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What are the benefits of lilac water?

What is lilac water?

Lilac water is a fragrant, floral water that is made from the blossoms of lilac plants. It has been used for centuries in natural beauty and herbal medicine traditions. Lilac water is created by steam distilling fresh lilac blossoms and condensing the fragrant vapor into a liquid. This results in a wonderfully aromatic, gentle, and versatile botanical water.

Potential benefits of using lilac water

There are many potential benefits associated with using lilac water:

Skin soothing properties

Lilac water is renowned for its soothing properties. It can help calm irritated, sensitive skin. The natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds found in lilacs may help reduce redness, swelling, and inflammation when applied topically. Splashing the face with lilac water or using it as a toner can leave skin looking refreshed and rejuvenated.

Potential anti-aging effects

Some of the botanical compounds found in the lilac plant, such as terpenes, have demonstrated anti-aging activities in research studies. Terpenes can help promote new skin cell production and collagen synthesis. The antioxidants in lilac water also help protect the skin against free radical damage that accelerates signs of aging. Using lilac water regularly may help the skin look more youthful and resilient.

Hydrating properties

The watery nature of lilac water makes it gently hydrating. It can replenish moisture levels in dry, thirsty skin when misted on or applied with a cotton pad. This helps revive dull, tired-looking skin. The small molecular structure allows lilac water to penetrate easily into the outer layers of the skin where it works to improve hydration.

Potential acne-fighting effects

Some natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory compounds found in lilacs may be beneficial for acne-prone skin. Applying lilac water to the skin may help inhibit bacteria growth, soothe inflammation, and calm breakouts. Lilac water is gentle enough to use for sensitive skin that is prone to acne.

May help balance skin pH

Lilac water has a mildly astringent quality and a pH that is close to the natural pH of the skin. This helps remove excess oil while also maintaining the skin’s protective acid mantle. Using lilac water can support the skin’s natural pH balance for a clear, healthy-looking complexion.

Natural cleansing properties

The mildly astringent nature of lilac water makes it a gentle natural cleanser. It can remove impurities and buildup without over-drying the skin the way harsh cleansers might. Simply soak a cotton pad in lilac water and sweep it over the face and neck to cleanse without stripping the skin’s natural oils.

May promote a clearer, more even complexion

Regular use of lilac water may promote clearer, more even-toned skin over time. Lilac water contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce blemishes and redness. Its small molecules can penetrate into the skin to deliver these beneficial botanicals where they are needed most.

Light, pleasant natural scent

One of the most delightful benefits of lilac water is its scent. Lilac water captures the sweet, fresh, floral aroma of lilac blossoms. Its pretty scent is noticeable but soft enough for even sensitive noses. Most people find the nostalgic fragrance of lilac water very pleasant and uplifting.

How to use lilac water

There are many different ways to use lilac water to reap its beauty and aromatic benefits:

As a facial toner

– Pour a small amount onto a cotton pad and gently wipe over clean face and neck after cleansing.

– Or, decant into a spray bottle and spritz directly onto the face. Let dry.

As a makeup setting spray

– Mist over makeup to set it and give a dewy, fresh finish.

As a soothing skin mist

– Spray lilac water over the face and body throughout the day to refresh and calm skin. Especially nice after sun exposure.

As a floral bath soak

– Add a capful of lilac water to bath water for an indulgent floral soak.

As a natural perfume

– Dab on pulse points as a light botanical perfume.

As a floral hair rinse

– Rinse hair with lilac water after shampooing to leave a pleasant scent and shine.

In DIY beauty recipes

– Use as the hydrosol base for making face mists, toners, masks, creams, and other DIY skin care projects.

Potential side effects and precautions

When used topically at recommended amounts, lilac water is generally very gentle with minimal risk of side effects. However, here are some precautions to keep in mind:

– Discontinue use if signs of skin irritation or allergic reaction occur. Perform a patch test on the inner arm before wide-scale usage.

– Avoid getting lilac water directly in the eyes as it may cause stinging and irritation.

– Do not ingest lilac water. It is meant for topical use only.

– Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat to preserve the beneficial compounds.

– Shake well before each use to evenly distribute the aromatic molecules.

– Use within 6-12 months for maximum potency and freshness.

Conclusion

With its soothing, hydrating, and anti-aging properties, delightful floral scent, and versatility in use, lilac water is a wonderful way to nourish skin naturally. Harnessing the botanic benefits of the lilac plant, this aromatic hydrosol water is easy to incorporate into any skin care and beauty regime. Be sure to look for premium quality lilac water that is free of synthetic additives. A daily spritz of lilac water can do wonders for restoring a youthful glow and radiance to the complexion.

Nutritional Information of Lilac Water

Nutrient Amount
Calories 0
Total Fat 0 g
Sodium 0 mg
Total Carbohydrates 0 g
Protein 0 g

As shown in the table above, lilac water does not contain any significant macronutrients. It has zero calories, fat, carbs, protein, and sodium. Lilac water derives its benefits primarily from bioactive plant compounds rather than traditional nutritional sources.

Composition of Lilac Water

Compound Function
Linalool Anti-inflammatory, antibacterial
Geraniol Antioxidant, antimicrobial
Citronellol Anti-inflammatory
Terpineol Antioxidant
Nerol Antiseptic

Lilac water contains a range of beneficial plant-based compounds that contribute to its therapeutic properties. Key phytochemicals as outlined in the table provide antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects.

Amount of Lilac Extract in Lilac Water

There are no standardized guidelines for the concentration of lilac extract present in lilac water products. However, typical lilac water contains 0.1-0.5% lilac flower extract according to industry formulations. This provides sufficient lilac oil compounds to impart fragrance, aromatherapy benefits, and topical skin effects while remaining gentle for regular use.

Lilac Water vs. Lilac Essential Oil

Lilac Water Lilac Essential Oil
Origin Gentle steam distillation of lilac flowers Concentrated extraction of lilac flowers
Fragrance Strength Light, soft, pleasant Very concentrated, intense
Use Facial toner, body mist, hair rinse, bath soak Aromatherapy, candle/diffuser scent
Dilution Needed? None, ready to use as is Yes, dilute before topical use

While lilac water and essential oil both originate from the lilac plant and share similar therapeutic qualities, they have different production methods and usage recommendations. Lilac water has a much lighter, more subtle scent and can be applied directly to the skin. Lilac essential oil is highly concentrated and should always be diluted prior to topical application.

Summary of Lilac Water Benefits

  • Natural astringent toner for refreshing skin
  • Gentle floral aroma uplifts the mood
  • Anti-inflammatory compounds calm irritation
  • Antioxidants protect skin from environmental damage
  • Light moisturizing effect helps improve hydration
  • May help balance oily and acne-prone skin
  • Easy to use as a setting spray, bath soak, perfume, and more

In summary, lilac water is prized in natural skin care for its dermatological benefits and pleasant scent. It can be used in a variety of applications to help nourish, soothe, and revitalize the skin. With regular use, lilac water may help improve the overall appearance and feel of the complexion.