Another option is to purchase a home testing kit from a hardware store or online retailer. “These kits typically test for common contaminants such as lead, chlorine, bacteria, pH levels, and hardness,” says Ma.
For more comprehensive results, consider sending a water sample to a certified laboratory, which can test for a wide range of contaminants and provide detailed reports. You can also use My Tap Score for home testing, along with the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) resources and databases to find local water quality information and any potential safety standard violations. Additionally, the EWG offers a free tap water database where you can search your zip code to find the top contaminants in your area and access health guidelines.
Tap Water for Your Skin
“For the majority of people, using tap water will not harm your skin,” says Dr. McGuinness, so you can breathe a sigh of relief. “While water pH, hardness, and temperature can affect skin, these factors may impact certain people more than others,” she adds. However, Dr. Lin notes that if tap water has a high mineral content, it can exacerbate dryness and impair the skin barrier. “This may significantly affect those with more sensitive skin or eczema,” she warns. Additionally, minerals that bind to surfactants in cleansers and soaps can be problematic for acne-prone skin, as they may clog pores. “The oxidation reactions from the mineral ions can cause free radical formation, breakdown of collagen and elastic fibers, and premature aging.”
Is It Time to Switch to Bottled Water?
In short, no, says Dr. McGuinness. While using bottled water may allow you to control the pH and hardness of the water compared to tap water, “there is no strong evidence at this time to suggest it provides any real benefit.” While there’s no harm in using bottled water, factors such as ease of use, cost, and the environmental impact of disposable plastics should be considered. “For the general population, using tap water in conjunction with a consistent skin-care regimen—including a gentle face wash, moisturizer, sunscreen during the daytime, and other products specific to your skin concerns—will keep your skin healthy,” advises Dr. McGuinness.
However, depending on your geographic location and skin type, there might be some benefits to using bottled water. Tap water quality can vary significantly depending on where you live. “If you notice worsening of your skin condition after using tap water, it may be beneficial to try bottled water or a water filtration system,” says Dr. Lin.
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