Photo by Hannah Xu on Unsplash

The phenomenon that we term ‘hard water’ is formed when particles from calcium and magnesium are deposited in water increasing the mineral levels. Hard water causes lime scale to form in showers and kettles, but what most people don’t know is that it can be the cause of skin irritation and dryness of hair. The same residue that we see on our kettle is also damaging to the natural layer that protects our skin. Basically, If you suffer with dry skin, and you’ve exhausted all possible causes of your dry, flaky and acne prone skin then hard water could be the cause!

 

Hard water is difficult to rinse away and the residue it leaves behind can block the pores, leading to irritation and in most cases acne and severe dryness. The impurities that are found within hard water damage the skin cells and prevent them from fully replenishing, a major cause of fine lines and wrinkles.

Apart from the extreme act of moving to a soft water postcode or spending extortionate amounts of money on fitting filtering systems into your home, help is at hand with some effective hair and skincare treatments.

Use A Toner

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A toner will ensure that any residue left on the skin is taken off. The Funderm Clean Master Toner, £19.00, from funderm.com whisks away pore-clogging oil and flakes, helping to tighten your pores and reveal a clearer complexion. These ingredients work in harmony, so your skin looks beautiful, purified and balanced. This refreshing toner has an innovative and powerful prebiotic and probiotic complex with clinically proven active ingredients that will leave your skin feeling fresh and purified.

Apply A Lotion

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Hard water will dry out skin so by using a rich body moisturizer like the Embryolisse Lait-Crème Fluide, £28.00, from lookfantastic.com you can prevent dry flaky skin by replenishing moisture. This lotion utilises Shea Butter and Aloe Vera to nurture and nourish the skin. Quickly absorbed, it can be used as a body moisturiser, facial makeup remover, soothing after-sun, hydrating masque or after-shave care to leave all skin types soft and supple.

Purify Your Hair And Scalp

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Hard water can also cause damage and dry out the hair and scalp. Treat hair dryness and built up of dirt on the scalp by using the SheaMoisture African Black Soap Bamboo Charcoal Purification Masque, £12.99, from lookfantastic.com This shampoo gives your locks a deeply nourishing treatment. Working to inject moisture and hydration into every strand, the masque leaves your hair much softer and smoother than before with a healthy shine. Ingredients like Tea Tree Oil, African Black Soap, Willow Bark Extract and Bamboo Charcoal work together to sooth sensitivity and calm irritation. This treatment also balances your scalp, washing away impurities and build-ups to leave you feeling more comfortable.