When it comes to hard and soft water, odds are that your water is hard-ish, meaning it has a higher mineral content than softer water. In fact, only about 15% of the US water supply falls in the softer range. What does this mean when it comes to taking care of your beautiful skin? Great question!

Need the basics of hard water vs. soft water when it comes to your skincare routine? Click here →

Since soft water has a lower mineral content than harder water, and we know that minerals are important for overall optimal health, is soft water good for your skin? Yes! Those hard water minerals, especially calcium and magnesium, can actually strip away the moisture in your skin, which is no bueno no matter the season you’re in. And since those and other minerals are removed from soft water, you’ll also see less soap scum and the resulting blocked pores and even acne breakouts when you use soft water for caring for your skin.

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If you have sensitive skin, softer water can also reduce any skin irritation, itching, and redness—all of which can be a result of mineral-laden hard water. You’ll also love the look of your skin with soft water, as it can eliminate any mineral buildup, which can help your skin look brighter, vibrant, and rejuvenated. You’ll love the glow that can radiate from your skin too!

One complaint we’ve heard that we want to address is the belief that soft water leaves residue on your skin because it feels “slippery” or like there’s a film or even cleanser remaining, even after rinsing thoroughly. While this is technically true, that slippery feeling is due to the fact that there are no minerals left to leave that “squeaky clean” feeling (i.e. all the moisture has been removed) you get from hard water. In fact, that slippery feeling means that your skin is hydrated AND clean. Which is what you’re aiming for, right?!

Top 7 Soft Water Skincare Tips

Now that we’re finished with our deep dive into soft water, here are some tips to help you take advantage of the benefits of soft water so your skin can thrive 24/7/365. While the tips we’re sharing can definitely help keep your skin healthy if you have softer water, they can also serve your skin no matter what type of water you have!

* Check or Install a water softener system. If your water tends to run harder than you’d like, installing a water softener system is the most popular way to remedy this situation. If the cost is too prohibitive, install filters on your shower heads and faucets to help soften your hard water. One thing to keep in mind when using a water softener system is that if your skin is acne-prone, sometimes the iodine used to soften your water can potentially cause flare ups or breakouts. But usually, soft water can be a BFF for even sensitive or acne-prone skin.

If you ever have any concerns about your water type and your skin, please consult with your dermatologist. We want your skin to be healthy no matter which type of water you have!

* Use less product. Softer water requires less product to get the cleansing job done, plain and simple. You also need less product with soft water to get that lather you love—you know…that lather that “tells” you your product is doing what you want it to do. And using less product and less water can also save you some money too!
* Use gentle cleansers. While soft water doesn’t strip away the natural oils from your skin like hard water does, it’s still important to gently cleanse your skin to keep those natural oils on your skin where they can do the most good for your skin. Bonus tip: Hot water can strip those natural oils away from your skin too, so be sure to use lukewarm water when cleansing to help ensure those natural oils stay on your skin.

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* Moisturize. Moisturizing regularly is an important part of your skincare routine no matter which type of water you have, even if it’s the softest water possible. So even though your skin might already feel moist after cleansing, always include a moisturizer in your skincare routine to ensure your skin stays as hydrated and as moist as possible all day long.

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* Drink your H2O. Yes, soft water helps to keep your skin hydrated, but drinking water is a surefire way to make sure your skin stays healthy and glowing all year long. Staying hydrated is good for the rest of your body too, so aim to drink ½ your bodyweight in ounces daily
* Know your BP numbers. Since water is often softened through the use of sodium-containing additives, if you struggle with high blood pressure, this is something to keep in mind. Please consult your healthcare provider with any concerns you may have about the level of softness in your water and your blood pressure numbers. Learn more here.
* Use sunscreen every day. This tip should be a part of every skincare routine, no matter which type of water you have, because no water “type” can protect your skin from those damaging UV rays. Bonus tip: Make sure your moisturizer also contains at least an SPF of 30, and you’ve eliminated 1 step from your skincare routine!

Soft water—whether it flows naturally from your faucets or gets some softening help through a system or added filters—can be your skin’s best friend. When you include the tips we’ve shared in your skincare routine, you’ll make the most of your soft water, offering you and your skin the mineral-free, moisturizing, and overall healthy glow you’re striving for.