Carbonated Water

Evidence by route

About this ingredient

Carbonated Water (Aqua Carbonatum) is water saturated with carbon dioxide (CO₂) under pressure. In cosmetics it is used as a toner for a short refreshing effect and as a marketing ingredient in k-beauty (bubble masks, sparkling cleansers). Mechanism. On skin, CO₂ releases as micro-bubbles, creating a tingling "freshness" feel. A hypothesis exists that CO₂ stimulates local blood flow (Bohr effect – displaces oxygen from hemoglobin with local rise), but no clinical evidence supports this at cosmetic concentrations. Where applied. Korean bubble cleansers (Elizavecca Milky Piggy Carbonated Bubble Clay Mask), sparkling toners, refreshing face mists. Rarely used in Spain or Europe – dominated by k-beauty. In medicine CO₂ baths (carboxytherapy) are used for cellulite and post-lipedema, but that is not topical cosmetics. Evidence base. No direct clinical RCTs confirm any long-term cosmetic effect of carbonated water. The effect is purely sensory and short-lived (1-2 minutes). Safety. Topical carbonated water is safe. Non-irritating, non-sensitizing. Patients with couperose and rosacea may see worsened erythema due to blood flow stimulation – best avoided in those cases. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Acceptable at any stage. What to expect. A refreshing feel and clean-skin sensation – but only a few minutes. Does not replace a proper moisturizing routine. For sensitive skin and rosacea – not the best choice. Marketing value exceeds dermatologic value.

Tolerability and safety

Frequently asked questions