BICARBONATE

Bicarbonate ion: Main Effects & Top 5

Published May 5, 2026·1min read

Bicarbonate ion (HCO₃⁻) — the same ingredient as baking soda — gently removes old skin cells and sebum for silky-smooth skin. Known as the "beauty spring" (美人の湯).

Table of Contents

What is Bicarbonate ion?
Main Effects
Bicarbonate ion Top 5 Hot Springs

What is Bicarbonate ion?

Bicarbonate ion (HCO₃⁻) — the same ingredient as baking soda — gently removes old skin cells and sebum for silky-smooth skin. Known as the "beauty spring" (美人の湯).

Main Effects

Removes dead skin cells and sebumThe weak alkalinity of bicarbonate ions, the same component as baking soda, helps soften keratin in the skin's outer layer. This process also emulsifies oils and sebum, washing them away much like soap does.
Skin beauty effect (美人の湯)By clearing away old, dead skin cells, this type of spring water encourages newer, fresher skin to emerge on the surface. This exfoliating effect is why these springs are often called "Bijin-no-Yu" or "Baths of Beauty," leaving your skin feeling exceptionally smooth.
Indicated for digestive conditions when drinkingWhen consumed, the bicarbonate ions can help neutralize excess stomach acid. This action may help alleviate the symptoms associated with conditions like gastroduodenal ulcers and reflux esophagitis.

Bicarbonate ion Top 5 Hot Springs

Top 5 hot springs registered on this site with the highest content.

RANKING BY THIS MINERAL CONTENT

References

SPRING TYPEMay 5, 2026· 2min read

Bicarbonate Springs: "Beauty Waters" for Smooth, Glowing Skin

Bicarbonate springs (HCO₃⁻ as the main anion) are known as "the beauty waters" because bicarbonate gently removes dead skin cells and sebum, leaving skin silky smooth. Indicated for bathing (cuts, cold sensitivity, dry skin) and drinking (gastroduodenal ulcers, diabetes, gout).

MINERALMay 5, 2026· 2min read

Metasilicic Acid: The "Beauty Spring" Standard Mineral & Top 5 Onsen

Metasilicic acid (H₂SiO₃) is a natural moisturizer also found in skincare lotions. Hot springs containing more than 50mg/kg are called "beauty springs" — leaving skin hydrated long after bathing. This is one of the therapeutic spring criteria in Japan's Mineral Spring Analysis Guideline (Table 1-1).

MINERALMay 5, 2026· 1min read

Sodium ion: Main Effects & Top 5

Sodium ion (Na⁺) is the key component of chloride and bicarbonate springs. It forms a thin salt film on the skin, locking in warmth long after bathing.