Is Frankfort, Kentucky Shower Water Safe? What's In Your Water (2026)
Khat Cruz
Last updated: April 2026.
Is Frankfort, Kentucky Shower Water Safe?
Population: 28,602 · Water Source: Kentucky River
For the residents of Frankfort, Kentucky, understanding what's in your shower water is crucial for maintaining optimal health and well-being. While Frankfort's drinking water meets regulatory standards, specific contaminants can still impact your skin, hair, and respiratory health, making it vital to be informed about your daily shower experience.
💧 Where Does Frankfort's Water Come From?
Primary Source: Kentucky River
Frankfort's primary water supply comes from the Kentucky River, a significant surface water source in the region. Water is drawn from the river and undergoes a multi-stage treatment process to ensure it's safe for consumption and use. This process is designed to remove sediments, pathogens, and other impurities common in surface water.
Treatment: Coagulation, Flocculation, Sedimentation, Filtration, Disinfection (Chloramination)
🔬 What's In Frankfort's Shower Water?
Here are the key contaminants detected in Frankfort's water supply based on real testing data from the EWG Tap Water Database:
| Contaminant | Level Found | EPA Limit | EWG Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHXS) | 0.0000 ppt | 1e-05 ppt | 0.0000 ppt | ⚠️ Exceeds EWG Health Guideline (948x above) |
| Haloacetic acids (HAA9) | 46.81 ppb | No federal limit | 0.060 ppb | ⚠️ Exceeds EWG Health Guideline (780x above) |
| Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) | 0.0000 ppt | 4e-06 ppt | 0.0000 ppt | 🚨 ABOVE EPA LIMIT (19x above) |
| Haloacetic acids (HAA5) | 37.71 ppb | 60.0 ppb | 0.100 ppb | ⚠️ Exceeds EWG Health Guideline (377x above) |
| Total trihalomethanes (TTHMs) | 49.39 ppb | 80.0 ppb | 0.150 ppb | ⚠️ Exceeds EWG Health Guideline (329x above) |
| Radium, combined (-226 and -228) | 2.00 pCi/L | 5.0 pCi/L | 0.050 pCi/L | ⚠️ Exceeds EWG Health Guideline (40x above) |
| Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) | 0.0000 ppt | 4e-06 ppt | 0.0000 ppt | ⚠️ Exceeds EWG Health Guideline (24x above) |
| Nitrate | 2.94 ppm | 10.0 ppm | 0.140 ppm | ⚠️ Exceeds EWG Health Guideline (21x above) |
| Arsenic | 0.067 ppb | 10.0 ppb | 0.0040 ppb | ⚠️ Exceeds EWG Health Guideline (17x above) |
| Chromium (hexavalent) | 0.129 ppb | No federal limit | 0.020 ppb | ⚠️ Exceeds EWG Health Guideline (6x above) |
Contaminant Details
Perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHXS)
The health guideline of 0.001 ppt for perfluorohexane sulfonate was defined by EWG based on studies by Phillipe Grandjean of Harvard University and many other independent researchers who found reduced effectiveness of vaccines and adverse impacts on mammary gland development from exposure to PFOA and PFOS, the two PFAS most widely detected in drinking water. This health guideline harm to the developing immune system.
Comparison: State average: 0.0000 ppt. National average: 0.0000 ppt.
Shower Impact: Contaminants in shower water can be absorbed through the skin and inhaled as steam, increasing your daily exposure beyond what you get from drinking water alone.
Haloacetic acids (HAA9)
The health guideline of 0.06 ppb for haloacetic acids (HAA9) was defined by EWG . This health guideline protects against cancer.
Comparison: State average: 31.07 ppb. National average: 23.70 ppb.
Shower Impact: These disinfection byproducts become airborne in hot shower steam. You can inhale and absorb them through your skin, potentially increasing your exposure beyond just drinking water.
Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS)
The health guideline of 0.3 ppt for PFOS was defined by EWG based on studies by Phillipe Grandjean of Harvard University and many other independent researchers who found reduced effectiveness of vaccines and adverse impacts on mammary gland development from exposure to PFOA and PFOS, the two PFAS most widely detected in drinking water. This health guideline cardiovascular harm and harm to fetal growth.
Comparison: State average: 0.0000 ppt. National average: 0.0000 ppt.
Shower Impact: Contaminants in shower water can be absorbed through the skin and inhaled as steam, increasing your daily exposure beyond what you get from drinking water alone.
Haloacetic acids (HAA5)
The health guideline of 0.1 ppb for haloacetic acids (HAA5) was defined by as . This health guideline protects against cancer.
Comparison: State average: 25.17 ppb. National average: 19.82 ppb.
Shower Impact: These disinfection byproducts become airborne in hot shower steam. You can inhale and absorb them through your skin, potentially increasing your exposure beyond just drinking water.
Total trihalomethanes (TTHMs)
The health guideline of 0.15 ppb for trihalomethanes was defined by in a peer-reviewed scientific study by EWG and represents a one-in-one-million lifetime cancer risk level. as a draft public health goal, the level of drinking water contaminant that does not pose a significant health risk. This health guideline protects against cancer.
Comparison: State average: 37.47 ppb. National average: 29.06 ppb.
Shower Impact: These disinfection byproducts become airborne in hot shower steam. You can inhale and absorb them through your skin, potentially increasing your exposure beyond just drinking water.
Radium, combined (-226 and -228)
The health guideline of for radium, combined (-226 and -228) was defined by the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment as . This health guideline protects against cancer.
Comparison: State average: 0.350 pCi/L. National average: 0.332 pCi/L.
Shower Impact: Radioactive contaminants can become aerosolized in shower steam and inhaled, adding to overall exposure.
Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA)
The health guideline of 0.09 ppt for PFOA was defined by California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment as a public health goal, the level of a drinking water contaminant that does not pose a significant health risk. This health guideline Harm to the immune system; harm to fetal growth and child development; increased cholesterol.
Comparison: State average: 0.0000 ppt. National average: 0.0000 ppt.
Shower Impact: Contaminants in shower water can be absorbed through the skin and inhaled as steam, increasing your daily exposure beyond what you get from drinking water alone.
Nitrate
The health guideline of 0.14 ppm for nitrate was defined in a peer-reviewed scientific study by EWG and corresponds to one-in-one-million annual cancer risk level.
Comparison: State average: 0.667 ppm. National average: 0.824 ppm.
Shower Impact: While primarily a drinking water concern, nitrates can contribute to skin irritation during extended shower exposure.
Arsenic
The health guideline of 0.004 ppb for arsenic was defined by the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment as a public health goal, the level of a drinking water contaminant that does not pose a significant health risk. This health guideline protects against cancer.
Comparison: State average: 0.128 ppb. National average: 0.624 ppb.
Shower Impact: Arsenic in shower water can be absorbed through the skin. Long hot showers increase exposure time and absorption.
Chromium (hexavalent)
The health guideline of 0.02 ppb for chromium (hexavalent) was defined by the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment as a public health goal, the level of a drinking water contaminant that does not pose a significant health risk. This health guideline protects against cancer.
Comparison: State average: 0.124 ppb. National average: 0.440 ppb.
Shower Impact: Hexavalent chromium can be absorbed through the skin during bathing, adding to overall exposure beyond drinking water.
🧴 How Frankfort's Water Affects Your Skin, Hair & Health
When you shower, contaminants in the water don't just wash off — they're absorbed through your skin and inhaled as steam. Here's how Frankfort's water quality may be affecting you:
🧖 Skin Effects
- Dryness and irritation, especially for sensitive skin types
- Exacerbation of conditions like eczema and psoriasis
- Premature aging and reduced skin elasticity
- Soap scum residue leading to clogged pores
💇 Hair Effects
- Dry, brittle, and damaged hair strands
- Fading of hair color and loss of natural shine
- Scalp irritation and increased dandruff
- Reduced effectiveness of hair products and dull appearance
🫁 Respiratory Effects
- Irritation of nasal passages and throat from chloramine vapors
- Potential exacerbation of asthma and allergy symptoms
- Exposure to volatile disinfection byproducts through inhalation
- General respiratory discomfort during and after showering
✅ What You Can Do About It
Test Your Water
Consider a home water test kit to get a personalized report on specific contaminants present in your Frankfort home's water. This provides a baseline for understanding your unique water quality concerns.
Install a Quality Shower Filter
A good shower filter can significantly reduce chlorine, chloramine, heavy metals, and other contaminants, leading to noticeable improvements in skin and hair health. Look for filters certified to remove the specific contaminants of concern.
Shorten Shower Times
Minimizing your time in the shower reduces exposure to steam-borne contaminants and absorption through the skin. Aim for shorter, cooler showers when possible to lessen impact.
Moisturize Immediately After Showering
Applying a high-quality moisturizer to damp skin immediately after showering helps to lock in moisture and counteract the drying effects of hard or chlorinated water. This is especially beneficial for eczema sufferers.
Ensure Proper Ventilation
Using an exhaust fan or opening a window during and after your shower helps to dissipate steam and reduce the concentration of airborne contaminants like chloramine and TTHMs. Good ventilation improves overall air quality in your bathroom.
Protect Your Skin & Hair From Frankfort's Water
The easiest way to remove chlorine, heavy metals, and other contaminants from your shower water.
Shop Afina Filtered Showerheads →🛒 Recommended Products for Frankfort Residents
Afina Filtered Showerhead
15-stage filtered showerhead that removes chlorine, heavy metals, and other contaminants while providing great water pressure.
✨ All-in-one solution — filters water and gives you a premium shower experience
Shop Now →Afina Shower Filter
Universal shower filter that attaches to any existing showerhead. Removes chlorine, chloramine, and sediment.
✨ Keep your current showerhead and add powerful filtration
Shop Now →Afina Replacement Filter
Replacement filter cartridge for Afina shower filters. Lasts up to 6 months or 10,000 gallons.
✨ Easy replacement every 2-3 months to maintain peak filtration
Shop Now →❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Related Reading
Is Frankfort tap water safe to shower in?
Frankfort's tap water meets all federal drinking water standards, making it generally safe for showering. However, common disinfectants like chloramine, along with hardness minerals and trace contaminants, can still affect skin, hair, and respiratory health, especially for sensitive individuals. Understanding these impacts helps you decide if additional filtration is right for you.
Why does my skin feel dry and my hair look dull after showering in Frankfort?
Frankfort's water, sourced from the Kentucky River, is moderately hard due to dissolved calcium and magnesium. These minerals, along with chloramine used for disinfection, can strip natural oils from your skin and hair, leading to dryness, irritation, and a dull appearance. Hard water also prevents soaps and shampoos from lathering effectively, leaving residue behind.
Can I smell chlorine in my Frankfort shower water?
Yes, it's common to detect a chlorine-like odor in Frankfort's shower water. The city uses chloramine for disinfection, which can off-gas, particularly in hot shower steam. While this indicates the disinfectant is doing its job, the smell can be unpleasant and contribute to skin and respiratory irritation for some individuals.
Are shower filters really effective for Frankfort's water?
Yes, shower filters can be highly effective in improving your shower water quality in Frankfort. They are designed to reduce specific contaminants like chloramine, heavy metals, and sediment, which are common concerns. Choosing a filter certified for the contaminants you wish to address can significantly mitigate their drying effects on skin and hair, and reduce inhalation exposure.
How does Frankfort's shower water affect eczema sufferers?
For individuals with eczema, Frankfort's shower water can be particularly challenging. The presence of chloramine and hard water minerals can further dry out and irritate already sensitive skin, potentially triggering flare-ups. Reducing these contaminants with a shower filter and adopting a strict moisturizing routine can help manage symptoms and improve skin comfort.
