Hydrosols: The Secret Weapon of the Natural Skincare World
Hydrosols: The Secret Weapon of the Natural Skincare World
If you’re into natural skincare, you’ve probably heard of essential oils, but have you ever heard of hydrosols? Hydrosols are a lesser-known product in the world of natural skincare, but they’re just as beneficial and versatile as essential oils. In this post, I’ll explore what hydrosols are, how they’re made, and what you can use them for.
So, what are hydrosols?
Hydrosols, also known as floral waters, are the byproduct of the steam distillation process used to extract essential oils from plant materials. During the distillation process, the plant material is heated with water, and the steam that’s produced is collected and cooled. The essential oil rises to the top, and the remaining water is the hydrosol.
How are they made?
Hydrosols are made through the same process as essential oils. The plant material is placed in a still and heated with water. The steam that’s produced carries the essential oil molecules and other aromatic compounds with it. As the steam cools, it condenses back into a liquid, and the essential oil and water are separated. The water that’s left behind is the hydrosol.
What can they be used for?
Hydrosols have a wide range of uses, and they’re much gentler than essential oils, making them perfect for those with sensitive skin like young children or the elderly. Here are some of the ways you can use hydrosols in your skincare routine:
- Facial Toner: Hydrosols make excellent facial toners. They’re gentle and hydrating, and they help to balance the skin’s pH.
- Body Spray: Hydrosols can be used as a refreshing body spray. They help to cool and soothe the skin on a hot day.
- Hair Mist: Hydrosols can also be used as a hair mist. They help to hydrate the hair and scalp and can be used to refresh hair between washes.
- Aromatherapy: Hydrosols are a great alternative to essential oils for aromatherapy. They’re gentler and can be used directly on the skin.
- Cleaning: Hydrosols can be used as a natural cleaning solution. They have antibacterial properties and can be used to clean surfaces around the home.
- Aromatic Baths: since hydrosols are much gentler on your skin you can easily add them to a bath to get the aromatic benefits.
- DIY’s: just like essential oils, hydrosols can be added to homemade products like creams, gels, lotions, salves, balms, bath salts, scrubs, cleansers, toners etc.
Dilution Rates & Uses
- cleansers, gels, etc: add 1 tsp at a time until desired consistency is achieved
- toner: combine 1+ hydrosols together, you can also add honey or aloe vera
- creams, lotions: add hydrosol in place of water
- bath: babies-6 months old 1-2 teaspoons, children up to 12 years old add 1 tsp hydrosol per year of age (max 8 tsp), adults can use 1-8oz per tub.
- foot bath: 2-3 tbsp
- compress: adults 3-5 tbsp per liter of water, children 2-3 tsp
- internal use: 1-2 tbsp in glass of water (eg german chamomile is great before bedtime ages 3+)
Hydrosols Talked About in Video
- astringent, great for acne
- good for oily skin, acne-prone skin, mature skin, and normal-dry skin
- calming, soothing
- nurturing, emotional support
- PMS symptoms
- smells great so would make a great linen spray
- anti-inflammatory & cooling so it’s great for skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, rashes, etc
- great for dry, mature skin
- muscle relaxation
- healing
Roman Chamomile Hydrosol $13.99
- calming and soothing
- anti-inflammatory (great for skin irritations)
- beneficial for reducing anxiety, anger, and childhood hyperactivity
Shop Plant Therapy Essential Oils
In conclusion, hydrosols are a versatile and gentle product that can be used in a variety of ways. They’re perfect for those with sensitive skin or anyone looking for a more natural approach to their skincare routine. So, next time you’re looking to add something new to your skincare arsenal, consider giving hydrosols a try!
Thanks for reading!
x, T
