Savannah Showers: Is Well Water Fueling Eczema?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

January 8, 2026

Is your child’s eczema acting up, even after trying every cream and ointment under the sun? If you live in Savannah, Georgia, the answer might be lurking in your well water. Let’s dive into why Savannah’s well water could be the culprit behind those persistent eczema flare-ups and, more importantly, what you can do about it.

Savannah, nestled in Chatham County, relies heavily on groundwater. Many residents, especially those outside the historic downtown area, depend on private wells for their water supply. While well water can be a cost-effective alternative to city water, it often comes with its own set of challenges, particularly concerning water quality.

One of the biggest issues is hard water. Hard water contains high concentrations of minerals like calcium and magnesium. These minerals, while not inherently harmful to ingest, can wreak havoc on sensitive skin. Hard water makes it difficult for soap to lather properly, leaving a residue on the skin that can irritate and dry it out. This is a major trigger for eczema.

Chatham County’s geology contributes to the hardness of its well water. The underlying limestone formations naturally leach calcium and magnesium into the groundwater. This means that many Savannah residents are unknowingly bathing and washing their clothes in water that exacerbates their eczema.

Beyond hardness, other contaminants commonly found in Savannah’s well water can also contribute to skin problems. Iron is a frequent offender. It can stain fixtures and laundry, but more importantly, it can cause skin irritation and dryness. The iron in well water can also react with soaps and detergents, forming insoluble compounds that deposit on the skin, further aggravating eczema.

Sulfur is another common contaminant. It’s often detected by its distinctive rotten egg smell. While not always directly irritating, sulfur can alter the pH of the water, making it more acidic. This acidic water can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and increased sensitivity.

So, what can you do if you suspect your well water is contributing to your eczema? The first step is testing your water. Don’t rely on assumptions or anecdotal evidence. Invest in a comprehensive water test from a certified laboratory.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to testing your well water in Savannah:

1. Find a certified lab: Search online for “certified water testing labs Savannah GA” or contact the Chatham County Health Department for recommendations.
2. Choose a test package: Select a package that tests for hardness, iron, sulfur, pH, bacteria, and other common contaminants.
3. Collect your sample: Follow the lab’s instructions carefully. This usually involves running the water for a specific amount of time and collecting the sample in a sterile container.
4. Submit your sample: Deliver the sample to the lab as soon as possible.
5. Review the results: Once you receive the results, carefully review them with the lab or a water treatment professional.

Once you have your water test results, you can determine the best course of action. If your water is hard, a water softener is a good investment. Water softeners use ion exchange to remove calcium and magnesium from the water. This will not only improve your skin but also extend the life of your plumbing and appliances.

For iron and sulfur, you’ll likely need a specialized filtration system. Iron filters use oxidation to remove iron from the water. Sulfur filters often use activated carbon to absorb the sulfur compounds. In some cases, a combination of filters may be necessary.

Here’s a breakdown of common filtration solutions:

• Water Softeners: Best for removing calcium and magnesium (hardness).
• Iron Filters: Best for removing iron and manganese.
• Sulfur Filters: Best for removing hydrogen sulfide (rotten egg smell).
• Whole-House Carbon Filters: Best for removing chlorine, sediment, and other impurities.

Challenge: Many homeowners in Savannah install the wrong type of filter or fail to maintain their existing filters properly. This can lead to ineffective filtration and continued eczema flare-ups.

Solution: Consult with a qualified water treatment specialist to determine the best filtration system for your specific water chemistry. Regularly maintain your filters according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This includes replacing filter cartridges and backwashing the system as needed.

It’s also crucial to consult with a local dermatologist who understands the unique challenges of Savannah’s water quality. They can provide personalized recommendations for managing your eczema and may suggest specific skincare products that are less likely to be irritating.

I spoke with Dr. Emily Carter, a dermatologist practicing in downtown Savannah, who noted, “We often see patients whose eczema improves significantly once they address their water quality issues. Hard water and iron are common culprits, and we encourage our patients to test their well water and consider filtration options.”

Case Study: Sarah, a resident of Pooler, Georgia (part of the Savannah metropolitan area), struggled with severe eczema for years. She tried countless creams and medications, but nothing seemed to provide lasting relief. After testing her well water, she discovered it was extremely hard and contained high levels of iron. She installed a water softener and an iron filter, and within a few weeks, her eczema began to clear up.

Pitfall: Many people assume that if their water looks clear, it’s safe for their skin. This is a dangerous assumption. Many contaminants, like dissolved iron and hardness minerals, are invisible to the naked eye.

Actionable Insight: Don’t rely on visual cues. Always test your well water regularly, even if it looks and smells fine.

Another important consideration is your laundry routine. Washing clothes in hard water can leave mineral deposits on the fabric, which can then irritate your skin. Use a laundry detergent specifically designed for hard water. Consider adding a water softener to your washing machine.

Long-Tail Content: If you live in a specific neighborhood in Savannah, such as Ardsley Park or Gordonston, research if there are any known water quality issues specific to that area. Local neighborhood associations or community groups may have information or resources available.

Value Proposition: By taking proactive steps to test and treat your well water, you can significantly improve your eczema symptoms and enjoy healthier, more comfortable skin. Don’t let your well water be the hidden culprit behind your skin problems. Take control of your water quality and reclaim your skin’s health.