The aim of this study was to evaluate the antiinflammatory effect of Avene spring water on skin fragments stimulated by a neuromediator, vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP). Skin fragments (from plastic surgery) were maintained for 6 h. 
To induce inflammation, VIP was applied on contact with the dermis by culture medium. Cellulose patches containing Avene spring water were applied over the epidermis at the same time. Histological analysis was then performed on hematoxylin and eosin stained slides. Edema was evaluated with semiquantitative scores. Vasodilation was studied by calculating the percentage of dilated vessels according to scores and by measuring the surface of these dilated vessels by morphometrical image analysis. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha dosage was made on culture supernatants. Edema was significantly increased after application of VIP compared with untreated skin. 
Treatment with cellulose patches containing Avene spring water showed decreased edema in comparison with cellulose patches containing distilled water. Vasodilation was significantly increased after application of VIP. After treatment with Avene spring water, the percentage and the surface of dilated vessels were significantly decreased. 
Moreover, treatment with cellulose patches containing Avene spring water showed a decrease in TNF-alpha compared with skins treated with VIP.