What if I told you that the key to supremely hydrated, less-irritated skin was water? I don't mean that in the way celebrities mean it when they say the only reason their skin looks so good is because they drink a lot of water (insert eye-roll emoji). I'm talking about thermal water: a mineral-rich ingredient that's been around for centuries thanks to its skin-soothing properties.
"Thermal water is water that comes from a hot spring or geothermal spring," says Omorovicza Co-Founder Stephen de Heinrich de Omorovicza. "[It's] a source of groundwater that has been heated and has picked up mineral deposits on its journey to the Earth's surface."
Throughout history, thermal baths have been places people go to heal stressed-out skin and relax their bodies, particularly in places like Budapest, where these thermal baths are ingrained into the culture. "Thermal waters contain natural minerals, such as iron and zinc that contain natural anti-inflammatory and/or antibacterial properties," says Elyse Love, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist. "The combination of water and minerals provides the skin with soothing hydration."
If you don't live near a natural source of thermal water, you're in luck, as many beauty brands have whipped the natural ingredient into skincare. Anyone can benefit from this ingredient, as it's good for all skin types. Thermal water is perfect for anyone who wants a hydrating skincare boost, but Love notes that it's particularly beneficial for soothing irritated skin.
Spray a thermal water mist on before a hyaluronic acid serum or reach for a product with the water blended in—the ways to use this mineral-heavy ingredient are endless. It's a staple on French pharmacy shelves for a reason. Keep reading for our favorite thermal water-laced skincare products, and get ready to watch your skin reap the many benefits.
Stand-out sprays:
As far as thermal water goes, La Roche Posay's is practically sacred. "This water has been protected and sanctioned as therapeutic by the French ministry," says Dr. Karan Lal, MS, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist at Affiliated Dermatology in Scottsdale, Arizona. "I have visited the town of La Roche Posay and the clinic where patients from all over France and the world come for treatment. The water is used to treat patients with eczema, psoriasis, and cancer. This is great for keeping the skin moist and supple. I use it when my eczema is flaring and I want to scratch. The mist hydrates the skin and also helps reduce the itching sensation."
Avène's thermal water has been a staple on my vanity for years, and it's another dermatologist favorite. "It contains probiotics, silicate, and trace elements to soothe, refresh, and hydrate the skin," says Love. "It's the best." Lal also recommends this thermal water spray, noting how easy it is to use.
This thermal water mist doesn't just benefit your skin—it's also a major mood booster. Its neroli and rose scent is subtle but uplifting, but it also helps soothe skin and set makeup.
Vichy is another brand that's known for its thermal water–laced products. Packed with 15 rare minerals and antioxidants, you can count on Vichy's thermal water mist to give skin a major boost.
One of the most active thermal waters on the list, French women have been using Uriage thermal water for years—you'll always see it on their bathroom shelves. It's a similar composition to our natural tears, so it's ultra-gentle and can be used by those with even the most sensitive skin.
Other products spiked with thermal water:
This eye cream is both soothing and hydrating. It also works wonders against puffiness.
This thermal water–rich cream is like a magic elixir for red, stressed-out skin. It strengthens your skin's barrier and aims to help prevent rosacea flare-ups.
If you have dry, sensitive skin, this moisturizer is ideal for you. Not only is it packed with thermal water, but it also has ceramides, glycerin, and niacinamide for supreme moisturization.
This is the most luxe-feeling cleansing balm you'll ever use. It removes dirt and makeup without leaving skin feeling tight, all while nourishing and detoxifying skin.
This serum is simple, and that's what makes it so effective. Thermal water is whipped up with hyaluronic acid and plant sugar to give skin tons of hydration.
Like a spa treatment at home, this purifying and nourishing mask heats up when it comes into contact with water.
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