A NATURAL Lakeland spring water can reduce the appearance of wrinkles, say researchers.

The results of a ground-breaking study show that drinking Willow Water – which is sourced from a spring on Cartmel Fell and bottled at Flookburgh – is good for the skin, it is claimed.

In an eight-week study, a team of independent doctors found there was a 20 per cent reduction in the appearance of wrinkles in those who drank 1.5 litres of the water each day.

The study used a state-of-the-art Canfield VISIA camera and software analysis system to measure the improvements.

Willow Water contains minerals and nutrients such as calcium and salicin, which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties.

Its healing properties was discovered by Augustinian Monks in the 12th Century, according to Clwyd Price-Jones, Willow Water managing director.

He added: “We’re really pleased that these initial findings seem to back up our anecdotal evidence and we’re looking forward to spring, when we should have the next set of results.”

Dr Thornton MacCallum, of Cotswold Medical Aesthetic, principal clinical investigator on the study, said: “It’s clear from the VISIA data that regularly drinking water can promote more youthful looking skin and can improve the skin’s appearance, particularly in the case of wrinkles,” he said.

“The trial was double-blind and placebo-controlled and the state-of-the-art VISIA complexion analysis system provided very clear readings before and after the water consumption took place.

“The ability of the software to analyse people’s skin and, in the case of wrinkles, their length, depth and quantity was a key element of the trial. The results certainly merit further exploration.

“We’ve known for a long time that Willow Water can have an amazing effect on the skin, based on testimonials from thousands of regular drinkers who have noted positive changes to their complexions,” he said.