What is a hydrosol?
Hydrosols, also known as floral waters, are aromatic waters produced during the steam distillation of plants or flowers. When the water is gently heated to start the extraction of the essential oil, condensed steam is created which is saturated with the water-soluble compounds of the plant being used. As the steam cools, the plant oils separate from the water leaving two very distinct products – essential oil and hydrosol. This steam is recycled several times in the next distillation to assure full saturation of the plant soluble compounds. After this, the steam is put through a filtration process called defrocking. This filters out any remaining plant materials. Then the steam is put through an ultraviolet light system to assure this precious water is naturally preserved. What is left is an extremely sophisticated product. And even better, nothing is wasted!
Multi-functional hydration
Hydrosols have a myriad of uses – you can use them as a skin toner, hair mist, pillow spray and room spray, to name just a few. Two of the best things about the hydrosol range we offer here at Absolute Essential is that they’re all alcohol free and very safe to ingest. They won’t dry your skin out or feel harsh when you apply them.
Here’s a list of the range we have on offer (and keep your eyes peeled for more varieties coming soon…)
Rose Water – A lot of people will be familiar with Rose Water which is used in many Middle Eastern and South East Asian dishes - think Turkish Delight, baclava or biryani. It’s available in chemists and grocery stores worldwide. Many of the commercially available brands are of dubious quality – they might actually be very diluted or synthetic, so make sure you do your research. Our pure, certified organic rose hydrosol can be used for cooking, baking and in drinks. Try adding a splash to an icy glass of lemonade for an extra refreshing twist.
It’s a fantastic face toner and is particularly good for dry, irritated or mature skin. It can be used as a makeup remover - simply soak a cotton pad in rose water and use it clean your face. It will leave your skin feeling hydrated, toned and clean.
The deliciously light fragrance is also sure to lift your spirits.
Add a tablespoon of rose water to a glass of water and sip it slowly to support stomach irritations and uplift your mood.
Lavender Water – Not only great as a make-up remover and face toner, but lavender hydrosol is also very good as an after-sun skin spray. It is cooling and soothing to sunburnt skin – extra effective if you store your bottle in the fridge.
It makes a fresh and clean smelling laundry spray – spritz your clothes with them while you’re ironing them to add a bit of luxury to an unpopular chore!
Neroli Water – Also known as orange blossom water, this hydrosol is great for young or oily skin. This citrusy and fresh floral water is a beautiful natural make-up remover and skin toner. A few sprays will add shine to dull hair.
Chamomile Water – Light and gentle, this hydrosol is calming and safe for the very young. Make your own wet wipes by spritzing chamomile water onto a tissue or muslin – these are great for face, hands and baby’s bottoms. A couple of sprays of this to your pillow before bed will support better sleep and stress reduction.
Here some other ways to use our range of floral :
Pregnancy
Our bodies are made up of around 60% water, and the demands of pregnancy mean more water is required to ensure good health.
The rose, lavender and chamomile waters are especially useful during pregnancy when staying hydrated is vital.
Rose, Lavender and Chamomile hydrosols are a safe and healthy way to stay hydrated and help combat the following conditions:
Heartburn and Indigestion: Add 1 tablespoon Chamomile Water to a large glass of water and sip slowly about half an hour before eating.
Heartburn and Hormonal flushes: Add 1 tablespoon Lavender Water to a large glass of water and sip slowly throughout the day as needed.
Mood elevation: Add 1 tablespoon Rose Water to a large glass of water and sip slowly throughout the day as needed.
Clay mask for sensitive and mature skin
1 tsp of Clay Powder: White Argyle and place it in a small ceramic bowl (not plastic)
1 tbsp of Rose Water
10 drops of Argan Oil: Raw
1 drop of Rose Damask: Pure essential oil (Rosa damascena)
Mix everything together to form a smooth paste. Apply to clean, dry face and leave for 10-15 minutes, then rinse with warm water
To complete the treatment, apply 10 drops of Untouched Intensive Serum or Rose & Frankincense Intensive Serum to the face, then rest.
Please note, it’s best not to apply any makeup or creams for several hours after a clay mask.
Tired, irritated eyes
Our calming and refreshing certified organic Eye Soothe is a blend of Rose, Lavender and Chamomile hydrosols. It has been formulated to support relief from allergies and revive tired eyes.
Hydrosols offer a gentle, versatile, and sustainable way to enjoy the benefits of nature. With their subtle yet effective properties, hydrosols are a wonderful addition to any skincare or wellness routine. Test the waters today!