Hydrolates

Hydrosols are one of the most valuable and delicate products in natural cosmetics and aromatherapy. They are aromatic water distillates obtained by extracting essential oils through steam distillation. In the process, two components are separated – essential oil and distilled water, enriched with the water-soluble active ingredients of the plant. It is this aromatic water that is known as hydrosol or also floral water.

How are hydrolates obtained?

Hydrolates are produced through a careful steam distillation process, in which plant material (flowers, leaves, bark, roots) is treated with steam. After cooling, an aromatic aqueous phase is separated – floral water, which contains water-soluble phytochemicals and traces of essential oil.
Journal research Industrial Crops and Products (Elsevier, 2021) confirm that plant hydrolates retain a significant portion of the antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of the source plants thanks to these bioactive compounds.

Composition and action

The chemical composition of hydrolates depends on the plant used, but usually contains:

• water-soluble flavonoids, phenols and organic acids;

• minimal amounts of essential oils (under 0,05%), which give a light aroma and enhance the effect;

• naturally low pH, making them suitable for maintaining the skin's acid balance.

According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI, 2024) , the antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of hydrolates have been proven in laboratory studies on various plant species – lavender, rose, chamomile, etc. These properties support skin regeneration and reduce oxidative stress caused by external factors.

Benefits of using hydrolates

1. Soothing and hydrating the skin – floral waters soften and refresh without irritating, even for sensitive or irritated skin.

2. Antioxidant protection – hydrolates contain bioactive molecules that limit the action of free radicals and help maintain a healthy skin barrier function.

3. Suitable for daily use - unlike essential oils, they do not require dilution and can be applied directly.

4. Multifunctionality – used as a facial toner, hair spray, aromatic body mist, ingredient in creams and masks, or in homemade cosmetic formulas.

5. A natural alternative to synthetic tonics – floral water does not contain alcohol and is suitable even for skin prone to redness and irritation.

Floral water – tradition and science

Floral waters have been known for centuries – they were used in the preparation of cosmetic and medicinal mixtures as early as ancient Persia and Egypt. Today, scientific research confirms their effectiveness.
For example, a study of Healthline (2023) reports that lavender floral water has a proven soothing effect on the skin and can reduce inflammation, while rose water helps maintain elasticity and hydration. Similar results have been published in Journal of Applied Research on Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, which emphasizes the antibacterial effect of rosemary and chamomile hydrolate.

Difference between hydrolate and floral water

The terms “hydrosol” and “floral water” are often used interchangeably, but there is a significant difference in origin.
The real hydrolate is distilled floral water, obtained as a by-product of the steam distillation of essential oils. It contains the natural compounds of the plant and has therapeutic properties.
On the other hand, some products labeled as “floral water” may simply be water with added fragrance or a small amount of essential oil – without the true biochemical value of the distillate.
That is why when choosing, it is important to look for the words "100% hydrolate" or "floral water (distillate)".

Safety and storage

Pure hydrolates are sensitive to light and temperature. To preserve their properties, it is recommended to:

• storage in dark glass bottles;

• avoiding exposure to sunlight;

• Store in the refrigerator after opening.
  Research shows that when stored properly, natural floral water retains its stability for up to 12 months without the need for synthetic preservatives.

How to incorporate hydrolates into your daily routine?

• Like facial toner after cleansing and before applying serum or cream;
• Like refreshing spray during travel or after sun exposure;
• Like base for cosmetic products – creams, serums, masks;
• Like aromatherapy spray for the home or bedding – floral waters have a light and natural aroma that has a relaxing effect.
• Skin cleansing: moisten a cotton pad with the desired hydrolate and cleanse the skin in a circular motion;
• Skin Toner / Facial Spray: Spray onto cleansed skin before applying your face cream or serum. Do not spray in the eyes. Repeat several times a day for an extra fresh feeling;
• Face mask: Mix hydrosol with a little white or green clay to make a paste and apply to cleansed skin. Leave for 10-15 minutes, rinse with water, moisturize with hydrosol and apply a moisturizer, fluid or facial oil;
• Bathtub: Add some hydrosol to a pre-filled bathtub, step into the scented water and enjoy;
• Hair care: Spray onto washed hair and massage into scalp for extra shine and a beautiful scent. No need to rinse;
• Body Perfume / Deodorant: Spray on the skin from a distance of 15 cm, especially on the parts that you sweat the most;
• Room fragrance: spray in the air or on bedding, upholstery, laundry before ironing.

Scientific evidence for the effectiveness of floral waters

• A study by ScienceDirect (2021) found that plant hydrolates have significant antioxidant activity , measured by the DPPH test, confirming their potential to neutralize free radicals.

• NCBI (2022) reports that some hydrolates – for example, from rose, chamomile, and witch hazel – exhibit antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans , making them suitable for skin prone to irritation.

• Healthline (2023) emphasizes that floral waters contain natural antioxidants and organic acids that help maintain an even complexion and balanced skin moisture.

The category "Hydrolates" combines the ancient tradition of plant distillation with modern scientific knowledge of bioactive plant compounds. A true hydrolate is more than just aromatic water – it is a living plant extract with proven benefits for the skin and senses.
Regular use of floral waters In face and body care, it supports the natural balance of the skin, provides freshness and a delicate aroma, without the need for synthetic additives.

Choose a hydrosol that suits your needs – pink for nourishment, lavender for calming, or mint for refreshment – ​​and enjoy the power of nature gathered in every drop of floral water.

MAKASA.ORG offers a variety of hydrolates / floral waters obtained through steam distillation. With us you can find both the commonly available ones from Rose, Lavender, Chamomile and Lemon Balm, as well as Mint, Sage, Pine, Immortelle, Neroli and Witch Hazel.

Check out all the natural products at the MaKaSa natural cosmetics store!

You can also view all natural facial products on site in Burgas, 22 Aleko Bogoridi Blvd.

MaKaSa store Burgas