Understanding the Distinction: Source vs. Spray
It's a common question with a clear answer: you should not drink La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water from the aerosol spray can sold for cosmetic use. The confusion arises from the fact that the actual spring water from its source in La Roche-Posay, France, is indeed consumed by patients at the brand's dermatology thermal center. This consumption, however, is part of a therapeutic regimen under medical supervision and involves water directly from the spring, not the processed, canned retail product. The retail spray and the spring water at the center are two different things with distinct purposes and packaging.
The Thermal Center's Drinkable Spring Water
At the dedicated thermal center in France, the water is a public resource, protected to ensure its therapeutic properties are preserved. The water is naturally low in minerals and rich in selenium, a trace element with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. The center has a long history of treating skin conditions, with oral and drinking treatments being part of the prescribed therapies. The water's specific mineral composition and purity are carefully maintained and monitored for this purpose.
The Retail Product: Formulated for Topical Use Only
The aerosol spray you purchase in stores is a different story. It is hermetically sealed in a sterile, pressurized container to preserve the water's natural properties and ensure it remains free from contamination. This packaging is optimized for creating a fine, micro-droplet mist that can be evenly applied to the skin, where it offers its soothing and antioxidant benefits. The product is rigorously tested for dermatological safety, not for food-grade standards.
Risks of Ingesting the Aerosol Spray
Beyond the fact that it is not intended for consumption, ingesting the contents of the aerosol spray presents several risks:
- Contamination Risks: The packaging, while sterile for external use, is not designed for ingestion. There is a risk of contaminants from the can itself or the manufacturing process that are safe for topical application but not for internal consumption.
- Propellant Ingestion: Aerosol cans contain a propellant to expel the product. While generally considered non-toxic in small amounts, intentionally ingesting propellants is not safe and can be harmful to your health.
- High Mineral Concentration Dangers: While La Roche-Posay's spring water is lightly mineralized, consuming large amounts of any non-regulated mineral water can pose risks. Some thermal waters, especially from untreated, wild springs, can contain high levels of toxic elements like arsenic and sulfur. While the retail product is safe for its intended use, internal ingestion bypasses the natural filtration and bodily processes that mitigate risks.
Comparison: Thermal Center Water vs. Retail Spray
| Feature | La Roche-Posay Thermal Center Water | La Roche-Posay Retail Spray |
|---|---|---|
| Intended Use | Therapeutic treatment, including oral consumption, under medical supervision | Topical application as a face/body mist to soothe and refresh skin |
| Packaging | Served directly from the protected spring source | Hermetically sealed, pressurized aerosol can |
| Processing | Untreated, preserving natural constituents for therapeutic use | Packaged in a sterile environment for dermatological safety |
| Safety Standards | Monitored for therapeutic and consumptive use | Rigorously tested for dermatological use and skin sensitivity |
| Consumption | Yes, under clinical guidance at the center | No, designed exclusively for external use |
Benefits of Using the Spray Topically (Its Intended Use)
The La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water aerosol is highly effective and safe when used for its intended purpose. Benefits include:
- Soothing Irritation: Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties help to calm skin irritation, redness, and itching.
- Refreshing and Hydrating: A simple spritz instantly refreshes and rehydrates the skin, making it ideal for warmer weather or after a workout.
- Setting Makeup: It can be used as a finishing mist to help set makeup, giving a more natural, dewy finish.
- Post-Procedure Care: Dermatologists often recommend it to soothe skin after certain treatments or procedures.
- Antioxidant Protection: The high selenium concentration helps protect the skin from free radical damage.
Conclusion
In summary, while the source water in France has a history of being consumed for therapeutic purposes at the thermal center, you should not drink La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water from the cosmetic aerosol spray. The product is specifically formulated, packaged, and tested for external, topical skin application. Ingesting it poses unnecessary risks, including potential contamination and exposure to non-food-grade materials. To enjoy the scientifically proven soothing and antioxidant benefits of La Roche-Posay's spring water, simply use the spray as intended on your skin(https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3549667/). For any concerns about the health effects of mineral water consumption, always consult a healthcare professional.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information and is not medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional with specific health questions.
