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It's easy to spot the difference between bottled Fiji water and regular tap water—especially if the tap water hasn't been filtered. But many assume all untreated water is the same, which isn't true. We spoke to a dermatologist who revealed some concerning facts.
Hard Water vs. Soft Water: What Sets Them Apart?
Hard water contains high levels of dissolved minerals like calcium and magnesium. In the bathroom, these minerals can leave behind a chalky residue on surfaces, often removed with a shower cleaner. The cloudy film is particularly noticeable on glass, so a cleaner for glass shower doors works well. When hard water stains combine with soap residue, a soap scum remover might be more effective. In the kitchen, dishes and glassware often don't look clean without a dishwasher detergent designed for hard water. Additionally, using unfiltered hard water in electric kettles can lead to mineral deposits. In contrast, soft water tends to have more sodium. Water hardness levels vary by state, with places like New Mexico, Utah, Indiana, and Florida having higher concentrations, while others have less.
How Does This Impact Our Skin?
Although hard water is rich in essential minerals and often favored for drinking and cooking, it can be harsh on both your skin and hair. "Calcium and magnesium in hard water interact with the fatty acids in your soap and shampoo, creating coagulating chemicals," says Tess Mauricio, a board-certified dermatologist from Beverly Hills. "As a result, your skin doesn't get thoroughly cleaned, and these chemicals leave a residue on your skin."
This residue can gradually weaken your skin's protective barrier. "It clogs your pores, which can cause acne and worsen skin conditions like eczema and dermatitis," explains Mauricio. Additionally, hard water affects the scalp, leading to dryness and that bothersome itch. "With long-term use, your hair might lose its color and appear less shiny," she notes.
Though it may not be immediately noticeable, those with hard water may observe that soap and shampoo don’t lather as effectively. Your skin might also feel like there's a lingering residue, leaving it less "clean" even after rinsing.
So, here's the big question: How damaging is it really? If you haven’t experienced significant side effects, like dryness or skin irritation, from your untreated water, you can likely go without filtering—many people don’t even realize they have hard water. However, if you notice negative effects, particularly after washing or showering, you might want to adjust your water exposure.
This is especially crucial for individuals with sensitive skin, psoriasis, or eczema, whose skin barrier isn't strong enough to handle the harsh minerals. "Continuous use of hard water for cleaning can irritate the skin and worsen these conditions," says Mauricio. "Even washing clothes in hard water can cause irritation for those with extremely sensitive skin." Not only does hard water reduce the effectiveness of laundry detergent, but it can also cause buildup inside the washing machine—making it important to regularly use a washing machine cleaner.
This can also explain why your skin reacts differently when you travel. Since water hardness varies by location, even a simple shower can have vastly different effects. "When you’re used to hard water and visit a place with softened water, the change in your skin and hair will be immediate. Your skin will feel smoother and cleaner," explains Mauricio.
If you notice your skin improves noticeably when you travel, it's likely due to the difference in water quality. For these individuals (and those who experience irritation immediately after showering), installing a good mineral filter on your faucet and shower head is a smart solution.
There are additional steps you can take during and after your shower to minimize the effects of hard water. Consider using micellar water, like Vichy Purete Thermal Mineral Micellar Water For Sensitive Skin, which removes tiny particles and doesn't require rinsing. La Roche-Posay Lipikar Wash Ap+ is a top choice for best body washes for dry skin because it protects against the damaging effects of hard water. For your hair, clarifying shampoos or astringents like apple cider vinegar contain chelating agents that bind to the minerals in your hair, helping to wash them away. Aveeno Apple Cider Vinegar Blend is one of our favorite drugstore shampoos.
"Avoid using hot water, as it can further dry out your skin," advises Sejal Shah, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. "After washing, gently pat your skin dry, and while it’s still damp, apply a moisturizer with hydrating ingredients that strengthen the skin barrier, like ceramides and niacinamide. A great multi-purpose moisturizer for dry skin to try is CeraVe. This will help you achieve the best skin results."
