Hydrosols for the face

A hydrosol, also known as floral water, is a product obtained when aromatic plants are distilled to extract their essential oils. During the steam distillation process, the plants' volatile compounds (essential oils) are separated from the water used as a carrier. This water, impregnated with the plants' water-soluble properties, becomes a hydrosol.

Unlike essential oils, which are highly concentrated in active ingredients and need to be diluted before use, hydrosols are much gentler and can be used directly on the skin without dilution. They contain a low concentration of essential oils, as well as water-soluble compounds and micronutrients from the original plant.

Hydrosols differ from traditional waters and toning lotions in their many benefits for the skin. Unlike water, which is devoid of active ingredients, hydrosols are distilled from plants and contain naturally beneficial aromatic compounds. They combine the lightness of water with the specific benefits of plants, without chemicals or preservatives.

Unlike traditional waters or skin lotions, hydrosols have many benefits. First of all, hydrosols are distilled from plants with beneficial properties for the skin. So each hydrosol has unique properties, depending on the plant that it comes from.

Hydrosols also respect the skin's natural pH, helping to maintain its balance without adversely affecting it. Tap water, in comparison, is often hard water and can dry out the skin.

And unlike lotions, hydrosols contain no alcohol or unnecessary products. Last but not least, one of the advantages of hydrosols is their versatility: they can be used for all kinds of needs.

Hydrosols have a number of benefits for the skin, making them a valuable asset for any skincare routine:

• Toning and refreshing effects: hydrosols are naturally invigorating and refreshing. They help revitalise the skin, leaving it soft and radiant.

• Soothing and calming properties: some hydrosols, such as chamomile or lavender, have soothing properties that can help reduce redness and skin irritation.

• Gentle hydration: hydrosols are gentle and moisturising, suitable for all skin types, even the most sensitive. They help to maintain the skin's moisture balance without damaging it.

• Purifying effects: certain hydrosols, such as tea tree or rosemary, have purifying properties that help to deeply cleanse the skin and prevent the appearance of pimples.

• Skin prep for other products: hydrosols can be used before applying other skincare products to prepare the skin for their optimum benefits.

• Versatile in use: they can be used as a facial tonic, a refreshing spray, an ingredient in masks or compresses, and even as a base for diluting essential oils in homemade cosmetic products.

To choose the right hydrosol, you first need to consider several factors. Firstly, it's important to select a hydrosol that's suited to your skin type. Each hydrosol has specific properties.

The quality of the hydrosol is also very important. It's preferable to choose pure, organic products, with no synthetic additives or preservatives, to guarantee that it is safe to use them.

What's more, the origin of the plants and the production method play a key role in the hydrosol's effectiveness. Those obtained by environmentally-friendly steam distillation are always the best.

Last but not least, it is better to select hydrosols packaged in opaque dark glass bottles, which protect them better from light and oxidation, which means they retain their properties better and for longer.

1. On the face: gently dab onto clean skin with a cotton pad. You can also spray the hydrosol directly onto your face, then leave to dry naturally or tap with your fingers for better absorption.

2. As a refreshing mist: spray the hydrosol on your face for a feeling of freshness and hydration.

3. As a toner: after cleansing, to soothe the skin and prepare it for moisturiser or cream.

4. In your shampoos: to solubilise your active ingredients, clay or other homemade formulas to boost their benefits and improve hair texture.

Although hydrosols are gentle and well tolerated by the skin, a few precautions should be taken to maximise their effectiveness and avoid any undesirable reactions:

• Tolerance test: before using a new hydrosol, it is advisable to carry out a skin tolerance test by applying a small amount to an inconspicuous area of the skin (such as the wrist or the crease of the elbow) and observing any reaction for 48 hours.

• Storage: store hydrosols in a cool place, away from direct sunlight and excessive heat, to preserve their freshness as well as all their properties.

• Use: use hydrosols within the recommended time after opening (generally a few months), as they are natural and may deteriorate over time.

• Application: for best results, spray the hydrosol directly onto the skin after cleansing or apply with a soft cotton pad. Avoid direct contact with the eyes.

• Origin and quality: make sure you choose quality hydrosols from reliable sources to avoid unwanted contaminants or additives.

To maximise their effects, it is important to keep hydrosols in a cool place to preserve their properties. Store them preferably in an opaque container in the refrigerator to protect their active ingredients from light and heat. A poorly stored hydrosol can lose its effectiveness. What's more, their water-rich composition makes them delicate products, susceptible to the spread of bacteria.