What Is It & How Does It Get Into Water?

VOCs (volatile organic compounds) easily evaporate into air. In water, they include industrial solvents, fuel components, and disinfection byproducts.

VOCs contaminate water through industrial discharges, fuel storage leaks, agricultural chemicals, and as disinfection byproducts.

Health Effects From Shower Exposure

• Inhalation exposure: VOCs vaporize rapidly in hot shower water — a primary exposure route
• Enclosed space: Shower stalls concentrate VOC vapors to levels exceeding ambient air standards
• Skin absorption: Many VOCs penetrate the skin barrier during bathing
• Health effects: Linked to liver/kidney damage, nervous system effects, and some are carcinogenic

Regulatory Standards & Health Guidelines

Filtration Methods That Remove It

How Afina Shower Filtration Can Help

Afina's multi-stage filtration system uses activated carbon and KDF-55 media to reduce chlorine, heavy metals, and other contaminants — helping protect your skin, hair, and overall health.

Cities Most Affected

While this contaminant can be found in water systems nationwide, these areas tend to have higher levels:

• Industrial areas
• Near fuel storage facilities
• All chlorinated water systems (THMs)

Check your local water quality at the EWG Tap Water Database by entering your zip code.

Related Resources

• Dry Skin After Shower
• Frizzy Hair After Shower
• Hair Loss After Shower
• Is New York Shower Water Safe?