Hard Water & Dry Skin

Hard Water Can Flare Eczema, Psoriasis & Dry Skin
Adapted from https://www.realsimple.com/beauty-fashion/skincare/hard-water-skin

Hard Water vs. Soft Water: What's the Difference?

Hard water is the term used to describe water high in dissolved minerals, largely calcium and magnesium. On the flip side, soft water tends to have higher concentrations of sodium. Some states have higher concentrations of hardness in their water (like New Mexico, Utah, Indiana, and Florida), whereas others have less.

What Does This Mean for Our Skin?

Since hard water contains essential minerals, it is sometimes the preferred drinking (and cooking) water. However, this takes quite a toll on skin and hair. "Calcium and magnesium in hard water react with fatty acids in your soap and shampoo to form chemicals that coagulate," says Tess Mauricio, a board-certified dermatologist in Beverly Hills. "As a result, your skin doesn't get cleaned properly and the chemicals leave a residue on your skin."

Over time, this skin residue can disrupt the skin barrier. "It causes your pores to clog up, which, in turn, can lead to acne and exacerbate skin conditions like eczema and dermatitis." And that's not all: Hard water can affect the skin on your scalp, too, causing dryness and that telltale itch. "You may notice your hair lose its color and not look as shiny with long-term use," says Mauricio.

Although it's impossible to tell the difference at first glance (or taste), people with hard water might notice that soap and shampoo don't lather as well. Your skin might also feel like there is a layer of residue and doesn't feel as "clean" even after rinsing. If you find that you're experiencing negative effects (especially right after washing or showering), you might want to tweak your water exposure.

This is especially true for people with sensitive skin, psoriasis, or eczema, whose skin barrier isn't strong enough to withstand all the hard minerals. "Chronic use of hard water for cleansing can irritate the skin and make these conditions worse," says Mauricio. "For those with really sensitive skin, even laundering clothes in hard water can cause skin irritation."

This can also explain why your skin changes (for the better or worse) when you travel. Because different locations have different levels of hardness, even a standard shower can reap drastically different effects. "When you are used to hard water and travel to a place with a water softener, the changes on your skin and hair will be noticeable immediately. Your skin will feel smoother and cleaner," says Mauricio.

If you've noticed that your skin improves dramatically when you travel elsewhere, there's a high chance that your water is to blame.

Refer back to our page on Residential Water Softening!