~ by Peggy Stokes, Residential Water Specialist
Dry, itching skin is a common reason why people first contact Secondwind.
With hard water, soap sticks to the minerals dissolved in the water and the combination sticks to skin, hair and clothing; contributing to conditions such as dermatitis and eczema. When a water softener is present, consumers can use considerably less soap when bathing, shampooing or washing clothes. But by washing and rinsing with soft water, the skin’s natural oils are allowed to work – reducing the need for lotions.
Beyond the anecdotal evidence that we hear from individual customers, a variety of studies have been conducted over time, researching the link between dry skin and hard water.
One study in Nottingham England indicated that primary school children living in hard water areas are almost 50% more likely to have eczema than those living in a softer water area. Similar mapping studies carried out in Spain and in Japan have found higher incidence of eczema in areas of the country which are supplied with hard water rather than in naturally soft water areas.
Kinetico commissioned Talkhealth to conduct an independent product trial and survey. The survey was carried out between August and December 2011 and was promoted to Talkhealth members. 339 people completed the pre-qualification questionnaire and 23 participants were selected to have Kinetico water softeners installed in their homes for a three month period. The participants then completed a questionnaire at the end of each month, over a three month period. Here are some of the results:
* 91% recorded less itchiness;
* 83% maintained that the water softener reduced the severity of their eczema;
* of the 78% regularly applying emollients or steroid cream, 67% were using less;
* 96% noticed smoother skin and softer hair;
* 91% are using less soap and shampoo;
* 83% used less washing powder and detergent;
* 83% noticed softer feeling towels and clothes.[1]
Making healthier skin a part of your health and beauty regimen can be as simple as understanding and improving your water quality.
