Hydrolates

What are hydrolates? 

Hydrolates, also known under names such as hydrosols, flower water and herbal distillates, are by-products of essential oils made by distilling plants in spring water. Probably the most known hydrolate is rose water. The properties of hydrolates are very similar to those of their corresponding essential oils, yet they are less concentrated than essential oils, and therefor are more gentle and can be used on sensitive skin. In most hydrolates there is less than 5% actual oil. Hydrolates are water based and mildly acidic, with a pH similar to skins pH. Hydrolates can be used directly on skin without diluting. Different hydrolates have various properties including antiseptic, antioxidant, moisturizing and others. 

Some great ways to use hydrolates is to use them as a toner to refresh skin and balance it's pH. That way you can have an all natural toner with no chemicals added. I love to add rose water when making my own face cream (usually 1:1 with distilled water so that the scent is not too strong). Also as I have blond hair I add chamomile hydrolate to lighten my hair when I make my own shampoo. Hydrolates can also be used as subtle body perfumes or to rinse hair (and leave it smelling gorgeous). 

Below is a list of my favorite hydrolates:

Rose hydrolate 

Rosemary hydrolate

Chamomile hydrolate

Lavender hydrolate

Rose geranium hydrolate

Lemon verbena hydrolate

Peppermint hydrolate

Calendula hydrolate

Witch hazel hydrolate

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