Philadelphia
United States · North America
The water
139 mg/LHard
Source: Philadelphia Water Department · Official figure. Hardness counts dissolved calcium and magnesium in the water; it is the number your hair meets in the shower.
What hard water does to hair
Calcium and magnesium deposit steadily at this level, roughening the cuticle so hair looks duller, tangles more and loses colour faster. A regular chelating (detox) wash is what keeps it in check.
The washing routine for Philadelphia
Build a chelating (detox) wash into the rhythm, about every fourth wash, with a gentle everyday shampoo between detox days. Condition well after each wash; minerals roughen the cuticle, and colour-treated hair fades faster here.
Climate, from recent records (Open-Meteo, ERA5 2015-2024): July is the warmest month, averaging 31°C by day, and humidity peaks in August at about 71% 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.
Plugs and power for your tools
Sockets: Type A and B. Supply: 120 V, 60 Hz.
Full sockets by the sink are standard (the National Electrical Code requires one within 3 feet of each basin, GFCI protected).
A dryer or styler wound for 230 V only will run weak on this supply, and a plug adapter does not change voltage. Check the label for dual voltage (100-240 V) before you travel.
Plug, voltage and frequency: IEC World Plugs and national standards.
Plan Philadelphia 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.