When you think about the link between health problems and water, you might initially think of the health risks of contaminated drinking water. While it is important to be vigilant of the quality of water you drink, you should also consider what is in the water you shower in. Chlorine, a chemical so common in water, may seem relatively harmless. However, chlorine poses a silent threat and has been linked to a variety of health and skin problems. 

Why is Chlorine Used in Water?

In the early 1900s, waterborne illnesses such as cholera and typhoid fever were among the leading causes of death. These diseases were often spread through contaminated drinking water, resulting in widespread outbreaks and high mortality rates.

Chlorine was introduced in public water supplies in 1908, drastically changing the public health landscape. As a powerful chemical disinfectant, chlorine was added to water to kill bacteria and other pathogens responsible for waterborne illnesses. This marked a turning point in public health, as the incidence of diseases like cholera and typhoid took a nosedive. The remarkable success of chlorination in reducing deaths from waterborne diseases led to its popularity.  Chlorination quickly became a standard practice in water treatment across many cities and municipalities.

Despite the immediate benefits of water chlorination at the time, the long-term effects were not fully understood. As chlorination became widespread, concerns about its potential side effects surfaced. Research in recent decades suggested that chlorine and its byproducts might be linked to various chronic health conditions. While many cities and municipalities continue to use chlorine, many believe chlorination may contribute to other chronic illnesses and conditions such as cancer, psoriasis, eczema, and other respiratory conditions.

The Discreet Risks of Chlorine 

1. Skin and Hair Damage

Chlorine can cause hair dryness and skin irritation by removing natural oils. Conditions such as eczema and psoriasis can worsen due to prolonged exposure to chlorine. Your hair may become dry, brittle, and prone to breakage. 

2. Respiratory Issues

Inhaling chlorine vapor released during hot showers can irritate your respiratory system. This can eventually cause problems for people with asthma or other respiratory conditions. Long-term exposure to chlorine vapor can also lead to chronic respiratory issues.

3. Eye Irritation

Chlorine can cause redness and irritation in the eyes. If you've ever experienced a stinging sensation in your eyes while swimming in a chlorinated pool, you've felt this effect firsthand. Showering in chlorinated water can lead to similar discomfort.

4. Chemical Byproducts

When chlorine reacts with organic matter in water, it forms chemical byproducts known as trihalomethanes (THMs). These compounds can be absorbed through the skin and inhaled during a hot shower. According to the National Cancer Institute, a few studies demonstrate a possible link between long-term exposure to THMs and certain cancers and other health issues.

How to Protect Yourself

1. Install a Shower Filter

A high-quality shower filter or whole-house filter can significantly reduce chlorine levels in your shower water. Filters that use activated carbon or KDF (Kinetic Degradation Fluxion) technology effectively remove chlorine and other contaminants.

2. Ventilate Your Bathroom

Good ventilation can help diffuse chlorine vapors. Use an exhaust fan or open a window to keep the air in your bathroom circulating during and after your shower.

3. Moisturize Your Skin

Regularly moisturizing your skin can help combat the drying effects of chlorine. Look for lotions and creams for sensitive skin to provide extra protection and hydration.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while chlorination has played a crucial role in controlling waterborne illnesses and improving public health, ongoing research and discussion about its long-term health impacts highlight the need for continued evaluation and potential adoption of safer water treatment technologies. By taking steps to reduce your exposure, such as installing a shower filter and using lukewarm water, you can protect your skin, hair, and overall health from the potential dangers of chlorine.