Effect of Vichy water on catalase activity in the stratum corneum

Vichy spa water is essentially known for its therapeutic action on liver and bile duct functions. Its mechanism of action may be partially explained by the activation of certain digestive enzymes. A literature survey showed that Vichy water has also been used for local application in the treatment of certain dermatoses. Based on these data, the effects of Vichy spa water on the skin were studied using cutaneous enzymatic systems. The first studies were carried out on catalase, an oxidoreductase. The results showed a statistically significant increase ( p <0.05) in the activity of the enzyme in the presence of Vichy spa water both in vitro and in vivo. Considering the involvement of catalase in skin defence against oxygen-derived free radicals generated, its increased activity may explain the beneficial role of Vichy water observed in various dermatoses.