Are shower head filters worth it?
In the pursuit of healthy, vibrant hair, we often focus on the products we use and the treatments we apply. Yet, one crucial factor that is overlooked is the quality of the water we expose our hair to. Water quality varies greatly depending on geographical location, with some regions blessed with soft, mineral-free water, while others contend with the challenges of hard water loaded with minerals like calcium and magnesium.
In this guide, we'll explore the impact of unfiltered water on your hair and skin, delve into the potential benefits of using a shower filter, and offer tips on selecting the right shower filter for your needs.
What are the potential benefits of using a shower filter for hair health?
Water that has a high mineral content is often referred to as ‘hard’ or ‘unfiltered’ water, whereas water with a low content of minerals is known as ‘soft’ water. Hard water is formed when water passes through soil that is rich in minerals, such as limestone. The water seeps into the ground and as it passes, collects mineral ions such as calcium and magnesium, which creates hard water. Some regions have hard water, while others do not.
If you live in a region which does have hard water, using a shower filter can have benefits to your hair health. Unfiltered water often contains impurities such as chlorine, heavy metals, and other pollutants, which can create a film on your hair during the washing process. This film can make moisture difficult to penetrate to the hair shaft, resulting in dry, brittle, and dull hair. As well as this, the presence of these impurities can weigh the hair down, making it feel weakened and lacklustre. The build-up of residue can also leave behind deposits on the hair, making it more prone to breakage and appear duller too.
How can using unfiltered water impact your skin and hair?
If you have sensitive skin or conditions such as eczema or psoriasis, unfiltered water can exacerbate this. This is because unfiltered water often contains chlorine, which may trigger skin flare ups and lead to more inflammation whilst showering. These contaminants can strip the skin of its natural oils and disrupt its delicate PH balance, leading to more dryness and itchier skin.
Whilst a shower filter can help provide some benefits, the right haircare products will be the key to improving dry and brittle hair. SkincarebyDrV’s Thickening Shampoo contains salicylic acid, which is known for its exfoliating properties and helps remove excess sebum from the scalp. Also, glycerin, niacinamide and Vitamin A are incorporated to improve the health of your scalp whilst cleansing, so your hair growth follicles are strengthened. Our Cuticle Repair Conditioner will reduce frizz, improve shine, and hydrate the hair strands whilst showering. Triglycerides, shea butter, dimethicone and isodaucene are all great ingredients included to add moisture. All of our products are formulated to be ‘NAFE SAFE’ – meaning no denatured alcohol, fragrance, or essential oils in, as this can dry and damage your hair further.
What should we look for when purchasing a shower filter?
It’s important to understand your water quality concerns and do your research to find the best shower filter that fits your needs. For example, if you have dry and sensitive skin, look for filters that are certified to remove chlorine and other contaminants in hard water. Whereas if you would like better water pressure, look for shower filters with trusted reviews that mention this. You may also live in a region which has soft water, and therefore do not need a shower filter.
Additionally, consider the filter’s longevity and ease of maintenance, and weigh whether the benefits justify the cost. Avoid shower filters that require a complex installation process or does not last for a minimum of 3 months, as it may be an expensive investment in the long run. It may also be beneficial to look for filters with multiple filtration stages to address a broader range of impurities.
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