What Does Chamomile Hydrosol Hide? The Complete Guide
A natural substance prized in cosmetics, chamomile hydrosol is often overlooked despite its many virtues. Here is everything you need to know about this product with soothing, brightening, and purifying properties for both skin and hair.
Chamomile: an ancient medicinal plant
Herbaceous plant of the family Asteraceae, Chamomile has been used for centuries for its medicinal and cosmetic properties. Among its most common species are:
- Roman chamomile (Roman chamomile): soothing and anti-inflammatory, it is preferred for skin care.
- German chamomile (German chamomile): richer in active compounds, such as sesquiterpenes, it is known for its soothing and anti-infectious effects.
- Wild chamomile : more neurotonic and invigorating.
It blooms from June to October. The flowers are harvested when ripe and then dried away from light and moisture to preserve their active ingredients as effectively as possible, for use in herbal teas to relieve digestive problems, among other things.
Production of chamomile hydrosol: a gentle distillation process
Hydrosol is obtained by steam distillation of fresh flowers. This process involves several steps:
- The flowers are placed in a still with water.
- The steam passes through the plants, extracting the volatile aromatic compounds.
- It is then condensed to produce two fractions: essential oil (on the surface) and hydrosol (below).
Hydrosol contains the same molecules as essential oil, but in much lower concentrations, making it suitable for everyone, including children and pregnant women.
A first-rate dermatological ally for the skin
Soothes sensitive and irritated skin
Thanks to its high flavonoid content and alpha-bisabolol, Chamomile hydrosol has powerful anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. It is particularly effective for:
- Redness and irritation
- Eczema flare-ups
- The sensation of burning after sun exposure
Action on dull skin
Used morning and evening, it helps to revive dull complexions and even out skin tone. It can be incorporated into skincare routines as a toner, before applying a serum or cream.
For combination to oily skin
Combined with powders such as green clay, chamomile hydrosol cleanses pores and regulates sebum production. It is also used in the formulation of purifying masks.
Benefits for hair: shine and softness
Chamomile hydrosol is known for its natural lightening effect on blonde or light brown hair. It revives golden highlights and leaves hair soft and shiny without damaging the hair fiber.
Storing hydrosol: essential precautions
As hydrosol is a fragile product without preservatives, certain rules must be followed to preserve its quality.
- Store it in an opaque, airtight container, away from light and heat.
- Ideally, store it in the refrigerator after opening.
- Shelf life: approximately 6 months, or less if a change in smell or texture is observed.
