Exploring the Benefits of Hydrosols

Not to be confused with flower waters, hydrosols are produced through the steam distillation of essential oils and are gaining recognition for their gentle effectiveness and versatile applications. They capture the essence of plants in a more subtle form, making them a valuable addition to skincare regimes so let’s delve a bit further into what a hydrosol is and some of their uses!

What Are Hydrosols?

Hydrosols are essentially the aromatic waters that remain after essential oils are extracted through steam distillation. They contain trace amounts of essential oil, along with many water-soluble components of the plant. This results in a milder, water-based product that retains the plant's therapeutic properties and delicate fragrance

How are Hydrosols Made

Hydrosols are made through the process of steam distillation, which is similar to how essential oils are extracted from plants. Here’s a step by step overview of how hydrosols are produced:

Plant Selection: High-quality plants or flowers are selected for their aromatic and therapeutic properties. The plant material used can vary widely—from lavender and peppermint to tea tree and sandalwood.
Distillation Chamber: The plant material is placed in a distillation chamber, which is typically a large container where steam is introduced from below.
Steam Application: Steam is applied to the plant material. The heat from the steam causes the plant's cellular structure to open up, releasing its aromatic molecules and other beneficial compounds.
Vaporisation: As the steam circulates through the plant material, it carries these volatile compounds upward into a condensation column.
Condensation: The steam, now carrying the plant's essential oil molecules, enters a condensation column where it cools down. This cooling causes the steam to condense back into liquid form.
Separation: As the condensation occurs, two distinct layers form: essential oil and water. The essential oil, being lighter than water, floats on top and is collected separately. The water that remains is the hydrosol.
Hydrosol Collection: The hydrosol, which now contains water soluble aromatic molecules, as well as small amounts of essential oil and other water soluble plant components, is collected separately from the essential oil.
Final Product: The collected hydrosol is then filtered to remove any remaining particles or impurities and is typically stored in sterilised containers to maintain its freshness and purity.

Ways to use Hydrosols

Gentle Skincare: Hydrosols are known for their gentle nature, making them suitable for almost all skin types, including sensitive and mature skin. They can be used as facial toners to hydrate, refresh, and balance the skin's pH.
Facial Toner: Apply directly to the skin after cleansing to hydrate and prepare for moisturiser.
Body Mist: Spray onto skin after a shower or throughout the day for a refreshing pick-me-up.
Hair Rinse: Add to a spray bottle and mist onto hair to condition and add shine.

At Ahimsa we stock Tea Tree, Sandalwood and Fragonia Hydrosols.

Tea Tree Hydrosol Benefits

Antibacterial and Antimicrobial Properties: Tea tree hydrosol is renowned for its natural antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, making it excellent for assisting with treatment of acne and skin infections.
Anti-inflammatory: It helps to calm inflammation and redness, making it suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin types.
Balancing and Cleansing: Acts as an astringent to help balance oily skin and reduce excess sebum production.
Refreshing and Purifying: Can be used as a facial toner to refresh and purify the skin, helping to maintain a clear complexion.

Sandalwood Hydrosol Benefits

Hydrating and Soothing: Sandalwood hydrosol is deeply hydrating and soothing, making it ideal for dry and sensitive skin.
Anti-inflammatory: Helps to reduce inflammation and irritation, making it suitable for soothing eczema and other skin conditions.
Aromatic and Calming: Its rich, woody aroma promotes relaxation and a sense of well-being.
Anti-aging: Supports skin elasticity and can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Fragonia Hydrosol Benefits

Balancing and Harmonising: Fragonia hydrosol has balancing properties that help stabilise both oily and dry skin types.
Antimicrobial: It has natural antimicrobial properties, making it beneficial for treating minor skin irritations and infections.
Emotional Support: Known for its emotionally uplifting and calming effects, helping to reduce stress and anxiety.
Cleansing and Refreshing: Acts as a gentle cleanser for the skin, leaving it feeling refreshed and revitalised.