Physico-chemical characterization and biological evaluation of Sublio hyperionized water
1) Nature and physico-chemical characterization of hyperionized water
The Sublio device, designed for hydrotherapy and balneotherapy applications, produces hyperionized water by continuous emission of a high-frequency electromagnetic field transmitted via inductive plates.
Unlike conventional processes that modify ionic composition by adding or removing elements, Sublio hyperionization does not alter the mineral composition of water. Chemical analyses confirm the quantitative integrity of the minerals and trace elements initially present.
The basic physico-chemical parameters remain stable overall after hyperionization:
- pH: 8.13 vs. 8.16
- Conductivity: 375 vs. 363 µS/cm
- Redox potential: -175 vs -178.5 mV
- TDS: 278 mg/L in both cases
These minimal deviations attest to the preservation of the overall ionic balance.
In contrast, a significant change in zeta potential was observed (-18.3 mV vs. -13.8 mV), reflecting a measurable evolution in the electrokinetic and interfacial properties of the hyperionized aqueous system. This change reflects a reorganization of colloidal interactions and intermolecular dynamics without altering the chemical composition.
Microbiological analyses also confirm the absence of any measurable sterilizing effect of the device, demonstrating that the process alters neither the initial microbiological load nor the mineral composition of the water.
Hyperionization is therefore a physical process that acts on the interfacial and colloidal organization of water, without modifying its composition.
The Sublio device hyperionizes water using a high-frequency electromagnetic field, without altering its mineral composition or essential parameters (pH, minerals, conductivity).
It acts solely on the physical and electromolecular organization of water, with no sterilizing effect or chemical transformation.
2) Biological effects on the skin
The physico-chemical changes measured directly influence the interaction of water with the skin interface.
Dissolved minerals remain present in ionic form, but their organization in solution displays modified colloidal dynamics, with the observation of nanometric aggregates under certain experimental conditions. The reduction in zeta potential reflects a change in interfacial electrostatic forces.
At epidermal level, exposure to hyperionized water transiently modifies the superficial ionic environment of the stratum corneum. This modification is part of the skin’s physiological regulatory mechanisms.
In vitro and ex vivo studies show :
- modulation of expression of key keratinocyte differentiation proteins, notably involucrin and filaggrin;
- activation of biological pathways involved in the antioxidant and inflammatory response;
- reinforcement of the mechanisms involved in maintaining the barrier function.
Since filaggrin is the source of natural moisturizing factors (NMF), these biological modulations play a direct role in improving stratum corneum hydration.
Preclinical models thus demonstrate an adaptive epidermal response compatible with functional reinforcement of the skin barrier.
Hyperionized water temporarily modifies the ionic environment on the skin's surface, positively influencing its natural regulatory mechanisms. Studies show that hyperionic water stimulates key proteins involved in skin hydration and protection, helping to strengthen the skin's barrier.
3) Transcutaneous penetration of trace elements
The impact of hyperionization on the percutaneous penetration of minerals was assessed using the standardized Franz cell method (OECD 428), under static conditions at 34°C for 4 hours.
Comparative analysis between hyperionized and non-hyperionized seawater confirms no change in total trace element concentration.
In the ex vivo model selected, a significant increase in the quantity measured in skin tissue was observed for :
- iron: +21
- zinc: +19
- sulfur: +46
These results show a clear increase in the presence of trace elements detected in skin tissue under strictly controlled experimental conditions, obtained from a volume limited to 2 ml of static non-renewed seawater, i.e. just 0.002 L.
The minerals concerned play a proven role in skin homeostasis, epidermal differentiation and cellular defense mechanisms. The data establish the convincing effect of hyperionization on their tissue bioavailability in the model studied.
Laboratory tests show that hyperionization does not alter the quantity of minerals in water, but increases their measurable presence in skin tissue (notably iron, zinc and sulfur).
In this way, these elements essential to the skin's balance and defense become much more bioavailable.
4) Clinical data
A comparative clinical study evaluated tap water before and after hyperionization with the Sublio device.
Repeated application of hyperionized water is associated with :
- a measured reduction in insensible water loss (IWL), reflecting an improved barrier function;
- an increase in corneometry values, indicating improved surface hydration;
- a reduction in colorimetric parameters associated with skin redness.
These clinical results confirm an instrumental and measurable improvement in skin parameters linked to hydration, barrier function and skin balance.
These clinical results confirm an instrumental and measurable improvement in skin parameters linked to hydration, barrier function and skin balance.
Conclusion
The hyperionized water produced by the Sublio device has :
- a measurable change in its interfacial properties (zeta potential, electrokinetic parameters);
- complete stability of its mineral and microbiological composition;
- instrumental improvement in skin parameters related to hydration and barrier function;
- a measured increase in the quantity of trace elements detected in skin tissue under ex vivo conditions;
- modulation of biological markers involved in epidermal defense and adaptation mechanisms.
Classified as a Class I medical device, Sublio works by a mainly physical mechanism, based on the natural modification of the physico-chemical properties of water and the optimization of its interaction with the skin interface.
All the available data demonstrate the major interest of the Sublio device in hydrotherapy and skin care applications aimed at maintaining and improving the physiological functions of the skin, in compliance with the regulatory framework applicable to medical devices.
Sublio's hyperionized water retains its natural mineral composition while modifying its physical properties, improving hydration, barrier function and trace element bioavailability at skin level.
Classified as a Class I medical device, Sublio works by a physical mechanism that optimizes the natural interaction of water with the skin, demonstrating its major interest in hydrotherapy and skin care.