**Austin Tap: Copper Pipes Crashing Skin Biome?**
By Franklin Everett ShawThe persistent hum of Austin’s cicadas isn’t the only thing buzzing in the back of my mind. It’s the nagging question of what’s lurking in our tap water, specifically, the potential impact of copper pipes on our skin. Could the very water we use to cleanse be subtly disrupting our skin’s delicate balance? I think it’s time we took a closer look.
Austin, with its older housing stock, often relies on copper plumbing. While copper is essential for human health in small amounts, excessive exposure can wreak havoc, especially on the skin’s microbiome. This isn’t just about abstract worries; it’s about real, tangible effects that many Austinites might be experiencing without realizing the root cause.
Let’s dive into how copper from Austin’s pipes could be affecting your skin, and more importantly, what you can do about it.
First, let’s understand the potential link. Copper, while a necessary nutrient, can become problematic when present in high concentrations in drinking water. This is especially true in homes with older copper pipes where corrosion can leach copper into the water supply. This leached copper can disrupt the delicate balance of the skin’s microbiome, potentially leading to inflammation, irritation, and even contributing to conditions like acne or eczema.
So, how do you know if you have a copper problem? The first step is testing your tap water.
Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Purchase a Copper Water Testing Kit: You can find these at most hardware stores, like Home Depot on Ben White Boulevard, or online retailers. Look for kits certified by the EPA.
- Choose the Right Faucet: Select a faucet that is frequently used, preferably in your kitchen or bathroom.
- First Draw Sample: This is crucial. Let the water sit unused in the pipes for at least six hours (overnight is ideal). Then, collect the first draw of water. This sample will give you the highest concentration of copper, reflecting what’s been leaching from your pipes.
- Follow Kit Instructions: Each kit will have specific instructions, but generally, you’ll fill the provided container with the first draw water sample.
- Send to Lab: Most kits include a prepaid mailer to send the sample to a certified laboratory for analysis.
- Interpret Results: The lab will provide you with a report indicating the copper concentration in parts per million (ppm). The EPA’s action level for copper in drinking water is 1.3 ppm. If your results exceed this level, further action is needed.
Now, what if your test results come back high? Don’t panic. There are several remediation strategies you can implement.
- Whole-House Filtration: This is arguably the most effective long-term solution. A whole-house filter, installed at your main water line, removes copper and other contaminants before they even enter your home’s plumbing. Consider systems from companies like Aqua-Tex Scientific in Austin, known for their expertise in local water conditions.
- Point-of-Use Filters: For a more targeted approach, consider installing filters on specific faucets, like your kitchen sink or showerhead. These are less expensive than whole-house systems but only treat water at the point of use.
- Dietary Adjustments: Certain foods can help chelate (bind to) copper in the body, aiding in its removal. Incorporate foods rich in zinc, such as oysters, pumpkin seeds, and cashews, into your diet.
- Targeted Probiotic Skincare: Look for skincare products containing probiotics specifically formulated to support a healthy skin microbiome. Ingredients like Lactobacillus ferment can help restore balance and reduce inflammation.
- DIY Copper-Chelating Skincare: You can create your own simple skincare remedies. For example, a mask made with bentonite clay and apple cider vinegar can help draw out impurities and chelate copper from the skin. Mix 1 tablespoon of bentonite clay with 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar and enough water to form a paste. Apply to your face, let it dry for 15 minutes, and rinse thoroughly.
One common mistake developers make is assuming that municipal water is always safe and consistent. Water quality can vary significantly depending on the age of the infrastructure and the specific location within Austin. Don’t rely solely on city reports; test your own water to get an accurate picture of your exposure.
Another pitfall is neglecting the importance of the first draw sample. This sample is the most representative of the copper that has leached from your pipes overnight. A flushed sample will likely underestimate the copper levels.
Let’s talk about specific Austin resources. For water filtration solutions, reach out to Aqua-Tex Scientific. They understand Austin’s unique water challenges and can recommend the best filtration system for your needs. For skincare, check out local Austin brands like The Herb Bar, which often uses natural ingredients that can help soothe and protect the skin.
Here’s a practical scenario: Imagine you live in a charming older home in the Zilker neighborhood. You’ve noticed your skin has been unusually dry and irritated lately. You suspect it might be the water. You purchase a copper water testing kit from Home Depot on Ben White, follow the instructions carefully, and send the sample to the lab. The results come back showing a copper level of 1.8 ppm, exceeding the EPA’s action level. You decide to install a whole-house filtration system from Aqua-Tex Scientific. You also start incorporating zinc-rich foods into your diet and using a probiotic skincare serum. Within a few weeks, you notice a significant improvement in your skin’s condition.
This isn’t just a hypothetical scenario; it’s a real possibility for many Austinites. By taking proactive steps to test your water and implement appropriate remediation strategies, you can protect your skin and overall health.
Remember, knowledge is power. Don’t let the potential for copper contamination in your tap water keep you guessing. Take control, test your water, and take action. Your skin will thank you for it.