What Is It & How Does It Get Into Water?

Lead is a toxic heavy metal with no safe exposure level. While focus is usually on drinking water, lead in shower water is absorbed through skin and inhaled in steam.

Lead enters water from corroding lead service lines, lead solder in pre-1986 plumbing, and brass fixtures. An estimated 6-10 million U.S. homes have lead service lines.

Health Effects From Shower Exposure

• Skin absorption: Lead penetrates the skin barrier, particularly through damaged or irritated skin
• Inhalation: Lead-contaminated aerosol droplets during showering can be inhaled
• Hair/scalp accumulation: Lead deposits on hair and scalp, creating ongoing exposure
• Children's risk: Children absorb lead more readily from all exposure routes

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:

• Chicago, IL
• Newark, NJ
• Pittsburgh, PA
• Milwaukee, WI
• Cleveland, OH

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

Related Reading

• water quality in Houston, Texas
• water quality in Phoenix, Arizona
• water quality in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania