hair. They are more expensive than regular shampoos, but generally need to be used less frequently (in most cases only once a week).
Shampoos that remove minerals work in the same way as regular shampoos. You will need to apply a small amount to wet hair, massage to make it lather and then rinse
Step 2. Alternatively, you can use a chelating shampoo
Chelatinising shampoos contain ingredients such as ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (generally abbreviated with the abbreviation EDTA), acetic acid or citric acid. These shampoos bind to the iron particles and remove them from the hair during rinsing.
- Like clarifying shampoos, chelating shampoos can also be aggressive on the hair. Read the recommendations for use on the label and use a moisturizing conditioner to restore their natural moisture to the hair.
- Chelatinising shampoos can be found in the most well-stocked perfumeries or hairdressers. You can identify them by the words "chelatin" or "contains EDTA".
Step 3. Use a purple shampoo formulated for gray or platinum blonde hair
These shampoos contain a temporary dye that neutralizes red tones. Mix the shampoo with a spoonful of baking soda before applying it to your hair and leave it on for about ten minutes before rinsing.
The baking soda will help remove any rust or iron on your hair
Part 2 of 3: Remove Rust from Hair with Common Use Products
Step 1. Use lemon juice
Being moderately acidic, lemon juice is perfect for getting rid of rust from your hair. Pour it on your head and massage it into individual strands. Leave it on for 10 minutes before rinsing your hair with warm water.
- Use lemon juice once a week to get rid of rust from your hair.
- The amount of lemon juice needed depends on the amount of rust. Make sure it's enough so that you can distribute a generous amount all over your hair.
- Keep in mind that lemon juice can dry out your hair considerably. After the treatment is finished, apply a conditioner or a moisturizing mask.
Step 2. Massage warm coconut or olive oil into your hair
Heat the oil for a few seconds in the microwave or on the stove, then massage it into your scalp and hair for about 30 minutes. Finally, rinse your hair thoroughly.
- Since the oil must be massaged continuously into the hair for half an hour, it is best to ask for help from a family member or friend.
- The oil will dissolve the rust present on the hair.
- If you wish, you can wrap a warm towel around your head and leave the oil on. The compress will help open pores and allow you to remove more rust from your hair.
- Another option is to wear a shower cap and sit under a hairdryer hood. The result is much the same as wrapping a warm towel around your head.
Step 3. Wash your hair with apple cider vinegar
This common pantry ingredient is great for removing rust that has built up on your hair. You can use it alone or after your regular shampoo. Pour it on the roots, then massage it thoroughly into the rest of the hair and scalp.
- Rinse your hair with cold water to seal the cuticles.
- If you feel the need, you can mask the vinegar smell left on your hair by using a leave-in conditioner.
- If you prefer, you can use white wine vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar.
Step 4. Prepare an anti-rust mixture to spread on the hair with the vinegar and cream of tartar
Combine the two ingredients in equal parts, for example you can mix 8 tablespoons of each. Spread the mixture into your hair and let it sit for 10 minutes, then rinse your hair with cold water.
Step 5. Don't use vinegar on your hair more than 2-3 times a month
It should be used in moderation as it can dry them out considerably. In addition, it is important to rehydrate the hair with conditioner after each application.
If your hair is particularly sensitive to the dehydrating action of vinegar, you can try diluting it with distilled water in equal parts. Once diluted, you can apply it directly to your hair or mix it with cream of tartar
Part 3 of 3: Filter the Water
Step 1. Install a water filter
There are two types of filters that can help you prevent the rust problem on your hair. One requires you to remove the old shower head and replace it with a new one that has an internal filter. The other consists of a domestic water purifier that is connected to the water tank.
- If you live in an apartment building and therefore don't have access to the water tank, the best option is to replace the shower head.
- Either way, you can choose from a wide range of filters. The instructions for installation and use will vary depending on the product you decide to purchase. For more information see the instruction manual.
- Read the specifications of the filter you are interested in to make sure it is capable of blocking iron particles.
Step 2. Wash your hair with distilled water
You can continue to use tap water for body cleansing and switch to bottled water when it's time to shampoo. Pour a generous amount of distilled water on your hair to moisten it before applying the shampoo and massage it to make it lather. Also use distilled water to rinse your hair.
- You can pour water into a pitcher to make it easier to pour it over your hair.
- Keep the pitcher in the shower or next to the bathtub. Close it with the cap and refill it regularly with distilled water.
Step 3. Reduce the water temperature when it's time to wash your hair
It's a simple, yet effective way to reduce the amount of iron that builds up on your hair. Use warm water to cleanse your body, then turn down the temperature when it's time to wash your hair.
Step 4. Keep your hair dry when showering or bathing if you don't intend to shampoo
Don't get them wet unless necessary. Wear the shower cap to protect them from the water or simply keep your head away from the water jet.
Step 5. Quickly dry your hair
Rust is caused by the reaction between iron microparticles and water. The quicker you are at drying your hair, the less likely it is for rust to form. Use the hair dryer to dry them as quickly as possible.
