Protective effects of topically applied CO2 -impregnated water

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Bioengineering
• Physical Chemistry

Background:

• Anecdotal evidence suggests CO2-impregnated water benefits hand skin.
• A previous user survey indicated a positive effect in 76% of participants.
• This study aimed to scientifically validate these reported effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effect of CO2-impregnated water on skin physiology using bioengineering methods.
• To compare the effects of CO2-impregnated water versus tap water on induced skin irritation.
• To quantify changes in skin barrier function and hydration.

Main Methods:

• 20 healthy volunteers with induced mild to moderate hand irritation.
• Application of CO2-impregnated water (carbonic acid) or tap water (control) once daily for 1 minute.
• Measurement of transepidermal water loss (TEWL), skin humidity (SH), blood flow (BF), and skin surface pH at baseline and 30 minutes post-application.

Main Results:

• CO2-treated skin showed significantly lower TEWL and pH, and higher SH compared to controls 30 minutes post-application.
• Baseline measurements indicated potentially lower TEWL, BF, and pH, and higher SH in CO2-treated areas.
• Visual assessment revealed less irritation on CO2-treated skin compared to the control side.

Conclusions:

• Topical application of CO2-impregnated water favorably influences skin physiology in irritated skin.
• CO2-impregnated water demonstrated a protective effect against irritation compared to fresh water.
• The findings support the therapeutic potential of carbonated water for skin health.