Showering is a daily ritual that many of us look forward to. It's a time to relax, unwind, and wash away the stresses of the day. However, have you ever stopped to consider what's in the water that's flowing from your showerhead? One common chemical found in tap water is chlorine, which can have a range of effects on your skin. In this blog post, we'll explore how chlorine affects your skin and provide practical ways to reduce its impact on your skin.
Why is Chlorine Bad for You?
Let’s address the bad boy in this class: Chlorine. So, what is chlorine, and why is it such a fuss for many? Chlorine is a highly reactive, greenish-yellow gas with a distinctive, pungent odour. Widely recognised for its potent disinfectant properties, chlorine is extensively employed in water treatment facilities, swimming pools, and various cleaning products due to its effectiveness in eradicating harmful microorganisms. Beyond its role as a disinfectant, chlorine is a crucial component in the production of plastics, solvents, pesticides, and pharmaceuticals, playing a significant role in various industrial processes. A tough show indeed!
So, what are the effects of this element in our daily lives? Let’s find out:
Dries Out Your Skin
Chlorine is a powerful disinfectant, and while it effectively kills harmful microorganisms in water, it doesn't discriminate between bad and good. When it comes into contact with your skin, it strips away the natural oils that act as a protective barrier. These oils help to lock in moisture, keeping your skin hydrated and supple. When they're removed, your skin can become dry, flaky, and prone to irritation.
Irritates Your Eyes and Scalp
Have you ever noticed your eyes turning red or feeling itchy after a long shower? This is often a sign of chlorine irritation. The eyes are particularly sensitive to chlorine, and even at low concentrations, it can cause redness, stinging, and discomfort. Similarly, the scalp can be affected. Chlorine can disrupt the natural balance of oils on your scalp, potentially leading to dryness, itching, and dandruff.
Disrupts the Skin's Microbiome
Your skin is a party hub for a diverse community of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses. This community, collectively known as the skin microbiome, plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy skin. Chlorine is a powerful antimicrobial agent, and, unfortunately, it doesn't discriminate between good and bad bacteria. This disruption can lead to an imbalance in your skin's microbiome, potentially causing irritation, inflammation, and an increased susceptibility to skin issues.
Accelerates Skin Aging
Chlorine can contribute to premature ageing of the skin. One of the main reasons for this is its ability to break down collagen and elastin fibres. Collagen provides structure and elasticity to the skin, while elastin allows it to stretch and bounce back. Over time, exposure to chlorine can weaken these fibres, leading to wrinkles, sagging, and a loss of youthful firmness. So next time someone gives you that “old” look, blame chlorine for it!
Exacerbates Skin Conditions
For individuals with existing skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea, chlorine can be particularly problematic. Its drying and irritating effects can exacerbate these conditions, leading to more frequent flare-ups and increased discomfort.
Ways to Get Rid of Chlorine in Showers
Fortunately, there are several effective ways to reduce the amount of chlorine in your shower water. Here are some ways to get rid of chlorine in showers:
Install a Shower Filter
A high-quality shower filter can significantly reduce the amount of chlorine in your water. Look for a filter that specifically targets chlorine and other common contaminants. Luckily for you, StoneStream has just the right solution for that! Try the EcoPower water-saving showerhead by Stonestream. With a mineral bead filtration system consisting of a mixture of 3 germanium stones, you can always bye-bye to chlorine-infused water and say hi to new, lush skin!
Original Ecopower Shower head
Buy Now
Take Shorter, Cooler Showers
Hot water can open up your pores, making your skin more susceptible to chlorine absorption. Taking shorter, cooler showers can help minimise this effect. For example, navy showers are becoming popular due to the less amount of time and water they tend to take. So, try a navy shower for a new experience for both you and your skin.
Wondering what are navy showers and how to take one? Check out this article!
Use Chlorine-Neutralizing Products
There are a variety of skincare products available that are designed to neutralise chlorine. Look for shampoos, conditioners, and body washes that specifically mention chlorine removal.
Consider Vitamin C Infusion
Vitamin C can effectively neutralise chlorine. Consider using a vitamin C-infused showerhead, such as the Matte Black showerhead by Stonestream, or a filter to help remove chlorine from your water.
Black Ecopower Shower Head
Buy Now
Check out StoneStream’s universal hard water shower filter for your daily shower needs and satisfaction!
Chrome Hard Water shower filter Add-on
Buy Now
Now that you know the various effects of chlorine and the ways to get rid of it, it’s time to take action towards a more proactive self. Being mindful of the water you use in your shower can have a significant impact on the health and appearance of your skin. By understanding the effects of chlorine and implementing these practical solutions, you can enjoy a refreshing and beneficial shower experience. Invest in a shower filter, choose chlorine-neutralizing products, and consider other strategies to protect your skin from the harsh effects of chlorine. Your skin will thank you for it!
Say Bye to Chlorine with the EcoPower showerhead!
Is chlorine making your life miserable? Is your skin feeling much rougher than your work? Fear not with the EcoPower showerhead by Stonestream. This one hell of a champion is there to take all your shower conundrums away and make your life a living heaven, at least during your showers. The EcoPower showerhead comes with various features, such as:
- 200% increase in water flow velocity
- 35% reduction in water consumption
- Has mineral stones that filter water and remove impurities such as chlorine, dirt, sand, bacteria, and limescale
- Mineral stones soften water and make it suitable for the skin and hair
- Has 3 spray settings - rainfall, jetting, and massage
- Has an Eco Stop button to pause water flow and maintain the water temperature
- Easy to install and universally compatible
- Comes with a 1-year warranty
Order one now and let your skin be happy for being with you! Check out the other range of products by Stonestream to transform your shower hours into happy hours!
Also Read: 5 Benefits of using StoneStream showerheads over Regular Showerheads
FAQs
-
What are the effects of chlorine on skin and hair?
Ans. Chlorine can dry out skin, leading to irritation, flakiness, and exacerbating conditions like eczema. It can also strip natural oils from the scalp, potentially causing dryness and dandruff. In hair, it can lead to dryness, frizz, and colour fading. -
Can using a shower filter completely remove chlorine from water?
Ans. A high-quality shower filter can significantly reduce chlorine levels, but it may not eliminate it entirely. It's essential to choose a filter designed specifically for chlorine removal and replace it regularly for optimal effectiveness. -
Are there any health risks associated with chlorine exposure in showers?
Ans. While short-term exposure to chlorine in showers is generally considered safe for most individuals, prolonged exposure to high levels of chlorine fumes can potentially lead to respiratory irritation. Those with pre-existing respiratory conditions should take precautions.
-
Can chlorine in shower water cause skin allergies or sensitivities?
Ans. Yes, chlorine can potentially trigger skin allergies or sensitivities, especially in individuals with pre-existing skin conditions. It can disrupt the skin's natural balance, leading to irritation, redness, and increased sensitivity. -
Are there any alternatives to removing chlorine from shower water?Ans. Besides using a shower filter, another effective method is installing a vitamin C-infused showerhead or filter. Vitamin C neutralises chlorine effectively. Additionally, choosing chlorine-neutralizing skincare products like shampoos and body washes can help mitigate its effects.
