HISTORY
Japan is home to over 3,000 onsen, each with unique mineral compositions, including the rare moor hot spring. As the only botanical (moor) hot spring in Japan, it has been designated as a Hokkaido heritage item. The water, derived from reeds and other native plants that have accumulated deep in the ground over time and heated by geothermal heat, is noted for its gentle properties and high content of natural moisturizing ingredients. Located on the bank of the Tokachi River, this onsen is recognized for its exceptional skin-moisturizing effect and is often referred to as Bijin-no Yu, meaning "hot spring for beauty." The organic matter and humic acid present in the water provide a spa therapy experience similar to moor bathing in Germany, which uses water mixed with dried and powdered peat, offering excellent skin-moisturizing and smoothing effects.
The red-brown, amber-colored water contains abundant natural moisturizing ingredients and is effective for various health conditions, including neuralgia, muscle pain, and chronic skin diseases. It is a weakly alkaline hypotonic high spring, rich in sodium chloride and bicarbonate. Drinking the water is said to aid in treating chronic gastrointestinal issues, constipation, diabetes, and liver disease. The combination of therapeutic and beauty benefits makes this onsen highly sought after for both health and skincare.
SCIENCE
The goal of collaborating with leading scientists from around the globe was to harness the mystical healing properties of moor onsen water. After several years of exhaustive research and innumerable experiments, a groundbreaking discovery was achieved: a fermentation process that transforms moor onsen water into an organic compound of skin-renewing acids, known as BIYUSEN™. This proprietary onsen water, infused into all product formulas, has been clinically proven to restore skin to its healthiest state.
At the heart of BIYUSEN™ onsen water are three key components: fulvic acid, humic acid, and hymatomelanic acid. These acids are derived from peat extract, a rich source of organic compounds formed during the decomposition of plant matter. Fulvic acid, known for its powerful antioxidant properties, enhances the skin's natural defense mechanisms. The absorption of oxygen and water is facilitated by fulvic acid, ensuring the skin remains hydrated and resilient. This improvement in hydration and strengthening of the skin’s defenses makes fulvic acid an indispensable part of skincare formulations.
The lifespan of hyaluronic acid molecules within the skin is extended by humic acid, another vital element in BIYUSEN™. This prolongs the skin’s moisture retention, thereby maintaining high hydration levels and reducing the formation of wrinkles. The enhanced longevity of hyaluronic acid helps keep the skin looking youthful and plump, contributing to a smoother and more radiant complexion. Additionally, peat extract, the source of humic acid, contains polyphenolic compounds like phenolic acids and flavonoids, which exhibit potent antioxidant properties by neutralizing free radicals and mitigating oxidative stress in skin cells.
Hymatomelanic acid plays a crucial role in smoothing and healing the skin texture. The healing of superficial micro-wounds is accelerated, and cell renewal is promoted, resulting in a healthier and more refined complexion. The bioactive compounds in peat extract, including polyphenolic compounds and trace minerals like zinc, copper, manganese, and selenium, enhance the activity of antioxidant enzymes in the body, aiding in the maintenance of cellular redox balance. These minerals also contribute to the anti-inflammatory properties of the peat extract by supporting the function of antioxidant enzymes and modulating inflammatory pathways in the skin.
The efficacy of BIYUSEN™ onsen water has been demonstrated in clinical trials. A 4-week study involving 35 subjects aged between 21 and 59 revealed remarkable outcomes: 100% of participants agreed that their skin felt softer, smoother, and more supple; 97% reported that their skin felt instantly hydrated and exhibited a healthy, radiant glow; and 94% noticed their skin looking firmer, lifted, and more elastic. These results highlight the powerful benefits of incorporating BIYUSEN™ into a daily skincare routine, confirming its role in revitalizing and transforming the skin.
REFERENCES
- Cacciapuoti, S., Luciano, M. A., Megna, M., Annunziata, M. C., Napolitano, M., Patruno, C., Scala, E., Colicchio, R., Pagliuca, C., Salvatore, P., & Fabbrocini, G. (2020). The Role of Thermal Water in Chronic Skin Diseases Management: A Review of the Literature.Journal of clinical medicine,9(9), 3047.
- Liang, J., Kang, D., Wang, Y., Yu, Y., Fan, J., & Takashi, E. (2015). Carbonate ion-enriched hot spring water promotes skin wound healing in nude rats. PloS one, 10(2), e0117106.
- Faga, A., Nicoletti, G., Gregotti, C., Finotti, V., Nitto, A., & Gioglio, L. (2012). Effects of thermal water on skin regeneration. International Journal of Molecular Medicine, 29, 732-740.
