What Is It & How Does It Get Into Water?

Mercury is a potent neurotoxin affecting brain, kidneys, and nervous system. It exists as inorganic mercury, organic methylmercury, and elemental mercury in water.

Mercury enters water from geological sources, coal-fired power plants, mining, and industrial discharges.

Health Effects From Shower Exposure

• Skin absorption: Organic mercury compounds penetrate the skin barrier
• Inhalation: Elemental mercury can vaporize in hot shower conditions
• Hair accumulation: Mercury deposits in hair (used for exposure assessment)
• Neurological: Even low-level chronic exposure may affect cognitive function

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:

• Areas near coal plants
• Mining communities
• Industrial regions

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