Bienfaits de l'hydrolat de fleurs d'oranger sur la peau.

What are the benefits of orange blossom hydrosol for the skin?

The orange blossom grows on the Bitter Orange tree. Its distinctive scent makes it a choice note in perfumery. The distillation of dried orange blossoms by steam entrainment yields a hydrosol with multiple cosmetic virtues, detailed in this article.

The orange blossom, in brief.

The orange blossom grows on the Bitter Orange tree (or Bigaradier), a thorny shrub with evergreen leaves belonging to the Rutaceae family, whose origin remains unclear, between India or China. In the 11th century, the Crusades made it possible to introduce this tree around the Mediterranean basin. The orange blossom is also known as "neroli", in reference to the Princess of Neroli (an Italian town) who popularised its use in perfumery in the 16th century. This scent was indeed the favourite of King Louis XIV; it became a staple at court during his reign.

The process of obtaining orange blossom hydrosol.

The steam distillation of dried orange blossom flowers allows for the extraction of two distinct fractions: theessential oiland thehydrosol.

This method involves mixing and heating dried flowers with water in a still, then cooling the water vapour in a condenser to collect it in liquid form. The essential oil, less dense than the water used for extraction, then floats on the surface. This water is none other than the hydrosol.

Derived from the same plant, the two fractions have similar properties, but the hydrosol is less concentrated in active species because the aromatic essences are present in smaller quantities. Therefore, it can be used without contraindications by children and pregnant women, unlike the essential oil.

The benefits of orange blossom hydrosol for the skin.

When applied topically, orange blossom hydrosol helps to maintain healthy skin due to the following virtues:

  • Rich in flavonoids, orange blossom hydrosol is antioxidant. It effectively combats the proliferation of free radicals. As a reminder, these species are derived from oxygen and are extremely reactive and unstable. They are generated by all sorts of factors such as overexposure to the sun, smoking, stress, pollution... They degrade the cells and healthy proteins of the skin, accelerating its ageing. Therefore, orange blossom hydrosol is regenerating ; it is recommended for all skin types to prevent the appearance of signs of ageing.

  • The hydrosol of orange blossom is brightening. It brings radiance to the complexion; it is particularly recommended for tired, devitalised skin lacking in glow.

  • Orange blossom hydrosol rebalances the skin's pH. Healthy skin has a slightly acidic pH, around 5.5. Water has a neutral pH of 7, while the pH of orange blossom hydrosol is acidic, ranging from 4.5 to 6.5. Therefore, after skin cleansing usually done with water, the application of orange blossom hydrosol slightly acidifies the skin's pH so that it returns to its original value.

  • Gentle tonic, the orange blossom hydrosol soothes and refreshes the skin as well. Furthermore, the orange blossom hydrosol is renowned for itsfloral and fresh fragrance, which imparts a pleasant scent to cosmetic formulas.

How to use orange blossom hydrolat?

Thanks to its soothing and calming properties, theorange blossom hydrosol provides relief for irritated skin. It can thus be used as an after-sun treatment. In a beauty routine, it is applied morning and evening to the face to bring radiance to dull and tired complexions. Apply it to clean, dry skin using a cotton pad or directly with your fingers before the serum or face cream. This product does not contain any preservatives. After use, immediately close the bottle and store it away from heat and light (for example in the refrigerator). The product should be used within 6 months of opening. If you notice a change in appearance or smell, discontinue use of your hydrosol.

You can also enjoy the benefits of this hydrosol with our moisturising gel Aloe vera & organic orange blossom for face and body. Itsoothes the skin and deeply hydrates. We advise you to apply a small amount on clean, dry skin and massage until fully absorbed. Its melting and light texture penetrates quickly and leaves the skin soft and comfortable, without a sticky finish.

Sources

  • FARAMARZI M. A. & al. GC/MS Analysis of Citrus aurantium L. hydrolate and its comparison with the commercial samples. International Journal of Production Research (2004).

  • HEO M. T. & al. Biological screening of 100 plant extracts for cosmetic use (II): anti-oxidative activity and free radical scavenging activity. International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2008).

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