Thermal Spring Water
Thermal Spring Water
Product Description
Product overview
A clinically-proven thermal spring water mist sourced directly from Avène, France. Backed by 150+ scientific studies, this iconic spray soothes, softens, and calms sensitive, irritated, or reactive skin with its unique mineral composition and postbiotic microflora.
50+ Year Journey
Water travels through the Cévennes Mountains for over 50 years, absorbing trace elements and achieving its unique mineral balance.
Texture & feel
SENSORY50+ Year Journey
Water travels through the Cévennes Mountains for over 50 years, absorbing trace elements and achieving its unique mineral balance.
Postbiotic Microflora
Contains Aquaphilus dolomiae, a unique microorganism that provides biological soothing properties recognized by dermatologists.
Rich in Silicates
High silica content creates a protective film on skin that soothes irritation and helps improve skin texture naturally.
Medical Heritage
Used at the Avène Hydrotherapy Center since 1743 to treat chronic skin conditions including eczema, psoriasis, and burns.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEConfirmed safe by Avène. Contains only thermal water and nitrogen - no active ingredients that could affect pregnancy.
Contains zero fatty acids, oils, esters, or ferments that feed malassezia yeast. Completely safe for fungal acne sufferers.
Gentle enough for use on infants 6 months and up. Recommended for diaper area irritation and sensitive baby skin.
Dermatologist recommended after laser treatments, chemical peels, phototherapy, and aesthetic procedures.
Can be used with all skincare actives including retinoids, AHAs, BHAs, and vitamin C. Helps buffer irritation from strong actives.
Hypoallergenic formula tested to minimize risk of allergic reactions. Suitable for ultra-sensitive and reactive skin.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAvène Thermal Spring Water 99%+Clinically Proven
Natural thermal water sourced from the Sainte-Odile spring in Avène, France. Characterized by low mineral content (266 mg/L), optimal 2:1 calcium-to-magnesium ratio, high silicate content, and unique postbiotic microflora (Aquaphilus dolomiae).
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces skin inflammation and irritation through balanced mineral composition
- Antioxidant: Provides free-radical protection through trace elements including manganese, zinc, and selenium
- Barrier Support: Silicates create a protective film that helps restore skin barrier function
- Soothing: Proven in 150+ studies to calm redness, itching, and sensitivity
Nitrogen PropellantSafe
Non-flammable, inert gas used as an environmentally-friendly propellant to deliver the ultra-fine mist. Nitrogen makes up 78% of the air we breathe and is completely safe for skin contact.
- Ozone-Friendly: Does not deplete the ozone layer unlike older aerosol propellants
- Preservative-Free: Sterile pressurized packaging eliminates need for preservatives
- Fine Mist: Creates exceptionally fine, even spray distribution
2 ingredients
Avène Thermal Spring Water (Avène Aqua), Nitrogen
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse after cleansing to prep skin, or anytime throughout the day to refresh. Can also be used to set makeup, after sun exposure, post-shave, or whenever skin needs soothing.
How to use
HOW TO USEHold Upright & Spray
Hold the can upright (do not shake). Spray onto skin in a fine mist from 8-12 inches away, covering face and neck.
Wait 2-3 Minutes
Allow the thermal water to sit on skin for 2-3 minutes so minerals can absorb and work their soothing magic.
Gently Pat Dry
Gently pat excess water dry with a soft tissue or towel. Do not rub to avoid irritation. Continue with your routine.
Pro Tip: Refrigerate
Store in the refrigerator for an extra cooling, refreshing effect - perfect for sunburn relief or hot summer days.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have sensitive, reactive, or easily irritated skin
- You suffer from rosacea, eczema, or psoriasis
- You need post-procedure care (laser, peels, waxing)
- You use strong actives (retinoids, acids) and need to buffer irritation
- You want a refreshing mist for hot weather or travel
- You need to soothe sunburn or razor burn
- You want to set makeup with a natural, dewy finish
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need safe skincare
Consider alternatives if:
- You want a mist with added active ingredients (HA, niacinamide)
- You prefer a higher mineral content for anti-aging benefits
- You need a toner replacement with pH-balancing acids
- You're on a very tight budget (thermal water is a luxury item)
- You don't have any specific skin sensitivities or concerns
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe gold standard for sensitive skin. Low mineral content and neutral pH minimize irritation while soothing redness and reactivity.
Lightweight, oil-free, non-comedogenic. Won't add shine or clog pores. Refreshes without any greasy residue.
Provides soothing and light hydration. Best when followed immediately with a moisturizer to seal in benefits.
Balances well across different face zones. Hydrates dry areas without adding oil to T-zone.
Non-comedogenic (0/5 rating), fungal acne safe. Soothes irritation from acne treatments without causing breakouts.
National Eczema Association approved. Clinically proven to reduce redness and inflammation in chronic skin conditions.
Results timeline
ONGOING USEInstant Soothing & Cooling
Immediate relief from redness, burning sensations, and skin discomfort. Provides instant refreshment and a calming sensation.
95% feel immediate comfortReduced Sensitivity & Redness
With consistent daily use, skin sensitivity decreases and visible redness is noticeably reduced. Skin feels softer and more balanced.
87% report reduced sensitivityImproved Skin Texture
Skin barrier function improves. Skin texture becomes smoother and more resilient. Better tolerance to environmental stressors.
78% notice improved textureLong-Term Skin Health
Maintained skin comfort and reduced reactivity. Enhanced results from other skincare products. Calmer, healthier-looking complexion.
92% continue regular useRatings by platform
16K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Instantly soothes and calms irritated, red, sensitive skin
- Ultra-fine mist with excellent nozzle spray quality
- Backed by 150+ clinical studies - proven efficacy
- Safe for pregnancy, breastfeeding, babies, and all conditions
- No fragrance, parabens, or irritating ingredients
- Perfect for post-procedure care and active buffering
- Sets makeup beautifully with dewy finish
- Large 300ml bottle lasts 2+ months with daily use
Criticized
- Expensive for what is essentially mineral water
- Must pat dry or follow with moisturizer to avoid drying effect
- No added active ingredients like hyaluronic acid
- Effects may feel subtle to those without sensitive skin
- Small 50ml travel size depletes quickly
- Spray pressure decreases as can empties
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESHigher selenium content for antioxidant benefits. Slightly larger spray droplets. Better for normal/oily skin. Same price point but different mineral profile.
Highest mineral content (15 minerals) of all French thermal waters. Better for anti-aging. May be too strong for ultra-sensitive skin. Great value.
Natural mineral water but not thermal. No clinical studies. Fine mist quality. Basic hydration without the therapeutic benefits. More affordable option.
Highest mineral content (11,000 mg/L vs Avène's 266 mg/L). Isotonic - similar to tears. May leave slight residue. Good for whole family.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
36 MONTHSNo standard expiration - sterile packaging maintains purity. Use within 36 months of opening for best results.
Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight. Refrigerate for extra cooling effect (recommended for summer use).
Pressurized aluminum aerosol can with nitrogen propellant. Sterile environment packaging ensures purity from source to skin.
50ml size is TSA-approved for carry-on luggage. Larger sizes must be checked or purchased at destination.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, absolutely safe. Avène confirms all their products can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and Thermal Spring Water contains only water and nitrogen - no active ingredients, retinoids, or chemicals that could affect pregnancy. It's one of the safest skincare products available for expecting and nursing mothers.
Yes, 100% fungal acne safe. The formula contains only thermal water and nitrogen - zero fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates, or fermented ingredients that feed malassezia yeast. It's one of the cleanest, safest products for fungal acne sufferers and is frequently recommended in fungal acne safe product lists.
Yes! Avène Thermal Spring Water is compatible with all skincare actives. In fact, it's ideal for buffering irritation from strong actives like retinoids and acids. Use it before applying your actives to prep skin, or after to soothe any irritation. Many dermatologists recommend it specifically for patients using prescription retinoids.
Avène Thermal Spring Water is excellent for all skin types but particularly outstanding for sensitive, reactive, irritated, or compromised skin. It's the gold standard for rosacea, eczema, psoriasis, and post-procedure care. Those with normal skin who don't experience sensitivity may find the effects subtle.
You'll feel immediate soothing and cooling effects with the first spray. Reduction in redness and sensitivity typically occurs within the first week of consistent use. Improved skin texture and barrier function develop over 2-4 weeks. For chronic conditions like eczema or rosacea, ongoing use provides cumulative benefits.
Use immediately after cleansing to prep skin for the rest of your routine. Spray, wait 2-3 minutes, pat dry, then continue with toner, serums, moisturizer, and SPF. You can also use it anytime throughout the day - after sun exposure, post-workout, to refresh makeup, or whenever skin needs calming.
No, it has a comedogenic rating of 0/5. Avène states the product won't clog pores and is non-comedogenic. With only water and nitrogen in the formula, there are no pore-clogging ingredients whatsoever. It's safe for acne-prone skin and won't cause breakouts.
The sterile, pressurized packaging means there's no standard PAO (Period After Opening) - the water remains pure as long as the can functions. For optimal efficacy, use within 36 months of opening. The 300ml bottle typically lasts 2-3 months with twice-daily facial use.
Verdict: Avène Thermal Spring Water is the gold standard for sensitive skin care, backed by over 275 years of therapeutic use and 150+ clinical studies. While skeptics may dismiss it as "expensive water," those with truly sensitive, reactive, or compromised skin understand its irreplaceable value. The unique combination of low mineral content, postbiotic microflora, and optimal calcium-to-magnesium ratio makes it gentler than competitors. Perfect for rosacea, eczema, post-procedure care, and buffering strong actives. Not essential for those without skin sensitivities, but a holy grail product for those who need it.
Browse related
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Nitrogen
Propellant
|
|





