The Hidden Chemicals in Australian Tap Water
Australia is known for its pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and high-quality drinking water. But did you know that the water flowing from your showerhead may not be as pure as it seems? While Australian tap water meets strict safety standards, it still contains a cocktail of chemicals designed to disinfect and treat it before it reaches your home.
Many of these additives serve an essential purpose, ensuring water is free from harmful bacteria and pathogens. However, their impact on skin and hair health is often overlooked. If you’ve ever experienced dryness, irritation, or dull hair, your daily shower could be a hidden culprit.
What’s in Australian Tap Water?
Chlorine & Chloramines: Added to kill bacteria and viruses, chlorine is a necessary disinfectant. However, it strips away natural oils from the skin and scalp, leading to dryness, irritation, and even exacerbating conditions like eczema. Chloramines, a combination of chlorine and ammonia, are even more persistent and harder to remove from water.
Fluoride: While fluoride is praised for its dental benefits, there’s growing concern about its effects on skin health. Some people report heightened skin sensitivity, redness, and even breakouts due to fluoride exposure in water.
Heavy Metals: (Lead, Copper, & Aluminium)These metals can leach into tap water from old pipes or treatment processes. When absorbed through the skin, they may contribute to oxidative stress, potentially accelerating premature aging and skin barrier damage.
Hard Water Minerals: (Calcium & Magnesium) While not necessarily harmful to ingest, these minerals create buildup on hair and skin, leading to dryness, dullness, and even increased sensitivity. Hard water can also make it difficult to rinse out shampoos and body washes, leaving residue that clogs pores and weighs hair down.
The Impact on Skin & Hair
Dry, Itchy Skin – Chlorine and hard water minerals strip away natural moisture, leading to tight, flaky skin.
Eczema & Sensitivity Flare-Ups – Harsh chemicals can trigger inflammation, worsening conditions like eczema and dermatitis.
Dull, Brittle Hair – Minerals deposit on the hair shaft, making it difficult for moisture to penetrate, leading to frizz and breakage.
Scalp Issues & Hair Thinning – Chlorine disrupts the natural oil balance, potentially leading to an irritated scalp and weakened hair follicles.
How to Protect Your Skin & Hair
A high-quality shower filter, like the Fettle Effect Shower Filter, helps remove chlorine, heavy metals, and other impurities, ensuring your skin and hair get the gentle, purified water they deserve. If you’re serious about maintaining healthy, hydrated skin and vibrant, strong hair, filtering your shower water is a simple but powerful solution.
Your self-care routine should start with the water you bathe in. Make the switch today and feel the difference in every drop.
