IT'S nothing new to hear people claim that washing with water is bad for the skin.

The ever-expanding skincare industry however, has made it easier for people to step away from the taps altogether, in terms of their daily cleansing regime.

It might sound trivial, but what's going on with our skin can feed into our wellbeing on a wider level, affecting not only how confident and comfortable we feel, but our overall mojo - so looking after it is important. Not to mention all those other considerations, too; are the products I'm using damaging the environment, does it contain toxins I'd perhaps rather not slap onto my body?

But is this just a concern for people with skin conditions, like eczema, psoriasis and allergies? Or is it something we should all be thinking about?

Like lots of things, skincare isn't one-size-fits all. Before you vow to become a devoted water-dodger and rush to stock up on wipes, lotions and potions to use for cleansing instead, let's scrub up on the basics.

:: Water isn't always the same

It might look the same, but depending on your location, what comes out of the tap can be very different, in terms of its precise mineral contents and PH levels. We've all heard about 'hard' and 'soft' water; this relates to its specific mineral ions content, largely determined by the rocks found in different regions. Hard water usually contains high levels of calcium or magnesium compounds. There are varying degrees of hard and soft water too, and both potentially have their pros and cons.

Everybody's different

Not only is water different, but how we react to it is an individual thing too. "Everyone's skin's different, which is why we all react differently to various elements," says Dr Toni Phillips, clinical director at DestinationSkin (www.destinationskin.com). "We use water everyday, but even this seemingly innocent part of our everyday lives can react badly with certain skin types. 'Hard' water in particular can cause problems, as it has a high metal and mineral content that makes it more difficult to wash off beauty products, and can cause dryness, acne and even eczema."

Soft water can irritate some skins too, "leading to dryness and redness due to impurities naturally present in the water", adds Phillips.

She'd advise people to consider products that counteract any negative effects, and which are suitable to their specific skin type.

Be cautious with wipes

They're super-convenient, so it's no wonder cleansing wipes are popular. But they could do some people's skin more harm than good (not to mention the environmental impact, with recent reports showing alarming increases in wipes washing up on beaches).

"A lot of wipes contain Methylisothiazolinone [MI], a well-known preservative, and we're seeing a problem with people becoming sensitised to MI and experiencing eczema-like reactions," says consultant dermatologist Dr Justine Hextall (www.sussexdermatologist.co.uk). "Quite commonly, I see people returning from holiday with dry, sore skin around their eyes, and it turns out they took wipes with them to use while they're away."

Once sensitisation is 'switched on', even using one wipe could trigger a reaction. "It can happen in parents who are using wipes for nappy changing too, via the hand contact," Hextall adds.

A number of brands have removed MI from products, but bear in mind that items labelled as 'suitable for sensitive skin' may still contain chemicals that could trigger a reaction. "Often these products will just contain less or no fragrances," notes Hextall.

All about the PH balance

Our natural skin barrier PH is slightly acidic, and disrupted PH levels can result in dry and sensitive skin, and flare-ups in people with skin conditions. That tight sensation after washing with soap? No, it's not because your skin's nice and squeaky-clean - it's because it's become too alkaline, notes Hextall. "An alkaline skin barrier is less effective, there is increased trans-epidermal water loss, which makes it hard to retain moisture, leading to that dry, tight feeling," she explains. "I see a lot of patients who are obsessed with whether they're using the right moisturiser, and how much moisturiser they're using. Often I say we need to take a step back and look at what they're actually washing with, as this is probably a big factor."

How hard or soft the water is plays a part in PH levels, but the products you use to wash with - soap tends to be very alkaline - could be a factor too.

Instead of just reaching for the wipes though, look for cleansers that are gentle and slightly acidic, this will counteract the effects of alkaline water and skin (Avene and Cetaphil are worth checking out).

TRIED AND TESTED

Abi Jackson (sea)weeds out a soak with a difference

WHAT IS IT?

Made with organic hand-cut seaweed and Dead Sea salt, VOYA Lazy Days is a bath soak kit which promises to aid in relaxation and skincare. Activated by hot bath water, the seaweed's alginate properties are believed to help moisturise, boost skin repair and protect against ageing.

WHAT'S IT LIKE?

In the box, the seaweed is dry, but it rehydrates when soaked in a hot bath. You need to add it to the bath before you get in - and then check the temperature once the seaweed's activated, as you may need to add some cold water at this stage. Also, be very careful stepping into and getting out of the tub, as the seaweed can be very slippy - perhaps not something for your granny to attempt alone! However, while it looks rather green and slimy, I did really enjoy my salty seaweed soak, and found it soothing for mind and body. Afterwards, my skin felt noticeably softer and smooth and I felt calmed and ready for a good night's sleep. The seaweed can be dried and re-used within three days (and apparently makes a good garden fertiliser too). It is a bit more effort than your average bath, but will certainly appeal to spa fans - just do please be careful not to slip!

VOYA Lazy Days, £16 (www.voya.ie)

FANCY A SUMMER CHALLENGE?

Fun runs are a great way to boost your health and fitness, giving you a realistic goal to work towards, with the often the added bonus of raising money for a good cause at the same time. Roping in family and friends can give the challenge an extra confidence-boosting and rewarding edge. Check out these three - remember to register soon if you're keen!

Run Or Dye

For a full-on party atmosphere, these runs are all about the fun factor, with entrants showered with a rainbow of colourful dyes as they make their way around the 5km route (it's eco-friendly cornstarch dye and washes off!). Try and out-run the blasts, or simply jog and skip through the psychedelic clouds to your heart's content - there's music too. Raise money for Help for Heroes, the official charity partner, or just get a gang of mates or colleagues together for some multi-coloured bonding! Various locations until October 18. Visit www.runordye.co.uk

Morrisons Great Run Series

As well as 5km and 10km events at various UK locations throughout the year, there are also Mini and Junior Runs for kids and young teens. A great challenge for anybody who's taken up running and keen to improve, and possibly progress to longer events in the future. You can fundraise too, with the option to choose from a range of charities. What's more, Virgin Trains is partnering the events and offering up to 50% off advance fares for competitors and their supporters. Visit www.greatrun.org

Cancer Research Race for Life

There's always a fantastic, supportive atmosphere at these popular pink-themed fundraising runs, in aid of Cancer Research UK. It doesn't matter how fit you are - you can walk around if you want - but you're bound to get loads out of taking part. As well as the 5k and 10k runs, there are now even longer and more challenging events to choose from too, and with almost 300 Race for Lifes taking place across the UK, there's bound to be one near you. Visit raceforlife.cancerresearchuk.org