Hard water can dry out the skin, leave a sticky feeling from soap residue, and in more severe cases, cause eczema. Investing in a shower head equipped with a limescale filter or a water softening system for the whole house can eliminate the underlying problem. This can also be remedied by moisturizing the skin immediately after washing it, using a chelating shampoo, or simply using less soap. There are other solutions, including treating the water with aluminum sulfate, washing your face with bottled water, or taking the opportunity to shower elsewhere.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Countering the Effects of Hard Water
Step 1. Moisturize your skin after washing it
Using hard water on a regular basis can dry out and irritate it. It counteracts any damage by moisturizing it immediately after showering, bathing or cleansing the face. Apply generous doses of cream to face and body (choose a rich and thick product).
- After washing, an alcohol-free toner can also be used to remove traces of minerals and heavy metals.
- Warm coconut oil is equally effective for deeply moisturizing the skin.
Step 2. Use a chelating shampoo
Hard water can leave mineral deposits on the hair and scalp, drying them out. Counteract the effect by buying a chelating shampoo: it contains an active ingredient that binds to hard water minerals and helps eliminate them. In pharmacies, perfumeries or on the internet, look for a product containing EDTA, or ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid.
Also start using a sulfate-free shampoo or cleanser, which can react to the metals and minerals in hard water
Step 3. Use less soap
Hard water complicates the dissolution of the soap. As a result, accumulations of product can remain on the skin that can trigger numerous adverse effects (such as dryness and irritation). Using less soap can counteract this effect, as it decreases a potential buildup. When washing, concentrate more soap on areas prone to frequent sweating (such as the armpits), while using it sparingly on the rest of the body.
Method 2 of 3: Use a Water Softening System
Step 1. Buy a descaling shower head
If the tap water is hard and you want to run for cover, initially install a descaling shower head instead of considering a more elaborate system. Product available online or from hardware stores, it is based on the use of replaceable filters that allow you to purify the water. Installation is simple: it would be like changing an old shower head. The system starts working immediately, softening the shower water.
Step 2. If you want to soften the water in your entire house, install a complete system
Ask neighbors or friends for advice and find out about companies offering this service in the area. Just consider that it involves higher costs.
- Before making a purchase, ask various companies for a quote and compare the rates.
- Some municipalities ban these systems as they use salts and resins to remove contaminants. Find out about the regulations in the place where you live.
Step 3. Rent a water softening system
Contact a company that offers this type of service. It can be a more affordable choice for a small home, apartment, or vacation home. The rental also allows you to understand if it is worth investing in a complete system for your home.
Method 3 of 3: Avoid Using Hard Water
Step 1. Add aluminum sulfate to the water
Calculate about 15ml of aluminum sulfate for a bucket of water. Once the minerals have clotted and settled at the bottom, remove the water from the surface of the bucket with a cup or small container. Use it to wash your face or do a sponging.
Step 2. Wash your face with bottled water
If washing with tap water causes significant adverse effects (such as irritation or redness), try washing your face with mineral water. Although the costs seem high, it can be worth it if you have particularly sensitive skin. Make sure you use enough water to efficiently rinse the skin and prevent product buildup.
Alternatively, you can try a no rinse cleansing water. Some of these products cleanse and moisturize the face at the same time. Distilled water is another possible solution
Step 3. Shower elsewhere whenever you get the chance
If you have the opportunity to wash somewhere else (for example in the gym or swimming pool), take advantage of it as often as possible. Reducing contact with hard water can minimize overall damage to the skin. Don't forget to bring your face cleanser too.
