Hard Water & Lime scale

Water which contains calcium and magnesium compounds is called hard water. When rain water - which is naturally soft - seeps through the ground it picks up minerals from soil and rocks it passes through.

Water hardness is known to have a drying affect on hair and skin. British Water state in a fact sheet that, "Softened water is also known to have a calming, soothing effect on skin problems, including psoriasis.." The fact sheet continues to state,"..recent research by a leading UK dermatologist identified a strong link between hard water and childhood eczema".

According to Skin MD/Natural, clinical studies have shown that hard water not only irritates the skin but the blood vessels as well. Participants noticed increased irritation, redness and dryness. Hard water also causes skin to become thinner and irritates blood vessels--causing flushing and rosacea.

Hard water contains high levels of calcium and magnesium salts that have the potential to irritate the skin. The NHS state that contact dermatitis can be caused by especially hard chalky water.