While we carefully choose filtered water for drinking and cooking, many of us pay little attention to what's in the water cascading over our bodies each day. Yet research suggests that shower water—and its various chemical additives and contaminants—may have more impact on our health than previously thought. Filtered shower heads offer a solution, removing chlorine and other substances to deliver cleaner, gentler water to your skin and hair.
In this guide, we'll explore what filtered shower heads remove, how they work, and the potential benefits for your skin, hair, and overall wellbeing. We'll also help you understand whether a filtered shower head is the right choice for your household.
What's in Australian Tap Water?
Australian water utilities treat drinking water to rigorous safety standards, making it among the cleanest in the world. However, the chemicals used to achieve this safety can have effects beyond killing pathogens.
Chlorine and Chloramine
The most significant chemical in treated water is chlorine, used as a disinfectant throughout Australia's water supply. While essential for killing harmful bacteria and making water safe to drink, chlorine is a known skin irritant. Some water authorities use chloramine (a combination of chlorine and ammonia) which is more stable but presents similar concerns.
Chlorine levels in Australian tap water typically range from 0.5 to 2 parts per million—safe for consumption but potentially problematic for sensitive skin during prolonged shower exposure.
Other Potential Contaminants
Depending on your location, water may also contain:
- Heavy metals: Trace amounts of lead, copper, and other metals can leach from pipes, particularly in older homes.
- Sediment: Particles from the water supply or aging infrastructure.
- Dissolved minerals: Hard water contains calcium and magnesium that can affect skin and hair.
- VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds): Various industrial and agricultural chemicals that may be present at trace levels.
Hot showers open pores and increase blood flow to the skin, potentially enhancing absorption of waterborne chemicals. The steam you breathe also contains these substances, adding another exposure pathway beyond skin contact.
How Filtered Shower Heads Work
Filtered shower heads incorporate one or more filtration media within the shower head body. As water passes through, the filter removes or neutralises targeted contaminants before the water reaches your body.
Common Filtration Technologies
KDF (Kinetic Degradation Fluxion): These copper-zinc granules work through a redox (reduction-oxidation) reaction that converts chlorine into harmless chloride. KDF is effective at the warm temperatures typical of showers, unlike activated carbon which loses effectiveness in hot water.
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid): Vitamin C neutralises chlorine through a chemical reaction, converting it to chloride and dehydroascorbic acid. This technology is particularly effective against chloramine, which other filters struggle to remove.
Calcium Sulfite: Often used in combination with other media, calcium sulfite effectively removes chlorine even in hot water conditions.
Activated Carbon: While less effective in hot water, carbon filters can remove VOCs and improve water taste and smell when used in combination with heat-resistant media.
Filter Cartridge Life
Most filtered shower heads use replaceable cartridges that last between 3-6 months depending on usage and water quality. Regular replacement is essential for maintained effectiveness. Some units include filter life indicators to remind you when it's time for a change.
For best results, follow manufacturer guidelines for filter replacement. An exhausted filter may provide false security while no longer offering effective protection.
Potential Benefits for Skin
Reduced Dryness and Irritation
Chlorine strips natural oils from the skin, disrupting the protective barrier that maintains moisture. Many users of filtered shower heads report noticeably softer, less dry skin after switching. Those with conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or general sensitive skin sensitivity often find particular relief.
Less Irritation for Sensitive Skin
If your skin reacts to chlorinated pool water, it may also respond to shower water—just less dramatically due to lower concentrations. Filtered water removes this irritant, potentially reducing redness, itching, and reactive skin symptoms.
Supporting Skin Microbiome
Emerging research highlights the importance of the skin microbiome—the beneficial bacteria living on our skin. Chlorine, being a disinfectant, doesn't discriminate between harmful and helpful bacteria. Some dermatologists suggest that reducing chlorine exposure may support healthier skin microbiome balance.
Potential Benefits for Hair
Preserving Natural Oils
Just as chlorine strips oils from skin, it removes the natural sebum that keeps hair healthy and manageable. Filtered water may help hair retain its natural conditioning, reducing the need for intensive conditioning treatments.
Colour-Treated Hair Protection
Chlorine accelerates colour fade in dyed hair and can cause brassiness in blonde or highlighted styles. Those who invest in professional colour treatments often notice significantly longer-lasting results when showering in filtered water.
Reduced Brittleness
Harsh water can leave hair brittle, prone to breakage, and difficult to manage. Users frequently report improved hair texture, increased shine, and easier styling after switching to filtered shower heads.
While individual results vary, consistent themes in user feedback include softer skin, shinier hair, reduced scalp dryness, and less need for moisturisers and conditioners.
Respiratory Considerations
When you shower, particularly with hot water, you create steam that carries chlorine into the air you breathe. In enclosed shower spaces, chlorine vapour concentrations can exceed those in the water itself. For people with asthma, allergies, or respiratory sensitivities, this aerosolised chlorine may aggravate symptoms.
Filtered shower heads reduce the chlorine available to vaporise, potentially improving air quality within the shower enclosure. While research specifically on shower filtration and respiratory health is limited, the underlying logic of reducing irritant exposure is sound.
Who Benefits Most from Filtered Shower Heads?
While anyone can potentially benefit, certain groups may notice more significant improvements:
- Sensitive skin sufferers: Those prone to dryness, irritation, or reactive skin conditions
- Eczema and psoriasis patients: Reducing irritants may help manage symptoms
- Colour-treated hair: Protecting investment in hair colour
- Allergy and asthma sufferers: Reducing airborne irritants
- Families with young children: Children's skin is more sensitive than adults'
- Areas with high chlorine levels: Some water supplies use higher concentrations
Choosing a Filtered Shower Head
Spray Performance
Early filtered shower heads sacrificed spray quality for filtration, but modern units offer performance comparable to standard shower heads. Look for models with multiple spray settings, adequate flow rates, and positive reviews regarding water pressure.
Filter Type and Availability
Consider what contaminants concern you most and choose filtration technology accordingly. Also verify that replacement cartridges are readily available in Australia and reasonably priced for ongoing use.
Installation
Most filtered shower heads install identically to standard units—see our installation guide. Some inline filter systems are also available that work with your existing shower head.
Realistic Expectations
While many users experience noticeable benefits from filtered shower heads, it's important to maintain realistic expectations. Filtration may not solve all skin or hair problems, particularly those with non-water causes. Results vary based on your specific water quality, skin type, and individual sensitivity.
That said, for a relatively modest investment, filtered shower heads offer a simple way to improve your daily shower water quality. If chlorine sensitivity is a concern or you're curious about the potential benefits, trying a filtered option is a low-risk experiment that many find worthwhile.
Explore our filtered shower head options to find a model that suits your needs and budget.