The filter definitely works and significantly improves the condition of my skin and hair. My skin is no longer dry after showers, and feels much softer and smoother to the touch. Since I use natural shampoo and hair products, the softened water from using the filter works very well with them and my once dandruff-ridden hair barely has any now! The only thing that made me leave a star out of the rating is that it's made out of plastic and it's tricky to find the right shower arm that fits the threading of the filter, and with my current shower arm it doesn't fit perfectly and leaks due to different threading (I've already used a substantial amount of plumber's tape to no avail in trying to fix the leakage). That aside, I am still very happy and satisfied with what it does to my skin and hair, and it really is one of the best things I've purchased!