As beauty staples go, water is nothing new. But the latest beauty buzzword sees its hydrating benefits supercharged alongside the therapeutic properties of aromatherapy. Enter hydrolats – or hydrosols (water + solution), as they’re referred to outside of Europe. Created during the process of essential oil extraction, hydrolats are the waters that remain after steam-distilling botanicals like rose, lavender and neroli. Gentler than essential oils, they can often be used direct on the skin without further dilution, and are popping up in natural skincare. They work well in toners, as they help rebalance skin pH, which can be disrupted during cleansing. Rose water is perhaps the most versatile, with regenerative and antiseptic properties. Find it in Andalou Naturals 1000 Roses Floral Toner (£12.99, 178ml, hollandandbarrett.com).
Words Hattie Parish. Photograph Plainpicture