A study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science analyzed the metal deposits on hair samples from people across the globe and asked them to rate their hair as either good, average, or poor. Turns out, the people who rated their hair as poor also had the highest levels of calcium, magnesium, and copper in their hair. What’s more, the levels of metals varied by location: “People tend to adjust to the water hardness they’re in, so they usually notice a difference when they travel,” says Jennifer Marsh, PhD, a researcher at P&G Beauty, and author of the study. The result: Too much calcium and magnesium can make your hair stiffer and less shiny than usual, while not enough can leave strands looking limp. Make sure you know the H2O before your upcoming summer vacation—it’ll help you pack your products accordingly. Check out this map to see how the water hardness of your destination compares to your hometown. In general, the water is soft in New England, South Atlantic-Gulf States, the Pacific Northwest, and Hawaii, so you’ll want to bring a volumizing product if your travels take you there. The water in Texas, New Mexico, Kansas, Arizona, and southern California is hard, per the USGS Office of Water Quality. So bring a buildup-reducing product, like Malibu C Hard Water Treatment, to these states, as we said in Is Tap Water Behind Your Bad Hair Day?
