“The Thermal Water of Chaves is a heritage that distinguishes us and contributes to the economic and scientific growth of the municipality.”

The Chaves Thermal Spa organized a talk that addressed the role of the Flavian Thermal Water in promoting well-being and skincare. During the same session, two new dermocosmetic products were also presented, developed under the Therm4Skin project.

The Chaves Thermal Spa brought together experts in science, health, and nutrition to analyze the impact and benefits of Flavian Thermal Water on skin health and overall well-being. The meeting encouraged reflection on the role of research and innovation in enhancing endogenous resources, reinforcing the position of Chaves Thermal Spa as a space for knowledge sharing and scientific development.

The session opened with a musical performance by Lara Ferreira, from the Chaves Academy of Arts. Afterwards, Nuno Vaz, Mayor of Chaves, highlighted the importance of this resource:

“Thermal Water is a heritage that distinguishes us and contributes to the economic and scientific growth of the municipality.”
In his address, he emphasized the role of Thermal Water as a distinctive element of local identity and a driver of regional development. He also underlined the importance of strengthening scientific partnerships and continuing to invest in the enhancement of natural resources.

Brigite Gonçalves, administrator of Chaves Thermal Spa, moderated the discussion, stating that the Flavian Thermal Water “is not only a therapeutic resource, but also an element of balance, well-being, and self-esteem for those who use it.” She also noted that thermalism “is a living field that evolves with knowledge and with people,” highlighting its fundamental role in valuing natural resources for the creation of new products.

This path gains expression through projects such as Therm4Skin, led by GEMC – Gestão de Equipamentos do Município de Chaves and developed in partnership with the AquaValor Collaborative Laboratory and the Center for Biotechnology and Fine Chemistry of the Portuguese Catholic University. The project studies the bioactive properties of Flavian Thermal Water and its application in innovative dermocosmetic products capable of promoting skin regeneration, hydration, and protection.

Maria José Alves, researcher and Executive Director of the AquaValor Collaborative Laboratory, presented the study results developed under this project, which confirm the regenerative, antioxidant, and moisturizing properties of Flavian Thermal Water. According to the researcher, “the mineral composition of this water, rich in silica, magnesium, and calcium, helps balance the skin, strengthen the skin barrier, and improve hydration and protection, especially during sensitive phases such as peri- and menopause.”

Based on this scientific evidence, two new dermocosmetic products from Chaves Thermal Spa were presented: a Micellar Water and a Hair Spray, both formulated with 80% Flavian Thermal Water and with a naturalness index above 90%. Developed to meet the specific needs of skin and hair during hormonal changes, these products complement the existing range, reinforcing the commitment to the cosmetic and scientific valorization of this natural resource.