Hydrosols are the aromatic, steam-distilled waters that are the result from the distillation of botanical materials. Hydrosols contain the plant’s highly effective compounds after the steam goes through the botanicals The Essential oils are siphoned off of the water and the water is what is left. They are also known as: distillate waters, hydrolats, or floral waters.

They contain water-soluble components and are used for a more gentle application for skincare such as toners, facial mists, or soothing agents. Hydrosols are safe for direct skin use and even on the skin of pets and babies. In ancient times, this water was released back onto the fields as a form of irrigation. Later on the waters were used in the bath and later, even used as a flavoring in French pastries. Today, they are sought after as gentle treatments for facial use.

How Hydrosols Are Made 
1. 1. Distillation:
Plant material (leaves, flowers, roots, etc.) is placed in a large distilling tank with water and heated to create steam which rises throughout the plant materials.

2. 2. Steam Collection:
The steam eventually drops carries water-soluble compounds and volatile aromatic elements from the plant.

3. 3. Condensation:
The steam then passes through a condenser, where it cools and turns back into a liquid.

4. 4. Separation:
The resulting liquid contains both the water and the plant compounds. The oil-based essential oil floats on top and is separated, while the remaining water is the hydrosol.

Benefits and Uses
• Skincare:
Hydrosols are great for all skin types, acting as natural toners, facial mists, and ingredients in beauty products, helping to hydrate, tone, and balance the skin’s pH.
• Aromatherapy:
They can be used for aromatherapy, promoting relaxation, supporting the respiratory system, or creating calming atmospheres when sprayed in a room.
• Household:
They can be used in homemade cleaning products and as room or linen sprays.
• Sensitive Skin:
Hydrosols are generally safe for topical use on sensitive skin, babies, and pets due to their milder concentration compared to essential oils.

Key Differences from Essential Oils
• Concentration:
Essential oils are highly concentrated and contain volatile compounds, while hydrosols contain a milder, water-soluble concentration of these compounds.
• Composition:
Hydrosols are primarily water, with a much smaller percentage of the plant’s essence compared to essential oils.
• Safety:
While both are beneficial, hydrosols are often preferred for direct skin application and for those with more delicate constitutions.