**Austin Tap: Chlorine Crashing Youth Biome?**

By Franklin Everett Shaw

January 6, 2026

The showerhead sputters, a weak stream of lukewarm water barely enough to rinse the shampoo from your hair. You step out, skin tight and itchy, wondering if it’s just a bad day or something more. For many Austinites, this is a familiar scenario, and the culprit might be lurking in your tap water: chlorine. While essential for disinfecting our water supply, chlorine can wreak havoc on our gut microbiome and skin health. But don’t despair, fellow Austinites! There are practical, actionable steps you can take to mitigate these negative effects and reclaim your well-being.

First, let’s talk about testing your water. Austin Water provides annual water quality reports, but these offer a broad overview. For a more granular understanding of your specific tap water, consider purchasing a home testing kit. Look for kits that specifically test for chlorine and chloramine (another disinfectant used in Austin). You can find these at local hardware stores like Home Depot or Lowe’s, or online retailers like Amazon. Alternatively, for a more comprehensive analysis, you can send a sample to a certified laboratory. A quick Google search for “water testing labs Austin TX” will yield several options. Knowing your chlorine levels is the first step in taking control.

Next, filtration is key. A whole-house water filter is the gold standard, removing chlorine from every tap in your home. However, these can be expensive to install. A more budget-friendly option is a point-of-use filter, such as a faucet filter or a water filter pitcher like Brita or PUR. These are readily available at Target, Walmart, and HEB stores across Austin. For your shower, consider a showerhead filter. These are easy to install and can significantly reduce chlorine exposure during your daily shower. Look for filters that use activated carbon, as this is effective at removing chlorine and chloramine.

Now, let’s dive into gut health. Chlorine can disrupt the delicate balance of bacteria in your gut, potentially leading to digestive issues and other health problems. To counteract this, focus on incorporating prebiotic and probiotic-rich foods into your diet. Austin boasts a vibrant food scene, making this easier than you think.

• Prebiotics: These are foods that feed the beneficial bacteria in your gut. Good sources include:
  • Onions and garlic: Easily found at any grocery store. Add them liberally to your cooking!
  • Asparagus: In season during the spring, find fresh, local asparagus at the Barton Creek Farmers Market.
  • Bananas: A convenient and affordable snack available everywhere.
  • Oats: Start your day with a bowl of oatmeal, adding berries for extra antioxidants.
• Probiotics: These are live microorganisms that add to the population of good bacteria in your gut. Consider these options:
  • Yogurt: Look for plain, unsweetened yogurt with live and active cultures. Many brands are available at Central Market and Whole Foods.
  • Kefir: A fermented milk drink similar to yogurt, but with a wider range of probiotics. Check out local health food stores like Wheatsville Co-op.
  • Sauerkraut and kimchi: Fermented vegetables that are packed with probiotics. Find locally made options at farmers’ markets or specialty stores like Antonelli’s Cheese Shop (they often carry fermented products).
  • Kombucha: A fermented tea drink that’s become increasingly popular. Many local breweries and cafes in Austin offer kombucha on tap.

Beyond food, consider a probiotic supplement. Consult with a healthcare professional to determine the right strain and dosage for your individual needs. Many Austin pharmacies, like Peoples Rx, carry a wide selection of probiotic supplements.

Let’s move on to skin health. Chlorine can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and even eczema flare-ups. Here’s how to combat this:

• Chlorine-neutralizing bath and shower routines:

  • Vitamin C: Adding vitamin C (ascorbic acid) to your bathwater can neutralize chlorine. You can purchase vitamin C powder online or at health food stores. A quarter teaspoon is usually sufficient for a standard-sized bathtub.
  • Shower filters: As mentioned earlier, a shower filter is a great way to reduce chlorine exposure.
  • Gentle cleansers: Avoid harsh soaps that can further strip your skin of its natural oils. Opt for gentle, fragrance-free cleansers. Look for brands like Cetaphil or CeraVe, available at most drugstores.
  • Moisturize immediately: Apply a moisturizer immediately after showering to lock in moisture. Look for moisturizers containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or shea butter.

• Post-swim care: If you’re a regular swimmer at Barton Springs Pool or Deep Eddy Pool, rinse off immediately after swimming and apply a generous amount of moisturizer.

Finally, consider seeking guidance from local health practitioners.

• Gut health specialists: A gastroenterologist or functional medicine doctor can help you assess your gut microbiome and develop a personalized plan to address any imbalances. Look for practitioners who specialize in SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth) or leaky gut syndrome, as these conditions can be exacerbated by chlorine exposure. Some well-regarded practitioners in Austin include those at the Austin Center for Functional Medicine and the providers at True Health Center.
• Dermatologists: A dermatologist can help you manage skin conditions that may be aggravated by chlorine exposure, such as eczema or psoriasis. They can also recommend appropriate skincare products and treatments. Check out Austin Dermatology or Westlake Dermatology for reputable options.

Common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

• Assuming all water filters are created equal: Not all water filters remove chlorine effectively. Make sure to choose a filter that is specifically designed to remove chlorine and chloramine. Read the product specifications carefully before purchasing.
• Not replacing filter cartridges regularly: Filter cartridges have a limited lifespan. Failing to replace them regularly will render them ineffective. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cartridge replacement.
• Overdoing it with probiotics: While probiotics are generally beneficial, taking too many can sometimes lead to digestive upset. Start with a low dose and gradually increase as tolerated.
• Ignoring other potential irritants: Chlorine may not be the only culprit behind your skin or gut issues. Consider other potential irritants in your environment, such as harsh detergents, fragrances, or food sensitivities.

Living in Austin offers a fantastic quality of life, but being mindful of the potential impact of chlorine in our tap water is crucial for maintaining optimal health. By implementing these practical strategies, you can mitigate the negative effects of chlorine and enjoy a healthier gut and happier skin. Remember, consistency is key. Make these practices a part of your daily routine, and you’ll be well on your way to a healthier, more vibrant you.