Showerhead filters are comparable to filters used for drinking tap water and can remove impurities in municipal water sources, such as chlorine and chloramines (disinfectants), as well as calcium, copper, and magnesium. “These minerals and chemicals can dry out or irritate your hair and skin,” says Camp.
Dr. Brandon Kirsch, a board-certified dermatologist at Kirsch Dermatology in Naples, Florida, further explained that water with high concentrations of calcium and magnesium is known as “hard water.” “Although ingestion at levels found in tap water is generally safe, it can have cosmetic and dermatological effects, including drying hair and skin and worsening conditions such as eczema,” he said. spoke.
Both experts agreed that shower filters can improve the quality and texture of both skin and hair, and can enhance the effectiveness of hair products. “Without the residue of these compounds, products may be able to penetrate hair and skin more effectively,” Camp said.
If you’re not sure if you really need a shower water filter, you can look for signs that the water in your regular shower head is causing problems. “If your skin feels overly dry and itchy after a shower, it may be caused by chlorine or hard water minerals,” Kirsch says. “Chlorine and hard water minerals also strip your hair of its natural oils, making it look dull. Chlorine in particular can cause color-treated hair to fade faster.”
You can also look out for warning signs around your shower. Camp pointed out that scale, which refers to the buildup of minerals on showerheads and bathroom tiles, can indicate high mineral content in the shower water. He also says that before purchasing a showerhead filter, “consider doing an online search to determine whether the water source in your area has high mineral content or hard water. ” he also said.
