The Effects of Salt Water Softener on Hair and Skin
There are a multitude of university studies and arguments on both sides of the fence as to the pros or cons of salt water softening systems, yet many states have banned these brine systems because of damage to the environment. Salt water softening systems work by exchanging calcium and magnesium ions, responsible for hard water, for sodium ions during the filtration process. Salt-softened water may require less soap to clean, but its side effects may not leave hair and skin in the best of conditions. Using salt to soften water often causes more problems than it cures.
Dry Skin
Most people opt for a salt-water softening system because it makes soaps lather easier and clothes come cleaner. What they don't realize is that they are exchanging the beneficial minerals of calcium and magnesium--and the need to do a little bit more work when cleaning tubs and toilets--with sodium chloride, which drys out the skin. Washing in salt-softened water leaves you feeling slippery, slimy, and not quite clean. Because this residue is often left behind, it can dry out skin, or leave the scalp itchy and scaly.
Eczema
On the other side of the coin, Science Daily reports that a University of Nottingham group of researchers found that eczema is more prevalent in children who live with hard water than those living with salt-softened water systems. This research has sparked studies into the value of using saltwater softening systems on eczema--the results of which are not yet known.
Lifeless Hair
Because most shampoos are designed for hard water and have potent cleansing agents called surfactants, these agents may not entirely rinse from the hair, leaving hair limp, dry, hard to manage, and lifeless. This can cause a vicious cycle, as more hair products are needed to correct this problem to add volume and body back to the hair. Over time, these products, along with the drying effects of sodium, cause damage to hair, often making it limp and brittle. Most beauticians and beauty supply companies advise washing hair with a clarifying shampoo and salt-free water after a dip in the ocean--or using a salt-softened water system.
The Inside Scoop
All university studies agree on one aspect of salt-softened water systems: drinking sodium-softened water is not good for you. Salt causes cells to retain water, which builds up in the blood and around critical organs, which may increase blood pressure and weight gain. Wilkes University recommends that homes with soft-water systems should provide another source for drinking water. It also advises against creating baby formulas with the softened water. People with diabetes, cardiovascular or heart disease, or on low-sodium diets, are advised not to drink salt-softened water.
Tags: salt-softened water, hard water, softening systems, Effects Salt, Effects Salt Water, Hair Skin, Salt Water