The Health Consequences of Using Hard Water

Hard water, or water that is high in mineral content, is a well-known cause of stained appliances and fixtures, as well as long-term damage to plumbing. But did you know that exposing your body to hard water when showering, handwashing, and performing other hygiene tasks can actually affect your body?

The best water softeners will remove hard minerals from your water so it's soft, comfortable to use, and safe for your body. Before you shop, you should learn the importance of softening your water. These are the most well-known health effects of using hard water on your body.

The Misconception

While research shows that there are no risks of disease, cancers, or other long-term adverse health effects from using hard water, this doesn't mean that hard water is the healthiest water you can use. Also, this research leaves out the immediate effects that mineral-rich water has on your body. The best water softeners will remove minerals from water that have the following effects on your hair, skin, and other areas.

Hair

Minerals are difficult to rinse away, and those deposits of calcium, magnesium, and other minerals can collect on your body after showering or bathing. Your hair is particularly prone to collecting minerals. The water can make your hair feel limp, callous, and even straw-like. Not only will your hair be unmanageable, it will look less healthy overall.

Also, minerals can make your scalp dry, itchy, or flaky. Those with dandruff should seriously consider using salt free water softeners. You may see a sudden decline in dandruff.

Skin

The minerals in hard water can dry out your skin every time you wash your hands, face, and/or body. Its most common indirect effect on your skin is to make soap and body wash more difficult to rinse away, leaving behind deposits on your skin. This can lead to itchy, flaky, and irritated skin.

Dry skin is also more likely to age quickly. Dryness can also irritate some skin conditions, including eczema and psoriasis.

Some people even believe that hard water can dry out the inside of your mouth, which makes your mouth more prone to health conditions associated with bacteria. Dry mouths are less likely to be clean and healthy.

If your home has hard water, you should immediately research the best water softeners for your plumbing. The sooner you soften your water, the sooner you'll have a healthier body.