Boise Showers: Is City Chlorine Killing Collagen?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

August 6, 2025

That persistent itch after a shower in Boise? It might not just be dry skin. It could be the chlorine in your water. While Boise’s water is generally safe and meets EPA standards, the chlorine added for disinfection can wreak havoc on your skin, especially affecting collagen production. Let’s dive into how to test your water, understand the results, and find the best filtration solutions for your Boise home.

Chlorine, while effective at killing bacteria, is a known oxidizer. This means it steals electrons from other molecules, including those in your skin. Collagen, the protein responsible for skin elasticity and firmness, is particularly vulnerable. Chlorine exposure can lead to:

• Reduced collagen production.
• Increased collagen breakdown.
• Dryness, irritation, and premature aging.

Boise’s water source is primarily groundwater, supplemented by surface water from the Boise River. The city adds chlorine to ensure its safety. The exact levels can fluctuate depending on the season and location within the city. This variability makes it crucial to understand your specific water quality.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to testing your shower water for chlorine:

1. Gather Your Supplies: You’ll need a chlorine test kit. These are readily available at most hardware stores in Boise (like Lowe’s or Home Depot on Milwaukee Street) or online. Look for kits that specifically test for free chlorine, which is the active form that causes the most problems. Aquarium test kits can also work in a pinch.
2. Prepare Your Sample: Let your shower run for a few minutes to flush out any stagnant water in the pipes. This ensures you’re testing the actual water coming from the city supply.
3. Collect the Sample: Using a clean glass or container (avoid plastic, as it can leach chemicals), collect a sample of the shower water.
4. Perform the Test: Follow the instructions on your chlorine test kit. Most kits involve adding a reagent to the water sample and comparing the resulting color to a chart.
5. Record the Results: Note the chlorine level in parts per million (ppm).

Understanding the Results:

• The EPA allows for chlorine levels up to 4 ppm in drinking water.
• However, even levels below 4 ppm can be problematic for sensitive skin.
• Ideally, you want to reduce the chlorine level in your shower water to 0 ppm for optimal skin health.

Now, let’s talk filtration. There are several options available to Boise residents, each with its pros and cons:

• Showerhead Filters: These are the most common and affordable option. They attach directly to your showerhead and use various filtration media to remove chlorine. Look for filters containing KDF-55 media, which is particularly effective at removing chlorine and heavy metals. A good example is the AquaBliss High Output Revitalizing Shower Filter. You can find these at stores like Bed Bath & Beyond in Boise.
• Whole-House Filters: These filters treat all the water entering your home. While more expensive, they provide comprehensive protection from chlorine and other contaminants. Consider a whole-house filter with a carbon block filter for chlorine removal. Installation can be a DIY project for handy homeowners, or you can hire a local Boise plumber.
• Vitamin C Filters: These filters use ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) to neutralize chlorine. They are effective and environmentally friendly, but the cartridges need to be replaced more frequently.

Common Mistakes and Pitfalls:

• Not replacing filters regularly: Showerhead filters have a limited lifespan. Failing to replace them on time renders them ineffective and can even lead to bacterial growth. Set a reminder on your phone or calendar to replace your filter every 6-12 months, depending on the manufacturer’s recommendations and your water usage.
• Choosing the wrong filter: Not all filters are created equal. Make sure the filter you choose is specifically designed to remove chlorine. Read the product description carefully and look for certifications from organizations like NSF International.
• Ignoring water pressure: Some showerhead filters can reduce water pressure. If you experience a significant drop in pressure after installing a filter, consider a model designed for high flow rates.
• Assuming all water is the same: Chlorine levels can vary throughout Boise. Testing your water regularly is essential to ensure your filtration system is working effectively.

To provide even more specific advice, I spoke with Dr. Emily Carter, a dermatologist at Boise Dermatology & Medspa. Dr. Carter emphasized the importance of addressing chlorine exposure, especially for individuals with eczema or sensitive skin. “In Boise, where we have hard water and added chlorine, I often recommend shower filters to my patients,” she said. “It can make a noticeable difference in skin hydration and reduce irritation.” Dr. Carter also suggested using a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer immediately after showering to help replenish the skin’s natural oils. She recommends looking for products containing ceramides and hyaluronic acid.

Actionable Insights for Boise Residents:

1. Test your shower water: Don’t assume your water is the same as your neighbor’s. Invest in a chlorine test kit and test your water regularly.
2. Choose the right filter: Consider a showerhead filter with KDF-55 media or a whole-house filter with a carbon block filter.
3. Replace your filter regularly: Set a reminder to replace your filter every 6-12 months.
4. Moisturize immediately after showering: Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to replenish your skin’s natural oils.
5. Consult a dermatologist: If you have persistent skin problems, consult a dermatologist like Dr. Carter for personalized advice.

By taking these steps, Boise residents can mitigate the negative effects of chlorine on their skin and maintain a healthy, radiant complexion. Don’t let your shower become a source of skin irritation. Take control of your water quality and enjoy the benefits of chlorine-free showers.