The “slimy” or “smooth” feeling you experience after using softened water is due to the following reason
1. Softened Water Lacks hardness causing minerals
- Hard water contains high levels of calcium and magnesium ions, which combine with soap to form a residue called soap scum. This residue makes your skin feel rough and “squeaky clean” after washing, as it leaves behind a layer of soap deposits.
- Softened water has these calcium and magnesium ions replaced with sodium or potassium ions. This process eliminates soap scum, allowing soap to rinse off more easily.
2. Skin’s Natural Oils Are Preserved
- Soft water allows soap to lather more effectively and rinse off thoroughly, leaving behind only the skin’s natural oils.
- This natural layer of oil on the skin feels smooth or slippery, which is often mistaken as “slimy.”
3. Reduced Soap Usage
- With softened water, one need less soap or shampoo to create lather. Excess soap rinses off more easily, preventing the dry, rough feeling associated with hard water.
4. Perception of “Cleanliness”
- People accustomed to hard water might associate the squeaky feeling with cleanliness, but it’s actually due to the residual soap scum. Soft water leaves no such residue, leading to the smoother sensation.
Tips to Adjust to Softened Water:
- Use less soap or shampoo, as softened water increases their effectiveness.
- If the sensation feels odd, consider diluting softened water with a small portion of unsoftened water (if available) for washing.
