Nitrates adversely affect the skin and hair follicles, leading to an alarming rate of hair loss
Preliminary investigations of hair, scalp, and nail samples have ruled out a fungal infection as the cause of the mysterious “bald virus” affecting several villages in the Shegaon taluka of Buldhana district of Maharashtra. According to medical experts, initial findings have suggested nitrate contamination in water that has led to people losing their hair.
However, officials say a final microbiology report—crucial for a definitive diagnosis—is expected by later this week. Meanwhile, a team of doctors from the Indian Council of Medical Research is set to visit the affected areas to conduct a comprehensive investigation.
Residents of several villages have reported severe hair loss, with men losing not only scalp hair but also their beards and body hair. The rapid spread of this unusual condition has sent shockwaves across the region, prompting the state health department to initiate an investigation into the cause.
Nitrates in tubewell water causing balding
According to the preliminary findings, the crisis is linked to the use of tube well water, which residents depend on for bathing and washing. The water samples tested revealed alarmingly high levels of nitrates and total dissolved solids (TDS). Experts say these chemicals are adversely affecting the skin and hair follicles, leading to an alarming rate of hair loss.
The health department said elevated nitrate levels were found in 14 of the 31 samples tested and has now warned residents to cease using tube well water immediately, labelling it a severe health hazard.
Experts say nitrates in water make it hard—along with dissolved compounds of magnesium and calcium that leave a film on your hair, making it difficult for your hair products to clean and moisturise your hair properly. Showering often with hard water can make your hair extra dry and susceptible to breakage.
If you continue to shower with hard water, breakage and other hair damage can ultimately lead to hair thinning as well. Experts say even though the damage to your hair may not seem like a huge deal right away, the long-term effects of hard water on your hair can severely affect your hair’s appearance and longevity.
Ways to protect your hair from chemicals
A few ways you can protect your hair from hair water ill-effects include:
Apply a moisturizing hair mask
Hard water makes it difficult for your hair to absorb all of the moisture it needs to stay soft and healthy, so applying a homemade and natural moisturising mask with aloe vera or coconut oil is a great option to make up for all of the missing moisture.
It helps provide hair with the oils and nutrients it needs to continue to grow and be healthy.
Try a lemon rinse
The acidity of lemon juice fights to remove buildup in your hair and restore its natural shine and smooth texture. All you need to make a lemon rinse is about a tablespoon of lemon juice and three cups of water. Mix these ingredients together and work them into your hair after you shampoo.
Apple cider vinegar
Another acidic rinse that helps remove mineral buildup and help fight against other hard water damage is an apple cider vinegar rinse. It helps enhance the shine and texture of your hair while protecting against the effects of water that is high in nitrates, pH, or other harmful minerals.
Mix around a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with a few cups of water and wash your hair with it.
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