Hydrobiome of Thermal Waters: Potential Use in Dermocosmetics

Abstract

Over the course of the last 20 years, numerous studies have identified the benefits of thermal waters on different skin conditions. Consequently, several investigations have been carried out on their effects on the skin, which are linked to their chemical composition, and, recently, scientists have turned their attention to the role of the thermal spring’s microbiota, named “hydrobiome”, regarding these therapeutic effects. At the same time, the development of cosmetics based on pre, pro, and postbiotics has reached great relevance and research is increasing every day. This review gathers information on the biological diversity of thermal spring waters and their potential use in obtaining biological compounds, metabolites, or bacterial extracts for use in dermocosmetics as active ingredients. These bioactive compounds are able to improve dermatological diseases such as atopic dermatitis or rosacea and ameliorate pruritus and xerosis; moreover, they can increase protection against UV exposure, strengthen barrier function, maintain good homeostasis of skin defenses, repair damaged skin, promote wound healing, improve skin condition, reduce uneven skin pigmentation, and prevent skin aging. From a future perspective, fruitful cooperation among researchers, hydrologists, thermal spa centers, and cosmetic industries will drive this sector toward a better understanding of the role of the hydrobiome of thermal spring waters on healthy skin and dermatological diseases and consider the inclusion of derivatives of this hydrobiome (in the form of fermenters, lysates, extracts, etc.) in dermocosmetic formulations. Therefore, and being aware of the potential of the hydrobiome in dermatological and skin care applications, the future prospects for the use of bioactive substances derived from it in dermocosmetic formulations are promising.

Potential Benefits of a Cosmetic Ingredient Combining Thermal Spring Water and Diatom Algae Extract

“…In this scenario, we presented the analysis of a spring water, LS-TSW, which emerges in the region of Cantabria, in the north of Spain. Under our analysis, LS-TSW is classified as chloride, sodium, sulphate, bicarbonate, calcium, and magnesium mineral water [15,21]. Comparing with other thermal spring waters used in dermocosmetics and skin care, due to its high chloride content, it could be of interest in the treatment of different skin disorders, such as psoriasis and sensitive skin.…”

“…With some of these features, it has been declared as medicinal mineral water by the IGME (Instituto Geológico y Minero de España) and the Department of Industry (Autonomous Government of Cantabria). According to the mineral content, La Solia TSW is classified as chloride, sodium, sulphate, bicarbonate, calcium, and magnesium mineral water [15,21]. Many beneficial properties have been assigned to different spring waters.…”

“…Caccipuoti et al [14] described recent evidence of major dermatologic diseases that are frequently treated by balneotherapy with a remarkable rate of success. Authors considered that balneotherapy offers several advantages: no chemicals or potentially harmful drugs are needed; there are almost no side effects during and after treatment, and there is a low risk to the patient's general health and well-being [15]. Thus, TWS are of special interest for their use in the chronic inflammatory diseases of the skin.…”

“…On the other hand, the study of the biological communities, the so-called hydrobiome, of TWS has aroused great interest in the last decade, and several cosmetic companies investigated the potential of extracts, lysates, and ferments obtained from them as active cosmetic ingredients [16]. One of these aquatic microorganisms of interest is Phaeodactylum tricornutum, whose extracts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fucoxanthin with documented benefits in sensitive skin treatments [17], due to their anti-inflammatory activities [18,19].…”

Utilization of Multi-Ionic Interaction of Yumoto Hot Springs for Enhancing the Moisturizing Properties of Hyaluronic Acid Sodium Salt

“…In previous studies, in vivo investigations were conducted using a dermocosmetic formulation (M89PF) comprising 80% Vichy mineral water, 5% V. filiformis lysate (cultivated in Vichy mineral water), 4% niacinamide (vitamin B3), 0.4% hyaluronic acid, and 0.2% vitamin E. The aim was to assess the clinical effectiveness in preventing and repairing stressed skin. Findings revealed that the M89PF dermocosmetic formulation significantly expedited skin renewal in comparison to untreated skin [12]. These substances have been found to have various effects on the skin, such as moisturizing and sterilizing effects.…”