If you often find your hair dull and skin aggravated after showering, a good filtered shower head can help.Their built-in filters are designed to reduce irritating substances commonly found in the water supply, including chlorine, lead and hard-water minerals.The Jolie is our pick for the best filtered shower head overall because it’s third-party lab tested, exceedingly stylish and tester-approved.Canopy’s Filtered Showerhead is our top pick for hair and skin: It’s highly recommended by one expert dermatologist, and one tester highlights its easy filter replacement.
According to Canada-based dermatologist Dr.Christina Han, filtered shower heads can be particularly helpful for those with sensitive skin, dry scalps or conditions like eczema who live in buildings that use hard water.“Hard water essentially contains more metals and minerals like magnesium and calcium that can over-strip the hairs and the scalp of their natural oils,” she says, adding that hard water can also cause more water loss from the skin and scalp, which can lead to flakes and irritation.“A shower filter can help by reducing the hardness of the water.”
Most of our recommendations are backed by third-party lab testing to meet chlorine removal standards, and all of them use KDF-based filtration, a technology that neutralizes chlorine and inhibits bacterial growth.
Still, most shower filters only remove certain types and amounts of contaminants, so the right one for you will depend on your specific needs.Below, find the eight best filtered shower heads based on our extensive research, user testing, and feedback from dermatologists and water systems experts.
Jolie’s sleek option is our top pick because it uses powerful KDF technology to effectively filter up to 150 showers’ worth of water.But furthermore, it has also been tested by three third-party labs to exceed (not just meet) the NSF/ANSI 177 standard for chlorine removal.
Features Expert-Backed KDF Filtration Technology
Experts say the most common and effective shower filtration technology—and the one you’ll find in every model on our list—is KDF, which uses a chemical reaction to neutralize chlorine and reduce heavy metals like lead and mercury (common culprits when it comes to hair and skin issues) in your shower water.
“When paired with calcium sulfite, KDF-55 filters can help target chlorine at different water temperatures,” explains Kyle Postmus, a water systems expert with the National Science Foundation (NSF).
Proven To Curb Shedding And Improve Hair Texture
Besides reducing the substances that contribute to hair buildup and scalp and skin irritation, hair professionals also back the Jolie because of its effectiveness at curbing hair shedding; clinical studies showed a 46% decrease in shedding among participants.
In terms of firsthand experience, our tester credits the Jolie (which was recommended by her hairdresser) with restoring her smooth, easy-to-brush hair, which deteriorated when she first moved into her NYC apartment.
“The Jolie was easy to install myself and, after more than four years of use, I am really happy with the results,” she says.“It has stopped the buildup on my strands, my hair stayed noticeably silkier and easy to brush, and my sensitive skin doesn’t feel as dry and itchy as it did pre-filter.
3-Month Filter Life And 60-Day Trial Period
The Jolie Shower Head’s filter can be used for around three months before needing to be changed, which our tester reports is a quick and easy process.The brand offers a subscription service that automatically delivers new filters on a recurring schedule, and you’ll get 10% off the cost of the shower head itself.Plus, Jolie offers a risk-free 60-day trial period.
Dermatologists have sung the praises of Canopy’s top-notch humidifiers; similarly, the brand’s filtered shower head has garnered skin experts’ stamp of approval due to its reduction of irritants like chlorine, mercury, chromium and chloramine.
Dermatologist-Recommended, 3-Layer Filter
The Canopy Filtered Showerhead is suited to sensitive, easily triggered skin, according to Miami-based dermatologist Dr.Anna Chacon, because of its three-stage filtration system.
“Carbon absorbs unwanted items, [the KDF] copper and zinc combo chemically reduces the contaminants in the water, and calcium sulfite eliminates the chlorine,” she explains.
Together, those layers can filter up to 3,000 gallons of water (about 180 showers, just slightly more than the Jolie).
Further, the Canopy’s effectiveness went through rigorous tests to meet NSF/ANSI 177 standards—though note those were conducted in-house, not independently.Keep in mind, too, that you’ll need to replace the filters more often if you have hard water, according to the brand (and echoed by one on-staff user’s experience).
Uniquely Simple To Install, And Has A Wide-Stream Setting
This pick offers other standout features beyond its skin- and hair-preserving benefits.It has three spray settings and replacing the filter is easy—a quick-release valve means you won’t even need to detach the head.Our tester says, “It was super easy to install—even easier than my old Jolie—and immediately made my shower feel more luxe.” She also found the shower head’s wide-stream setting “similar to a rainfall shower, which I love.”
Great For Aromatherapy, But Not The Best For Super-Hard Water
This model can also diffuse the brand’s proprietary essential oils; the included aromatherapy kit has felt diffusers along with the scents.
However, our panel tester shares one caveat: If you have very hard, mineralized water like the water found in her apartment building, the Canopy’s filter may not be as strong as Jolie’s or other comparably priced models.All said, if you’re not happy with the results after 60 days of using this shower head, you can return it and get your money back.
The Brondell Nebia VivaSpring shower head will please fans of rainfall-style showers, and those who prefer a model with a metal ball joint to make adjusting shower angles easy.But its benefits extend beyond that to include effective filtration, optimal water usage and convenient assembly.
Effectively Reduces Chlorine And Saves You 20% More Water
Specifically, the VivaSpring uses 100% KDF copper-zinc filtration media, which has been independently tested to meet the NSF/ANSI 177 benchmark for reducing chlorine.This type of media is also one of the most effective at filtering out other irritants like mercury from your water .It’s also WaterSense certified by the EPA, meaning it’s 20% more water efficient than a typical shower head.
This model also stands out for its durable construction and ease of assembly; it comes with plumber’s tape, and all of its connections are made with metal, including the ball joint.
Further, you won’t have to remove the shower head whenever you need to replace the filter cartridge.
Filter Lasts 6 Months—But Pressure Tends To Weaken
Possibly the most remarkable feature of this pick is its design to filter up to 10,000 gallons or six months’ worth of water (more than three times as much as with the Jolie and the Canopy).That said, plenty of reviewers say it lasts closer to three months, like its competitors.Some users recommend replacing the filter a couple of months earlier than listed to avoid sacrificing water pressure.Luckily, an extra filter cartridge comes with your purchase, and this model has one of the least expensive filter replacements on our list.
If you prefer a handheld filtered shower head, Cobbe’s affordable six-spray option is popular among reviewers.
The most common highlights are its consistently strong water pressure, effectiveness at softening hard water and plethora of spray settings.
A Unique 15-Stage Filter That Uses Activated Beads
Its 15-stage filter uses standard KDF-55 filtration in the form of beads, unlike typical filtered shower heads that use a one-piece filter cartridge.The beads include activated carbon balls that remove chlorine, heavy metals and other impurities, and various minerals, like maifan stone and tourmaline, to capture larger sediments.While the filter cartridge is not the one of the longest-lasting on the market at about two to four months, its replacement is also quite inexpensive.
Popular Among Renters And Budget Shoppers
In our analysis of reviews, several budget-conscious reviewers who rent and can’t change their existing water system or water pressure say that Cobbe’s option is the next best thing.They highlight its easy, five-minute installation, consistent pressure, six spray modes and how well the filter eases the harsh effects of treated water.
In addition to its filtration prowess, users also praise the Cobbe shower head’s six versatile spray settings (the most of the picks on our list), including pulsing and massage patterns.
As one of the panel testers for this story, I can say that AquaBliss’ SF100 shower filter is a sound choice for those dealing with dry and irritated skin and hair due to hard water.While this inline pick is technically not a shower head, it’s compatible with any standard shower head if you’re looking to upgrade your existing fixture (or you can get it bundled with shower heads).
Effective 12-Stage Filter And Hair-Healthy Mineral Infusions
My roommates and I had a positive experience with this filter during the two years I tested it in my apartment, which is built with old plumbing and uses municipal water.Specifically, we noticed less excessive hair shedding and dry skin during that time.This effectiveness is due to the AquaBliss’ powerful 12-stage filter, which uses a combination of calcium sulfite, KDF, activated carbon and ceramic beads to curb chlorine levels and calcium buildup in hair and scalp (not to mention sparing my faucet and shower liner).
It also helps that the AquaBliss has a unique water infusion mechanism, which infuses the shower water with hair-healthy oxygen and minerals like tourmaline.
The one downside to the SF100, however, is that AquaBliss’ claims are not backed by third-party lab testing (unlike most of the other recommendations on our list).
Easy Filter Changing And Accessible Replacements
I wasn’t the only tester to put the AquaBliss through its paces.Another panel tester who has very hard tap water in her home also approves of this pick after using it consistently for several months.Specifically, she highlights the easy access to filter replacements without needing a subscription, as well as the straightforwardness of filter-changing.This tester adds, “While I don’t have any before-and-after miracle stories, I do think the Aquabliss does the job and gives me peace of mind.Plus, when the old filter is removed, it’s amazing to see how much gunk it collected.”
The Sproos Shower Filter System offers a solution to renters who want a functional, easy-to-install product that adds a bold pop of color to their temporary space.Being the target demographic for this unit, I was lucky to be the one to test this model.
One Of The Easiest To Install, Though It’s A Bit Hefty
I can unequivocally say that this one required the least elbow grease of the three shower heads I’ve installed so far—despite being the option with the most parts.
Specifically, because this is technically a handheld shower head, it also comes with a generous 70-inch hose and a dock.The brand advertises a five-minute installation process, but it took me—very much not a handy person—about three.
And it remains as easy to use to this day, after about a year (so far) of testing.
While the filter cartridge and its housing add extra weight and bulk to the fixture, it also simplifies filter changes because I don’t have to remove and replace the handheld shower head itself during the process.For me, that translates to filter changes that take less than a minute.
An Attractive Fixture On Its Own, But Adding The Filter Is Worth It
Because the Sproos comes with a separate filter cartridge, you can buy the shower head on its own for $69 if you simply want to liven up your traditional shower fixture.On that merit alone, you won’t be disappointed with this pick—you’ll still enjoy its three spray settings and pause feature (I personally find this handy when want to save some water while shampooing or shaving).
But if you live in a place that uses municipal water, I can’t recommend the accompanying filter enough—especially because Sproos has the data to back up its effectiveness.The company sent me a copy of the results from lab testing this filter to the NSF/ANSI 177 standard; it showed about 70% effectiveness at chlorine removal per 10,000 gallons versus the 50% benchmark to meet the 177 standard.I appreciate that the brand is also developing procedures that test its filter for the removal of heavy metals and scale prevention, which don’t currently have defined industry standards.
Still A Standout Performer After Over A Year Of Use
After over a year of using the Sproos in my three-person household, we continue to be happy with it.
The water pressure has stayed impressively consistent, and the colorful matte finish has stayed pristine, though I typically take care to wipe it down every so often when I clean the tub or occasionally spritz it with shower spray.
With similar filtration technology and ease of installation as top competitors like Sproos, Jolie and Canopy, you’d think the Afina is just as expensive.But with a subscription, you’ll only pay $99 for the entire shower head-and-filter bundle, and filters only cost $29 going forward (or $26 if you nab a subscription).Plus, it stands out from the rest with its striking design and extra-wide 7.7-inch.
Industry-Standard Filtration—But Filter Lifespan Is Shorter Than Others
The A-01’s filter is designed for effective chlorine removal (it far exceeds the NSF/NSI 177 standards, thanks to its use of a higher percentage of KDF-55 media).Like some of our other top picks, this filter also uses calcium sulfite, enhancing the KDF’s filtering performance at different water temperatures.
That said, the filter is designed to last only two months—shorter than the typical three-month span—but your first box, luckily, includes a 50% off coupon for the next filter.It’s worth noting that several users say they’re able to get up to three months of effectiveness with the filter before needing to change it, depending on the hardness of their water.
As the tester of this unit, I personally recommend grabbing that second filter replacement before two months is up; better yet, sign up for the subscription.
A Striking, High-Quality Construction
The A-01’s design is also quite striking thanks to the aforementioned generous faceplate—the Jolie’s 6.5-inch faceplate is the only one that comes closest in surface area.
It doesn’t just look sleek but feels hefty, too (the filter itself weighs almost a pound)—which is a sign that it’s a genuine filter, according to Postmus.(Note: Before installing this filter, I took out the cartridge and shook it; it is indeed quite hefty.)
And the wide spray is no joke: After switching from the 5-inch faceplate of my old shower head to this one’s almost-8 inches, it feels like I’m covering more surface area in a shorter span of time.The water pressure was surprisingly even and strong, too.That said, at around the two-month mark, I did notice the water pressure decrease significantly, one of my main knocks against this pick.
Quick, Intuitive Setup And Generous Trial And Warranty Periods
As a non-handy person, I really appreciated the all-in-one kit during installation.It contains a wrench, plumber’s tape and flow restrictor, and a QR code linking to a short installation video.
Admittedly, I didn’t need to use the video because the installation was incredibly simple, taking me about a minute.
Afina also offers a free trial period and 90-day free returns, one of the longest trial periods we’ve seen, if you’re on the fence about this product.Another benefit? If you’re a subscriber, your shower head and filters are covered by a lifetime warranty, no questions asked.
Kohler’s shower heads are known for their style, quality and performance (one of the reasons the brand earned the top spot in our roundup of the best shower heads).After testing the round Cinq filtered shower head for several months, I can attest that it’s no exception: It has a minimal, sleek silhouette, a sizable spray head, and a filter and water efficiency performance that meets multiple industry standards.
A KDF Filter That Uses Activated Charcoal
This model’s filter uses an extra-effective combination of KDF-55 and activated charcoal to remove chlorine: “Granular activated carbon works by ‘trapping’ the chlorine within microscopic pores,” says Postmus.
“KDF-based technologies work by creating a chemical reaction that neutralizes chlorine, turning it into a different and harmless compound.” I also appreciate that it has a built-in dial to track when I should replace the filter, which is roughly every six months.Replacing it is easy too; I don’t need to remove the entire shower head to do so.
Elevates Any Bathroom—But Take Note If You Have Older Plumbing
As far as style goes, the Cinq was definitely an upgrade to my partner’s shower setup.The face of her old shower head had unsightly stains, while this model (we installed the Chrome) has a shiny finish designed to withstand mineral buildup.Its classy appearance also elevated her bathroom.
However, because the pipes in her building are old, we had to use an adapter so that the Cinq’s 1/4-inch thread connection (the standard fit in the U.S.) could connect to the 3/4-inch shower pipe.You likely won’t have to worry about this if you have standard plumbing, but it’s something to consider if you live in an older neighborhood.
Reliable Performance (With 2 Quibbles) After Months Of Use
After about six months of use in my partner’s shower, the Cinq has lived up to its buildup-resistant finish—it still looks as shiny and stain-free as it did when I installed it.The gentle, wide spray has stayed consistently even and soothing, too, but that’s to be expected all the way up to the end of its relatively lengthy six-month lifespan.
My two quibbles with this option, though, has to do with the filter replacement process.First, you can’t order the filter on a subscription, so you’ll have to rely on the built-in tracker and set a reminder for when you need to order more.
Second, the filter replacement is currently on backorder both on Kohler’s site and other e-tailers, so I recommend ordering it now so you can make sure to receive it once it goes back in stock (approximately six to seven weeks from the time of this writing).
Filtered Shower Heads We’re Currently Testing
We’re currently in the middle of evaluating the following highly rated shower head models.Given our findings so far, we think these three options are still worth mentioning.
Read more about them below:
Filterbaby Showerhead Pro: Known for its dermatologist-recommendedfaucet filter, Filterbaby brings the same attention to skin concerns with the Eco Pro showerhead, which was designed by healthcare professionals and has a pending SGS and NSF certification.After four months of testing, one panelist reports less hair shedding, while the water pressure has stayed consistent throughout.The filter at the end of its lifespan also looks “gnarly,” she reports: “It was completely soaked in brown, polluted-looking water—but it’s amazing to see the contaminants that didn’t reach my hair and skin.” I also appreciate that the brand sent over data from two lab tests that show the Filterbaby’s high percentage of efficacy when it comes to removing chlorine, lead, chloramine and other contaminants from water.This model costs $126 with a filter subscription, with replacement filters starting at $42 every 90 days.
Weddel Duo Inline Shower Filter:This is a top-rated, midrange inline filter that’s also NSF-certified and verified to reduce 99% of PFAS, chlorine and other particulates.
It’s also compatible with all standard shower heads, lasts through about 450 showers and comes in three colors.Our tester reports an easy installation with all the tools needed; “The whole process from unboxing to flushing the filter took less than 10 minutes.” It also has a unique “visual monitoring” feature that can either be a pro and a con, depending on your preferences.Our tester explains, “You can see into the filter through the clear plastic casing, which is helpful for knowing when it’s time to change the filter—but slightly gross when it catches particulates (e.g., chunks of mildew).” Despite not having used the filter for its entire lifespan yet, after about two months of use she reports a noticeable difference in her hair and face despite making no other changes to her hair or skincare routines.“My hair has been smoother and shinier and seems to look better for longer in between washes.
Meanwhile, my face no longer gets that tight, dry feeling after getting out of the shower and my skin has looked and felt less dry,” she says.This unit is $85.94 when purchased with a filter subscription, and filters last between five and six months.Aquatru Filtered Showerhead: Aquatru’s high-pressure filtered shower head is currently undergoing NSF 177 testing for chlorine and chloramine removal, but based on our panelist’s experience, its four-layer filter technology is effective at minimizing skin tightness, scalp itchiness and hair dryness in the winter months.The brand’s listed 90-day lifespan is also accurate: “My wife and I both shower at least once a day (sometimes having additional showers after workouts).I didn’t see a noticeable pressure decrease during the 90-day shelf life.” Plus, he highlights the Aquatru’s four spray settings, sturdy and flexible pivot joint, clean design and premium finish.
“It blended well with my fixtures.It’s a little bulkier than a traditional shower head thanks to the filtration system, but it’s far from obtrusive,” he notes.This pick is $149, and filters cost $47 and need to be changed every 90 days.
How We Chose The Best Filtered Shower Heads
To find the best filtered shower heads for every home, I first analyzed models that effectively filter a variety of common water contaminants and can be installed without a professional.
– While researching different products, I chose a mix of fixed and handheld models and options with varying flow rates.
– I selected products that efficiently remove chlorine from shower water and prioritized those that are also effective against heavy metals and minerals.
– I included WaterSense-certified options for those who want to conserve water, as well as models that meet or exceed the NSF/ANSI’s standards for chlorine filtration.
– I consulted a water systems professional and two dermatologists to vet my selection and testing criteria.
– I enlisted other four other Forbes Vetted editors who experience some level of water hardness to help me test my final selections, using those expert-vetted testing criteria.
What To Look For In The Best Filtered Shower Heads
When it comes to which filtered shower head to buy, you’ll want to look at the filter type and proven effectiveness at filtering out chlorine.After that, “it really comes down to preference of aesthetics, ease of installation and how often users are willing to replace it,” says Postmus.Read more about the top criteria below.
Type Of Shower Filter
There are many types of shower filters, including inline shower filters, filtered shower heads, and handheld shower heads with either a built-in filter or an associated in-line filter cartridge.Handheld shower heads like Cobbe’s or Sproos’ options take up more space in your shower, but they can be detached from the mount, giving you a wider range of motion while bathing.An extra feature you may also want to look for is multiple spray patterns.
If you want to improve hair, skin and nail health, look for models that capture excess minerals like calcium and magnesium, which may contribute to buildup and moisture loss.
“Over time, a mineral filter can help prevent unwanted buildup in your shower and also in your hair and scalp,” says Chacon.“This is especially important for those with sensitive skin or conditions like eczema, which might become more irritated.”
Filtration System
It’s important to know what contaminants are in your water so you can target them with an appropriate shower filter.If you aren’t sure what’s in your water, it’s a good idea to send a sample out for testing, use an at-home water testing kit or do the research: “Consumers will want to check their local water quality report to learn what is in their water that they may want to filter out.That can help consumers understand what type of water filter they need to remove those contaminants,” says Postmus.
In addition to looking at a shower head’s listed capacity and flow rate, you’ll want a filtered shower head that targets those specific substances.
For instance, when it comes to removing heavy metals, using KDF filters that rely on ‘metal scavengers’ like titanium dioxide, activated carbon and whole-home water filters can help.“It may also help to check if the filter contains media that inhibits bacterial growth, such as KDF or silverized activated carbon,” explains Postmus.
Postmus adds that homes that use a municipal water supply might benefit from chlorine-filtering shower heads.“Municipal water treatment systems commonly add chlorine to help treat the water and minimize microbial growth while the water is transported to homes.Therefore, certified shower filters are used more often in homes serviced with municipal water.”
Certifications And Third-Party Testing
“I recommend people look for a third-party certified water filter because there are counterfeit water filters on the market that make claims they don’t uphold, or they have counterfeit certifications,” says Postmus.An easy way to confirm unbiased third-party testing is by looking for an NSF-certified filtered shower head.
“[An] NSF/ANSI 177 certification for shower filters assures consumers that the filter effectively removes chlorine from the water,” he says.
Other third-party certifications that test for things like water efficiency and health and safety may also be helpful.The EPA’s WaterSense certification indicates 20% greater water efficiency than the average, and the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) includes standards for water quality, lead content and durability.
Filter Replacement
Most filtered shower heads tell you how often their filters need to be replaced—the average is every 10,000 gallons or roughly every six months.However, this frequency varies depending on your use habits, the size of your household and the quality and hardness of your water supply.You’ll also want to consider how much replacement filters cost.
If filters are $30 each and you have to replace them every few months, the expense will add up quickly, so be sure you’re willing to invest in the necessary upkeep.
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
The Forbes Vetted home editorial team has extensive experience researching, testing and investigating home products across the board, including those that are designed to upgrade your bathroom.
– This story was written by me,
Fran Sales, an updates writer for Forbes Vetted.I have covered home topics for Forbes Vetted for over two years, in addition to four years of prior reporting on a variety of home and kitchen topics for other lifestyle publications.- Our team has also written about, and in some cases tested, other water filtration products to select the cream of the crop, including the best
water filters,water filter pitchers,faucet water filtersandunder-sink filters.- We thoroughly researched the most common water contaminants in treated water and consulted three industry experts to help inform my selection, evaluation and testing process of the best filtered shower heads.
– I regularly review this story to ensure accuracy, relevance and that we still stand behind our picks.I last updated this story in February 2026, incorporating more observations, photos and long-term insights from further panel testing.I also added a section on filtered shower heads we’re still in the middle of evaluating but recommend so far.
Our Experts
Dr.Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD, Miami-based board-certified dermatologist and teledermatologistDr.Christina Han, MD FRCPC, Canadian and U.S.
board-certified dermatologist and the medical director at XYON Health Inc.Kyle Postmus, water systems expert and senior manager at NSF, a leading global public health and safety organization.
