If you’ve spent any time in the world of natural skincare, you’ve probably come across the word hydrosol. They sometimes go by other names — floral waters, botanical mists—but no matter what you call them, hydrosols are one of my favorite ways to bring plants into daily rituals.

What are hydrosols?

Hydrosols are the aromatic waters that remain after steam distilling plants for their essential oils. Think of them as the softer, gentler sibling to essential oils—holding the water-soluble compounds of the plant, plus just a whisper of its essential oil. Because of this, they’re safe to use directly on the skin, without diluting, and they carry the spirit of the plant in a very balanced, subtle way.

How to use them

Hydrosols are beautifully versatile. Here are some of my favorite ways to incorporate them:

• Facial toner: Mist onto clean skin before applying your serums or oils.
• Midday refresh: Keep one at your desk or in your bag for a quick, cooling spritz.
• After-sun care: Hydrosols like chamomile or lavender help calm and soothe skin.
• Hair and scalp mist: A light spray can refresh hair and balance the scalp.
• Linen or room spray: A few spritzes create an instant shift in mood and atmosphere.
• Blending base: They make a beautiful base for DIY skincare blends, masks, or compresses.

The benefits

Each hydrosol carries its own unique benefits, depending on the plant it comes from. Chamomile hydrosol is calming and soothing, rose is hydrating and uplifting, and pine is refreshing and grounding. Beyond their specific properties, hydrosols offer something I love: ease. They’re simple to use, safe for most skin types, and offer a gentle daily way to connect with plants.

Why I love them

To me, hydrosols are little bottles of ritual. There’s something grounding about starting and ending the day with a mist across the face, like a reset button. They remind me to slow down, to breathe, and to enjoy the small things.

At Remy & Rose, the hydrosols I share are chosen for their quality and character, each one meant to support both skin and spirit. Whether you’re new to hydrosols or already love them, they’re a beautiful way to add a bit of nature to your everyday.