Hard water and skin problems can go hand in hand. Hard water is generally considered more of a nuisance than a health issue.
When people use water conditioners to eliminate hard water from their homes, they do so to protect their fixtures and appliances, to improve the appearance of clothing after it is washed, and to stop scale buildup on ceramic tile and shower doors, as well as spots on their glasses and dishes.
But a recent study from England offers another reason to keep hard water away from your home and your family. It suggests that hard water may damage our protective skin barrier, which can lead to the development of such skin conditions as eczema.
Those most vulnerable to eczema are infants. According to Web MD, between 10% and 20% of babies and small children will contract this itchy skin infection.
Hard water could also worsen existing skin conditions such as psoriasis. In fact, psoriasis is not just a skin condition but it can consequently lead to joint pain (known as psoriatic arthritis), depressive symptoms, and lower quality of life. Nowadays, there are more natural remedies out there (know the connection between medical marijuana and psoriasis) to help diminish and manage symptoms. However, using hard water should be a complete no-no for people with this condition.
Hard water contains higher levels of calcium and magnesium ions, that can stick to skin and also stick to the soap that we use for washing. Prolonged exposure reduces the skin’s natural defenses.
In addition to an increased eczema risk, a compromised skin barrier could also contribute to the development of other conditions, including sunburn. However, a variety of products such as an eczema relief cream or acne reduction cream might help reduce such skin problems. Some doctors might even recommend using different kinds of topical steroids, which can be highly useful, no doubt. However, such methods might come along with the risk of topical steroid withdrawal, which can cause more irritation to the skin, and ultimately require therapy to get under control. Hence, it might be safest to stick to regular skincare products or the ones you trust. You can find the right ones for your skin by taking a quick look online. Little research into ingredients and properties of serums by reading a propaira review or others could be beneficial in deciding which product can work for specific issues. Nevertheless, water being a vital part of skincare and health, it becomes important to ensure its quality as well.
The researchers who prepared the study then looked into whether removing the calcium and magnesium ions using an ion-exchange water softener could halt the negative effects. And that’s exactly what it did.
The link between hard water and skin problems such as eczema is just one more reason to consider adding a water softener to your home.
At Dimewater Inc., our engineers are always prepared to help you choose the right water softener to meet your needs. Contact us at 760.734.5787.
