It is the combination of concentrated calcium, minerals, and other particles that make water hard. The U.S. Geological Survey indicates that the vast majority of homes in the U.S. have hard water. This is evident by the metallic taste to the water, scaly build-up found in sinks and showers, and large water spots on dishes. That same water has adverse effects on the skin.
Drying
Hard water dries out the skin. This is most noticeable on the hands and face. People expect to require more lotions and moisturizers in the winter months, but those who need lotion all year around probably have hard water. Wrinkles will appear sooner and deeper than anticipated. Hands will look old at an early age, and skin will be dry even right after a shower.
Itchy Scalp
Since hard water is drying, people without dandruff will experience itchy scalps. It will also take more shampoo and conditioning products to get hair clean and alleviate the itching. If a dandruff shampoo does not work, that itching is due to hard water.
Rather than be irritated and embarrassed by the need to scratch your head, have a phoenix water softener system installed. The soft water will eliminate drying and itching. It will also save the household a substantial amount of money on lotions, body wash, shampoo, and conditioners.
Rashes
A more serious consequence of hard water is the development of rashes on sensitive skin. Children, elderly, and people with sensitive skin will be prone to rashes, acne, and excessive dryness of the skin. Those with eczema, allergies, or psoriasis will experience more flare-ups of their conditions as the hard water touches the skin.
Other Irritants
The skin is also affected by hard water via scratchy clothing, bedding, and towels. It is also often dehydrated because people will not drink enough water. It is expensive to purchase enough bottled water to sustain a household. Most people do not drink the recommended amount of water under the best of circumstances. People with hard water tend to drink even less because the convenience of getting water from the tap is not an option.
Return on Investment
Once homeowners have added up the cost of all the extra personal hygiene products purchased due to the effects of hard water, and all the bottled water purchased, the cost of having a system installed is typically less expensive. That means a full return is realized within the first year of operating a water softener system.