Can Hard Water Cause Eczema? Understanding The Connection
The Ties Between Hard Water And Eczema
If you or a family member struggle with dry skin or frequent eczema flare-ups, your water quality might be to blame. Hard water and eczema are closely linked, particularly for homeowners in San Diego, CA. Water hardness levels are significantly higher than those in other areas of the United States, and that’s where Verday Smart Solutions comes in to lend a helping hand.
We understand how frustrating it can be to experience persistent skin issues — especially when the cause is something as essential as your home’s water. From eczema flare-ups to acne caused by hard water, these problems cause discomfort. Our Kinetico® water softeners are designed to help protect your skin and remove minerals responsible for dryness and irritation.
What Is Hard Water — Why Is It Common In San Diego?
Hard water refers to water with high levels of dissolved minerals. Calcium and magnesium are the most notorious contributors to water hardness and are naturally present in San Diego’s water supply. They can lead to a variety of household and personal issues, including:
- Limescale buildup on faucets and appliances
- Reduced water heater efficiency
- Dry, brittle hair
- Dry skin and eczema flare-ups
The average hardness of San Diego’s water is around 16 grains per gallon (gpg) — more than twice the level considered “hard” by the U.S. Department of Energy. With water this hard, the minerals can leave behind irritating residues on your skin after every shower. These problems contribute to hard water eczema rashes and chronic dryness.
How Hard Water Contributes To Eczema And Dry Skin
The connection between hard water and eczema isn’t just a theory — it’s backed by research. Below are the ways hard water impacts your skin health.
Mineral Residue On Skin
When you bathe in hard water, calcium and magnesium can settle on your skin. They form a film that disrupts your skin’s natural barrier. This barrier plays a critical role in retaining moisture and protecting against irritants. Once compromised, your skin is more vulnerable to hard water eczema rash and other forms of irritation.
Soap Scum And Reduced Cleansing Power
Hard water reacts with soap and body wash to create a sticky residue known as soap scum. This scum can cling to your skin, leaving it feeling dry and itchy, even right after bathing. For individuals with eczema-prone skin, this residue can clog pores and trigger flare-ups.
Strips Away Natural Oils
The minerals in hard water can strip away your skin’s natural oils, making it harder for your skin to maintain proper hydration. This leaves your skin feeling tight and flaky, making it more prone to environmental irritants.
Benefits Of Installing A Water Softener For Eczema Relief
A professionally installed water softener for eczema can improve your home’s water quality and help reduce skin irritation.
Removes Harsh Minerals
Water softeners remove calcium and magnesium through a process called ion exchange, replacing them with sodium or potassium ions. This process softens the water, helping protect your skin from mineral and soap scum buildup.
Improves Moisture Retention
With softened water, your skin can retain moisture more effectively. After bathing, your skin will feel smoother and more hydrated — which is essential for managing eczema symptoms.
Enhances Soap And Shampoo Performance
Soft water allows soaps, body washes and shampoos to lather better and rinse away completely. These conditions leave your skin cleaner and free from irritating residues. This factor reduces the chances of hard water eczema rash and helps your skin heal.
Do Water Softeners Cure Eczema?
While a water softener for eczema is not a medical treatment, it can play a role in reducing triggers that worsen symptoms. By reducing the mineral buildup and residue caused by hard water, a softener creates an environment where your skin can better absorb moisturizers and maintain its natural protective barrier.
For optimal eczema management, homeowners in San Diego can combine softened water with dermatologist-recommended moisturizers and gentle, fragrance-free cleansers. Together, these changes can provide relief from hard water eczema rashes and chronic dryness.
San Diego’s Trusted Water Softener Specialists
At Verday Smart Solutions, we specialize in installing Kinetico water softeners. Our soft water systems are designed to work efficiently with San Diego’s exceptionally hard water. Kinetico water-softening systems are:
- Non-electric for energy savings
- Highly efficient, significantly reducing salt use
- Built to last, with long warranties
- Providers of continuous soft water, thanks to their twin-tank design
We’ve been serving homeowners in San Diego County for over a decade. If you’ve been struggling with hard water and eczema, our team is ready to recommend the best system for your household.
Experience Softer Water With Verday Smart Solutions
At Verday Smart Solutions, we understand the frustration of dealing with persistent dry skin. Our water softeners are designed to address San Diego’s unique water challenges and bring comfort back to your home.
Ready to discover the benefits of soft water for yourself? Contact Verday Smart Solutions today to schedule an estimate and learn about our water softener installation services.
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