While you're on the hunt for a flawless complexion, it's easy to focus on your skin care habits and healthy lifestyle. However, there is one aspect that is often overlooked: the quality of the water you use. Unfortunately, not all water is created equal, and unfiltered water is imperceptibly damaging to the health of your skin.
Raw water contains many potentially harmful substances such as chlorine, heavy metals, minerals and bacteria. These pollutants penetrate the skin barrier and can lead to various skin problems over time.
The effect of impure water on the skin
According to Healthline, the average tap water has a pH of 7, which is very bad for your skin. This is partly because the chemicals in raw water can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation, as well as damage to the moisture barrier. Bacteria in untreated water can also cause acne breakouts. Bacteria that penetrate the skin clog the pores and lead to inflammation.
Chlorine is a chemical to watch out for when it comes to raw water. It's often added to tap water as a disinfectant, but it can disrupt your skin's pH balance and natural protective barrier. According to a report from the Colorado Springs Dermatology Clinic, excessive exposure to chlorine can make your skin more prone to dryness and itchiness.
Protect your skin
Although unclean water may seem scary, finding a cure is not difficult. According to DermStore, the first and most important thing you can do is buy a tap water filter. A good filter effectively removes impurities, chlorine and heavy metals from tap water, ensuring that only clean water reaches the skin. It is also important to use hot water as it removes the essential natural oils.
The effect of untreated water on the skin may not be immediately noticeable, but the effect can be significant. If you're aiming for healthy, glowing skin, don't forget the importance of water quality in your skin care. Using purified water for skin care may be a better option in the long run.
The post "Unfiltered water can damage your skin" was originally published in 2199.