What Hidden Dangers Lurk in your Morning Shower?

Chlorine is a commonly used household cleaner and disinfectant, widely added to all municipal water supplies, and used as an oxidizing agent in water treatment and chemical processes. However, according to the EPA, chlorine is also a potent irritant to the eyes, upper respiratory tract, and lungs, and chronic exposure to chlorine gas can result in airflow obstruction, respiratory effects, sinus conditions, and eye/throat irritation.

Unfortunately, chlorine cannot be avoided, as it is an extremely important chemical used in water purification and disinfecting. It is highly effective in killing bacteria and other microorganisms in drinking water supplies and swimming pools. However, although chlorine is universally used to disinfect water, it is not necessarily safe for drinking, bathing, or even showering.

In terms of acute effects, several acute studies have shown that chlorine can cause tickling of the nose, tickling of the throat, itching of the nose, coughing, drying of the throat, burning of the conjunctiva, and after just 15 minutes of exposure, pain and discomfort ranging from ocular and respiratory irritation to coughing, shortness of breath, and headaches can occur. At higher levels of chlorine exposure, inhalation can lead to noncardiogenic pulmonary edema, and prolonged dermal contact can lead to chemical burns or ulcerations.

With respect to aging, regular exposure to chlorine can age the skin much like extended exposure to sunlight, and itchiness and flakiness can occur.

Chlorine is also detrimental to hair, as the structure of hair is vulnerable to drying agents, and chlorine can suck the sebum (the natural lubricant that protects your hair cuticle) out of hair, causing cracked cuticles, diminished sheen, and even split ends.

While the use of lotions or conditioners may seem to temporarily alleviate the effects of chlorine exposure, unfiltered shower and bath water can still increase one's exposure to chlorine by absorbing through the skin and by inhalation of chlorine vapors. In addition, hard water (or water that has a high mineral content) can also be nuisance in the shower. Hard water usually contains high levels of calcium and magnesium which can cause lime scale build-up and insoluble salt residue, with states such as Texas, New Mexico, Kansas, Arizona, and California having the highest levels of hard water.

Thankfully, the use of relatively inexpensive chlorine-removing shower filters and bath filters can help eliminate chlorinated and mineralized water at the source and invigorate your lungs, rejuvenate your skin, and restore your hair's natural luster. In addition to removing harmful chlorine, these types of filters can also help reduce soap scum, rust, dirt, eliminate unpleasant odors, and prevent dry skin and hair. As well as providing the benefits of chlorine removal and aiding in the reduction of soap scum, many types of shower filters can also help balance the pH of your water, therefore allowing for better sudsing and cleaning. Impurities are filtered out; and softened, pH-balanced water leaves your skin and hair healthier and cleaner.

For even greater protection against chlorinated water, consider a whole house water filter. While these units need to be installed and are a bit pricier than standard shower filters, they can often help filter out other impurities from your water supply besides chlorine, such as bacteria and microorganisms, and are a great way to ensure that your family is getting the best water possible.