Durban
South Africa · Africa
The water
59 mg/LSoft
Source: Umgeni Water / Water Research Commission · Published figure. Hardness counts dissolved calcium and magnesium in the water; it is the number your hair meets in the shower.
What soft water does to hair
Expect easy lather and a clean rinse, with almost no mineral coating wash to wash. The common complaint in soft water is the opposite of damage: hair that feels too soft, flat at the roots and quick to fly away.
The washing routine for Durban
No special rhythm is needed. Keep your usual shampoo and spacing, lighten the conditioner if hair feels coated, and save the clarifying wash for the odd occasion rather than a schedule.
Climate, from recent records (Open-Meteo, ERA5 2015-2024): January is the warmest month, averaging 28°C by day, and humidity peaks in March at about 79% on average. In the hot months, sun and sweat do as much damage as the water: shade, a hat and a rinse after swimming carry the routine. In the humid months, frizz is the main event; anti-humidity styling matters more than wash frequency.
Plugs and power for your tools
Sockets: Type C, M and N. Supply: 230 V, 50 Hz.
A 120 V only dryer or styler (North American) will burn out on this supply, and a plug adapter does not change voltage. Check the label for dual voltage (100-240 V) before you plug in.
Plug, voltage and frequency: IEC World Plugs and national standards.
Plan Durban properly
The trip planner turns this water profile into a wash plan for your hair type, a chosen kit and a packing list, month by month.