Using thermal water on your skin can protect it from UV damage, according to studies. As 1 in 3Americans gets sunburned every year, thermal water should become a key part ofyour daily skincare routine. The thermal water comes from hot springs and is most commonly used in some La Roche Posay products. But other than fighting off UV rays, how else will thermal water benefit your skin?
Reduces irritation & inflammation
One study purposely irritated participants’ skin with sodium lauryl sulfate. The irritated area was then treated with either thermal water or purified water. The study concluded that thermal water was better at reducing irritated skin than purified water. This is a promising find as between 50% and 70% of men and women say that they have sensitive skin that is easily irritated. Another study found that thermal water helped to keep a healthy level of the microbiome on the skin and also improved serious skin conditions, including dermatitis and psoriasis.
Tolerating crucial acne treatments
Acne is another form of skin irritation that up to 50 million Americans are currently experiencing. Retinoids are an effective treatment for acne, with a mean 17.7% reduction in comedones in just one week. But not everyone’s skin tolerates retinoids. Common side effects reported include dry skin, skin irritation, and skin peeling. Using thermal water alongside retinoids could help, according to science. Researchers have found that when both are used together, people with acne have a better tolerance of retinoids.
Keeps the skin hydrated
Thermal water is ideal for hydrating the skin. It contains minerals that keep the skin plump and in great condition. Research has found that ittakes just 10 minutes for thermal waterto improve softness, suppleness, and skin comfort. If the skin is left in a dehydrated state for too long, dry, scaly patches will appear. It can also cause wrinkles and a loss of elasticity. If these problems persist, cosmetic surgery can help. Procedures such as eyelid surgery and a neck lift can improve skin hydration. Injectables, such as Botox may also be used to get younger and healthier-looking skin. Askin assessment by a dermatology clinicwill usually be done prior to these procedures and advice will be given on how best to rejuvenate the skin.
Improved wound healing
An animal-based piece of research found thattreating wounds with thermal waterwas more successful than using saline. The researchers concluded that the thermal water improved skin regeneration. It’s important that wounds heal as quickly as possible as open wounds increase the risk of infection and scar formation. Studies have found that people with scars are more likely to have mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety. The fact that thermal water could potentially reduce the likelihood of a scar forming is an important finding and could impact the way wounds are treated in the future.
Thermal water is a simple but effective way to improve skin health. There is still lots of research that needs to be done on thermal water, but the studies done so far are reassuring.