We all do it from time to time. We stand over the sink, turn on the tap, and splash water on our face. What could be wrong with some good old-fashioned skincare?
Perhaps a lot. While tap water is generally safe, certain circumstances may make it unsuitable for activities like face washing. Let’s look at some reasons why you should be careful using tap water to clean your face and consider when you should filter or use bottled water instead.
1. Hard Water Can Irritate Your Skin
Does your soap struggle to lather? You might have hard water. Hard water contains high levels of dissolved minerals like calcium and magnesium. These minerals can leave a residue on your skin, which clogs pores and causes dryness.
Over time, this residue buildup can lead to skin irritation, acne, and even eczema flare-ups. If your home has hard water, you can fix it by installing a water softener. What homeowners should know when buying a water softener is that it works through a process called ion exchange. This process replaces hard minerals, like calcium and magnesium, with sodium ions, which are much gentler on your skin.
2. It May Contain Chlorine
Water treatment facilities add chlorine to tap water to kill harmful bacteria and viruses. This process makes the water safe to drink. A small amount of chlorine in your water is not a problem for most people.
For individuals with sensitive skin, though, chlorine can be quite drying and irritating. It strips the skin of its natural oils, which leaves it feeling tight and itchy. A carbon-based water filter can effectively remove chlorine from your tap water.
3. Your Pipes Could Be Leaching Contaminants
Older homes sometimes have pipes made from lead or other materials that can leach contaminants into the water. Lead, for example, is a heavy metal that poses serious health risks.
Even small amounts of contaminants can affect your skin’s health, which may cause rashes and other issues. If you live in an older home, have your water tested for contaminants. If tests come back positive, avoid using tap water to wash your face, among other things, until you can get the issue fixed.
4. Unseen Bacteria May Lurk
Although public water systems are treated, bacteria can still find their way into the water supply. A break in a water main or issues with your home’s plumbing can introduce microorganisms.
Washing your face with contaminated water can transfer these bacteria to your skin. This transfer could result in infections or acne, especially if you have any small cuts or open pores.
When to Be Cautious with Your Tap Water
Most likely, your tap water is safe to use for your daily routine. But if you notice issues like dryness, irritation, or sudden breakouts, your tap water could be contaminated, and you should stop using it to clean your face. Invest in a water filter or switch to bottled water for your skincare regimen and see if your skin issues clear up.
