Is cornflower water a skincare treatment for baby's skin?

The cornflower, also known under the name of Centaurea Cyanus, is a common flower of European fields belonging to the Asteraceae family. Obtained by hydrodistillation from dried cornflower blossoms, the cornflower hydrosol is a coveted ingredient in cosmetics for its multiple benefits on the skin. It is particularly used for its decongesting effect, bringing vitality to tired eyes.

Unlike essential oils, cornflower hydrosol has a gentle composition, making it suitable for sensitive skin, such as babies'. Moreover, its content of anthocyanins and flavonoids could notably exert anti-inflammatory properties. Indeed, the flavonoids it contains would be capable of modulating the activity of protein kinases, inhibiting transcription factors such as NF-kB, which are responsible for regulating inflammation. The cornflower hydrosol could thus help to alleviate irritations and redness common in babies, such as diaper rash. Applying cornflower hydrosol with a cotton pad or by spraying it on the affected area could quickly calm skin inflammation.

Cornflower hydrosol also reportedly has decongestant and refreshing properties, which could prove useful in the context of daily eye care for babies. After a difficult night or during a bout of conjunctivitis, for example, the cornflower hydrosol can be applied using a soaked compress to benefit from its calming effect and soothe swollen or irritated eyelids thanks to its anti-inflammatory virtues. It can also be used to gently clean around the eyes and alleviate mild ocular inflammations.

Furthermore, several sources attribute interesting antibacterial properties to cornflower hydrosol. Indeed, studies have revealed that an aqueous extract of cornflower may have helped to limit the growth of the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus, found on the surface of the skin. This antibacterial effect could be relevant for protecting baby's skin from minor infections and having an antiseptic effect, while leaving a sensation of freshness.

Finally, cornflower hydrosol demonstrates a very good tolerance across all skin types, including the most sensitive. It is perfectly suited to fragile and reactive skin, thus making it an appropriate care for babies and pregnant or breastfeeding women. Thanks to its gentleness, it represents an interesting natural alternative, ideal for accompanying dermatological care for common skin conditions in babies, such as eczema.

By gently soothing inflammations, cornflower hydrosol stands out as a natural remedy suitable for cases of increased skin sensitivity, which can be perfectly suitable as a skincare treatment for baby's skin.