As an expert in environmental health, I'd like to clarify some misconceptions regarding the absorption of lead through the skin. Lead is a toxic metal that can be harmful to human health when ingested or inhaled. However, the primary concern with lead exposure is ingestion, particularly through contaminated water or soil. The skin acts as a barrier and is generally not permeable to lead, which means that lead cannot easily pass through the skin into the bloodstream.

When it comes to lead in water, the primary risk is through drinking or accidentally ingesting water that contains lead. The human body does not absorb lead through the skin when bathing in lead-contaminated water. This is because the skin is designed to protect us from harmful substances, and its outermost layer, the stratum corneum, is composed of dead cells that form a barrier against environmental toxins.

It's important to note that while the skin is a barrier, it is not completely impermeable to all substances. There are certain conditions and substances that can affect the skin's permeability, but these are typically not the case with lead in water. The absorption of lead through the skin would require direct contact with a lead-containing substance in a form that can penetrate the skin, such as lead dust or lead paint chips, which are not typically found in water.

Once lead enters the body, it can be absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract if ingested. This is why it's crucial to avoid drinking water that is known to be contaminated with lead. Lead can also be inhaled if it is in the form of dust or fumes. Once in the bloodstream, lead can be distributed throughout the body and can compete with calcium for absorption by the body's tissues. This competition can lead to a range of health problems, particularly in children, as lead can affect the development of the brain and nervous system.

In summary, the risk of lead exposure primarily comes from ingestion and inhalation, not through the skin. Bathing in lead-contaminated water is generally considered safe as long as the water is not consumed. It is essential to test your water for lead if you suspect contamination and to take appropriate measures to reduce exposure, such as using water filters certified to remove lead or replacing lead service lines if necessary.

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Lead can also be inhaled or sometimes even absorbed through the skin, though lead can't move from water into skin, so it's safe to bathe in lead-contaminated water as long as you don't drink it. Once it's in the body, lead competes with calcium to be absorbed by the body.Jan 18, 2016read more >>