Hard water is defined by its high concentration of minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium, which water absorbs as it moves through soil and rock, or is added to it to help kill bacteria.

“Nearly all of the water in the world contains chlorine, heavy metals and other contaminants, which contribute to many common skin and hair issues, such as dry skin, damaged hair, changes in hair colour and [potentially] rashes or irritation.”

What is soft water?

Unlike hard water, soft water undergoes natural or artificial processes, significantly reducing its mineral content. This type of water is gentler on the skin and hair, helping to preserve natural oils. It can also enhance the effectiveness of soaps and detergents by producing more lather.

In household settings, soft water also prevents the build-up of mineral scale in pipes and in appliances, thereby extending their lifespan and improving their efficiency.

“We chlorinate our water across nearly every water system to disinfect and kill bacteria such as E coli, but that chlorine doesn’t need to be there when we shower,” Morse explained.

What is the impact of hard water on skin and hair?

Morse explained that hard water can irritate our skin “and potentially lead to eczema, itchiness, hives and rashes”.

For hair, hard water often leaves behind a residue that can make hair feel stiff and straw-like, reduce shine, and complicate efforts to rinse out shampoo and conditioner effectively. “It can break down the [essential] amino acids in our hair, depleting its natural strength. Additionally, it can react with the natural [pigment-producing substance] melanin in our hair, changing the colour of your hair,” Morse added.

How to soften your water at home

Several solutions are available nowadays to combat the effects of hard water. Water softeners, which replace calcium and magnesium with sodium or potassium ions, can drastically reduce water hardness.

Shower filters, which are easy to install, can also remove some minerals and impurities, though they may not be as effective as full-scale water softeners. Brands like Jolie Skin, Kitsch and Hello Klean have had a strong presence on social media with their filters in the past year, helping people enjoy the benefits of soft water on a regular basis.

Water conditioners offer another solution, using various filtration and infusion methods to alter the characteristics of minerals in the water without completely removing them.