From dry skin, brittle hair, and scalp issues, hard water can lead to a host of issues. The solution? Well, investing in one of the best hard water shower filters may be the secret to softer, smoother hair and skin. According to research, around 60% of the UK is classed as having hard or very hard water, so it’s likely that many of us could benefit from a shower head upgrade.
Filtered shower heads have likely appeared on your FYP recently, and while TikTok is full of unsolicited beauty tips, experts agree that hard water shower filters are more than just a fleeting trend. Beyond the lingering chlorine scent, hard water harbours chemicals and contaminants like heavy metals that strip the skin of natural oils, causing dryness, irritation, and clogged pores. For hair, it can lead to brittleness, breakage, and scalp issues. And if that’s not already enough, it can also fade coloured hair.
Choosing the best hard water shower filter isn’t as straightforward as picking a new shampoo, though. It’s a bigger investment, and not all filters are created equal. So, we’ve done the research, consulted experts to unpack the issues with hard water, and discovered how it impacts your skin, hair, and scalp.
Below, discover the best tested and reviewed hard water shower filters available. From the viral Hello Klean 2.0, which has garnered thousands of 5-star reviews, to budget-friendly options from Amazon and Wayfair. Trust us, once you experience the difference of showering with filtered water, you’ll wish you’d made the switch sooner.
SKIP TO: Our full reviews | How we test hard water shower filters | What is a hard water filter? | How does hard water affect hair & skin? | How often should shower filters be replaced? | What to look for when shopping for the best shower filter | Do shower filters actually work for hard water?
Meet the experts:
What is a hard water filter?
A hard water shower filter is designed to remove chlorine and heavy metals such as copper, lead, and iron, which can be harsh on your hair and skin. “Unlike traditional water softeners that require a plumber, permanent installation, and ongoing maintenance, these compact filters simply attach to your existing shower in minutes” says Karlee, Founder of Hello Klean.
How does hard water affect hair & skin?
Hard water can be harsh on both hair and skin due to its high mineral content. “When wet hair dries, dissolved minerals like calcium and magnesium crystallise on the hair shaft, forming a physical barrier that blocks moisture from being absorbed,” explains Karlee. “This crystallisation roughens the cuticle, which is why hair can appear dull. “The effects are even more damaging for colour-treated hair — chlorine oxidises colour molecules, while copper binds to hair proteins and triggers colour shifts,” says Karlee. When it comes to skin, hard water can strip away natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and increased sensitivity. It may also aggravate conditions like eczema or psoriasis and leave a residue that makes it harder for moisturisers and skincare products to absorb effectively.
How we test hard water shower filters at GLAMOUR:
Buying the best hard water shower filter isn’t as simple as picking up a new shampoo. They’re a bigger investment — and not all filters are made equal. To help you spend your money wisely, we spoke to industry experts, combed through hundreds of customer reviews, and tested market-leading models ourselves. Each filter was assessed for ease of installation, water pressure, filtration effectiveness, design, price, and the long-term effects on our skin and hair.