These are the worst areas in England for your hair and skin
The term ‘hard water’ usually brings to mind scaling that makes our kettles and taps harder to keep clean. But did you know that the high mineral content in hard water can also impact your skin and hair?
Hard water contains minerals like calcium and magnesium, which are essential for maintaining our everyday health. It is safe to consume and, for many people, supplements necessary minerals alongside their diet.
However, our hair and skin may suffer due to washing and bathing in hard water. Some areas in the UK have harder water than others, and people who live there may experience more hair and skin issues compared to those living in areas with softer water.
Air pollution also contributes to hair and skin problems, amongst other health issues. Denser areas like cities have higher levels of air pollution, which means people living in these areas are more susceptible to related issues.
According to new data, the worst areas in England to live for overall skin and hair health is South London and Kent due to high levels of air pollution and hard water.
A study conducted by Mira Showers found that South London has 1000% more magnesium in its water supply than the average across England. The area scored 95 out of 100 in the weighted rank based on combined metrics measuring the level of water and air pollutants.
South London was also found to have the highest average of calcium and magnesium in their water sources, as well as the highest levels of nitrogen oxide and sulphur dioxide.
Elsewhere, the West Thames area was found to have lower levels of magnesium in the water, but higher levels of harmful compounds in the air. The data revealed levels of nitrogen oxide stood at 0.0830 and sulphur dioxide at 0.0086.
North London and Hertfordshire ranked at third worst areas for hair and skin health. These areas have higher magnesium levels in the water compared to West Thames, but the levels of air pollutants were notably lower.
Conversely, the best areas for healthy skin and hair were Devon and Cornwall, which have 70% less calcium in the water supply than the average across England.
Devon and Cornwall also have 854% less air pollutants than South London, which Mira Showers said makes it the best place to live in England for skin health and "the least age-accelerating area in England".
Cumbria and Lancashire were the second best areas to live in order to maintain healthy skin and hair. These were followed by Shropshire, Herefordshire, Worcestershire, and Gloucestershire.
How does hard water affect hair and skin?
Dermatologist Dr Yulia Krasnaya, from Evolution Aesthetics Clinic, explains to Yahoo UK that hard water can negative affect both hair and skin because of the high levels of minerals such as calcium and magnesium.
"For hair, this can mean dryness, dullness, and more tangles because the minerals form a film that blocks moisture," she says.
"For skin, hard water can strip away natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and worsening of conditions like eczema and acne. People might notice their skin feeling tight, itchy, and less smooth after washing with hard water."
Meanwhile, air pollution has been known to cause significant problems for overall health, including that of our skin and hair.
"Pollutants like particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and heavy metals settle on the skin and hair, causing oxidative stress and inflammation.
"For skin, this leads to premature ageing, dark spots, acne, and weakened skin barriers. Pollutants can clog pores, causing breakouts.
"For hair, pollution can cause dryness, brittleness, and scalp issues like dandruff. Pollutants can also weaken hair strands, leading to breakage and a dull look."
How can we counter the effects?
Dr Krasnaya says there are a few ways we can reduce the negative impact of hard water and air pollution, including using certain products to counter it.
"To combat the effects of hard water, using a water softener can reduce mineral content. Clarifying shampoos can remove mineral buildup from hair, while leave-in conditioners and hair masks can restore moisture," she recommends.
"For skin, gentle cleansers and hydrating moisturisers help replenish moisture and strengthen the skin barrier. Regular exfoliation can also remove mineral residues from the skin.
"To fight air pollution effects, use skincare products rich in antioxidants to neutralise free radicals and reduce oxidative stress. Ingredients like vitamin C, vitamin E, and niacinamide are very effective. Cleansing the skin thoroughly at the end of the day removes pollutants.
"For hair, use products with antioxidants and anti-pollution properties to protect and repair damage. Wearing hats or using protective hairstyles can minimise direct exposure to pollutants."
Making sure we lead a balanced lifestyle can also help counter the effects. Dr Krasnaya adds: "Having a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, regular exercise, and staying hydrated, supports skin and hair from within.
"Reducing exposure to pollutants by staying indoors during high pollution days and using air purifiers can further protect skin and hair health."
Read more about health and wellness:
Do you risk catching a cold when you go out with wet hair? Kate Moss says it's a 'rule' (Yahoo Life UK, 5-min read)
Harry Styles shocks fans with a buzz cut: Does shaving your head help hair growth? (Yahoo Life UK, 5-min read)
This is the right age to start using anti-ageing skincare (Yahoo Life UK, 4-min read)
