The Risks of Chlorinated Showers
The dictionary defines chlorine as a "gaseous greenish-yellow element used as a bleaching and disinfecting agent" As a disinfectant it kills bacteria. As a bleaching agent it makes contaminants colorless. In your shower water it is just another vaporized chemical that may increase your risk of illness and make you feel like you are showering in swimming pool water. "The skin the body's largest organ, can easily absorb contaminants found in water which pass through it into the bloodstream. The experts are just beginning to understand the potential health hazards from skin absorption of water contaminants."
Scientists warn you can inhale and/or absorb chlorine vapors and other pollutants while taking your shower. Asthma, allergy, sinus and emphysema sufferers should be aware that their conditions could become worse. Recent studies have confirmed that your risk for life threatening diseases can increase when showering with chlorinated water. These risks include bladder and rectal cancer and heart disease. Small children, the elderly and those who have weakened immune systems are more susceptible.
-Health & Longevity August 1994
"Researchers from Boston University's School of Public Health, point out that we absorb up to six times more volatile chemicals through our lungs and skin while bathing, than from drinking water."
Health World NewsletterWarm shower water opens your pores causing your skin to act like a sponge. Tests show that your body can absorb more chlorine by taking a ten minute shower than by drinking 8 glasses of the same water. Chlorine bonds with and destroys the proteins in your hair making it dry and unmanageable. It can make your scalp dry, dandruff worse and ruin tinted or chemically treated hair. Your skin and eyes may become dry and itchy. "There is evidence that shows that chlorine can destroy protein in our body and cause adverse affects on hair and skin.
-Dr. Riddle PHD Kemysts Laboratory