Dry, Itchy Skin After Showering in Lauderdale Lakes

The comfort factors

• Chloramine: present by design, at levels close to 4 ppm in District 1.
• Hardness: reduced at the county plant; your tap test shows what remains.
• Heat and time: hot, long showers dry skin regardless of water.
• Indoor air and products: air conditioning and harsh soaps add up.

Why shower filters fall short

Shower-head filters hold a small amount of media and the water passes through them in a second. Chloramine reacts slowly, so a small cartridge has little chance to reduce it, and the cartridge runs out fast at District 1's residual. If you try one, look for a specific certified claim for chloramine. A whole-home system with catalytic carbon gives the water far more contact time. Living Water describes its Puronics whole-home systems as removing chloramine and chlorine.

If the test shows hardness

On county water this is less common. On a private well, or in a home that tests hard, softening changes how soap rinses off. See softener vs. filter.

The free chlorine weeks

Some residents notice their skin or hair feels different during District 1's routine free chlorine periods, when the water smells more like a pool. In 2026 that period ran until September 28. It is temporary and part of normal system maintenance.

Habits that help

• Shorter, warm rather than hot showers.
• A mild, fragrance-free cleanser.
• Moisturize while skin is still damp.
• Run the bathroom fan so steam and the chloramine smell clear faster.

These are free and worth trying first. If you still notice a difference between your old home's water and this one, a test of chloramine and hardness at your shower gives you facts to decide with. Many people who move to Lauderdale Lakes from a city that uses free chlorine notice the change from day one.

See a doctor for skin conditions

Eczema, psoriasis, rashes or itching that does not go away need a dermatologist. Filtered water may make showers more pleasant, but we do not claim it treats or prevents any condition. To see your own chloramine and hardness numbers, call, text or WhatsApp (305) 793-5974 for a free test.

Updated 2026-10-17 · Living Waters · Jorge Canela, Water Quality Specialist