Water is a fundamental part of our lives. We drink it, bath in it and clean with it. However in many regions, including Kent, hard water, characterised by a high concentration of minerals like calcium and magnesium, is a common problem.
For most people, hard water may be a nuisance due to its effects on cleaning and plumbing. But for individuals with sensitive skin or conditions such as eczema, hard water can significantly exacerbate their symptoms. A water softener, which removes these hard minerals, can be a practical solution.
Eczema is a chronic condition that causes the skin to become dry, itchy and inflamed. While the exact cause of eczema is still under scientific investigation, certain triggers like allergens, irritants and even hard water are known to worsen the condition. A study conducted by the University of Sheffield and King's College London in 2018 suggested that hard water could increase the risk of eczema in infants. The research argued that the minerals in hard water can disrupt the skin's natural barrier, making it more susceptible to irritants and allergens.
Hard water poses a dual threat to eczema sufferers. First, the mineral deposits can leave a residue on the skin, leading to dryness and irritation. This residue can disrupt the skin's PH balance, making it less able to retain moisture and more susceptible to environmental irritants. Second, the high mineral content makes it harder fo soap to lather and rinse off properly. As a result, soap residue may be left behind, clogging pores and further irritating the skin.
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A water softener can provide a solution to these problems by using ion-exchange resins to replace the calcium and magnesium in the water with salt. The result is 'soft' water which lathers more easily with soap and leaves fewer mineral deposits on the skin. This can be particularly beneficial for people with eczema.
By mitigating the damaging effects of hard water, a water softener can help maintain the skin's natural moisture barrier, which is often compromised in people with eczema. With a stronger moisture barrier, the skin is better equipped to keep out potential irritants and allergens, reducing the frequency and severity of eczema flare-ups. What's more, because soft water allows soap to lather and rinse off more effectively, it reduces the likleihood of soap residue on the skin, thereby minimising the risk of clogged pores and further irritation.
Additionally, water softeners can indirectly support eczema management by improving the effectiveness of eczema treatments. Many topical treatments for eczema, including emollients and corticosteroids, are designed to restore the skin's moisture barrier. By reducing the drying and irritation effects of hard water, water softeners can enhance the efficacy of these treatments. Despite these potential benefits it's important to remember that eczema is a complex condition with multiple triggers and factors and what works for one person may not work for another. While a water softener can alleviate some of the skin irritations caused by hard water, it may not eliminate all eczema symptoms. Therefore, the use of a water softener should be considered as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, rather than a standalone solution.
Investing in a water softener could be one of the best investments you make. When you think about the potential benefits for those with eczema and other skin conditions, it is worth seriously considering, particularly for those who live in areas with very hard water.
For more information on how a water softener could protect you and your family, download more information here:
