Hard water—which is high in calcium, magnesium, and other minerals—causes buildup on your plumbing system, strips paint off fragile household items, discolors laundry, and leaves streaks on dishes. But in addition to these inconveniences, it can also impact your body. If the water flowing from your taps is loaded with minerals, take a moment to learn about the liquid’s adverse effect on the human body.

How Hard Water Impacts Skin, Hair, & the Body

1. Creates Dry, Dull Hair

Excessive mineral content in your home’s water often leaves hair looking dull and lifeless. The minerals make it challenging to completely rinse shampoo, conditioner, and other products from your hair, creating a filmy residue that dries strands out. The drier your hair gets, the more vulnerable it is to breakage and thinning. Hard water is also detrimental to color-treated tresses because it causes the coloring product to fade prematurely.

2. Interferes With Skin pH & Hydration

Hard water affects the health and appearance of your hair as well as your skin. Bathing in mineral-heavy water dries and irritates your skin,  as some of the minerals interrupt moisture absorption. The body’s pH level is also affected by moisture absorption issues. If you have eczema, psoriasis, or another sensitive skin problem, hard water will exacerbate it, resulting in further irritation, flaking, and redness.

3. May Contribute to Associated Diseases

Too many minerals in your water can also cause problems if you drink it. While calcium, magnesium, and other minerals are essential to good health in moderation, ingesting too many minerals over an extended period may contribute to assorted diseases. Studies have indicated links between serious hard water consumption and issues such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and Alzheimer’s disease among others. Plumbing professionals can detect high mineral levels in your water and correct the issue with water softening devices. 

If hard water is complicating things around your home, call the plumbing experts at The Plumbing & Heating Co. in Juneau, AK. A family-owned and -operated plumbing company for over 25 years, this business forges lifelong relationships with clients and always provides the most efficient services for affordable prices. Call (907) 789-3332 to schedule an appointment or visit their website to view their residential services.