Does Tap Water Cause Acne? Here’s Why Some Dermatologists Are Saying Yes

Whether you’re using cleansers, toners, or moisturizers as part of your daily skin care routine, we all share the collective goal to clear away our impurities and have smooth, acne-free skin. But there’s one thing that we’re all using which may actually be the cause of our skin troubles in the first place: tap water.

Unless you’re super rich and have the time to wash your face using bottled water, you’re most likely rinsing your face using the tap water from your bathroom sink. Trouble is, that could be the source of breakouts.

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Racked interviewed NYC-based Dermatologist Dr. Dennis Gross, who said that heavy metals such as iron, copper, and zinc, all found in tap water, are free radicals (unstable, reactive molecules that damage living cells), which can destroy collagen, causing wrinkles, inflammation, acne and rosacea.

But don’t worry, there is a way to continue your skin care routine without avoiding water. Use products with high levels of antioxidants, Gross said.

Dermatologist Dr. Julie Russak, also interviewed by Racked, suggested adding a micellar water to your skin care routine.

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“It’s a great option, as it is a no-rinse makeup remover that gently cleanses makeup, dirt, and debris without stripping the skin, so it maintains the skin’s moisture balance,” Russak said.

Thanks for the heads up.