Hydrosol is the aromatic water obtained after steam distillation of plant materials. There are a multitude of hydrosols with varied properties (regenerative, purifying, toning...). Which hydrosol should you use to take care of your skin? Discover our advice for choosing your hydrosol based on your skin type.
Library
All Topics
Which hydrolat should be used depending on your skin type?
Summary
- What is a hydrosol?
- Which hydrolat for oily skin?
- Which hydrolats for dry skin?
- Which hydrolat for sensitive skin?
Published October 1, 2021,
updated on August 16, 2024,
by
Stéphanie, PhD, Doctorate in Life and Health Sciences
—
3 min read
What is a hydrosol?
Hydrosol is obtained following the steam distillation of plants. The acidic pH of the hydrosol helps to rebalance the skin's pH after cleansing. Indeed, the use of alkalising cleansers can disrupt the skin's pH. The hydrosol contains the properties of the plants used in its production. However, the concentration of active ingredients is less than that of essential oils, thus hydrosols can be used by children and pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Which hydrolat for oily skin?
Oily skin is characterised by hyperseborrhea, that is, an excessive secretion of sebum. The skin then appears shiny and the pores are enlarged. Moreover, the overproduction of sebum promotes the appearance of comedones and pimples. Indeed, the excess sebum clogs the pores, leading to their formation. The cleansing step is therefore essential for taking care of this type of skin. Indeed, it allows the removal of excess sebum and purifies the skin. It is also necessary to use a treatment aimed at regulating sebum production to address the problem at its source, such as thewitch hazel hydrosol. This latter has astringent, purifying and toning properties. It tightens the pores, helps regulate sebum production and removes impurities on the skin's surface. Thanks to its soothing virtues, witch hazel hydrosol relieves irritations while firming the skin.
Which hydrolats for dry skin?
Dry skin is prone to tightness, flaking, redness, and a dull complexion. Indeed, it lacks both water and lipids, making it sensitive to external aggressions. Therefore, dry skin needs to be hydrated and nourished to strengthen the hydrolipidic film. The care used must meet the skin's needs. Theorange blossom hydrosol is suitable for dry skin due to its antioxidant and regenerative properties. It helps to tone the skin, restore its radiance while protecting it from free radicals.
Which hydrolat for sensitive skin?
Sensitive skin suffers from itching, redness, tightness, or feelings of discomfort. It reacts excessively to stimuli such as the sun, pollution, cold, or heat. Dry, oily, or normal skin can be sensitive. Gentle care must be used on sensitive skin to avoid further aggravation. Thanks to its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, thechamomile hydrosol is suitable for sensitive skin. It alleviates discomfort and reduces redness, while making the skin supple and soft.
Diagnostic
Understand your skin
and its complex needs.
