Does Your Skin Need Special Water?

The French have perfected cheese, croissants, and now...water? They’ve been extracting aqua from some of the most mineral-rich environments for hundreds of years, and now they are bottling it for use on your face! Perhaps the most well-known fancy facial water is Evian Mineral Face Spray—yes, the same company behind the bottled spring water—sourced from a small Alpine town on Lake Geneva. Fortunately, most of France is filled with glaciers, lakes, and rivers that are practically untouched by human hands and full of essential minerals and nutrients. And while toner, a similar kind of product, is typically formulated with a cocktail of essential oils, thermal water is virtually additive-free. French citizens take their spring water seriously—treatment at these thermal springs is covered by their national health care! Try some of our favorite thermal sprays and embrace water, à la Française.

Avène Thermal Spring Water

Avène crafts all of its skin care with world-renowned, mineral-rich water found in the southwest Avène region of France. Packed with calcium, magnesium, and silica, this water is ideal for those with sensitive skin or who suffer from eczema. Spray this on your face in the morning and evening before moisturizing, and you’ll notice hydrated, plump, and more glowing skin. The 300 ml bottle (priced at $16) will last you ages.

Vichy Thermal Spa Water

Vichy’s thermal spa water is sourced from central France. Loaded with 15 regenerating minerals and antioxidants, it protects your skin against free radicals and helps prevent fine lines and the signs of aging. Try this facial water if you have allergies, rosacea, or very sensitive skin.

La-Roche Posay Thermal Spring Water

Similar in composition to Avène’s thermal spring water, La-Roche Posay’s water hails from—you guessed it—the northern region of La Roche-Posay. This anti-inflammatory mist hydrates, soothes, and locks in moisture., Try it on a sunburn or after shaving your legs to reduce irritation. People who live in a desert climate will love this for alleviating dry, dull skin.