Orange Hydrosol is the gently scented water that remains after orange peel is steam- or hydro-distilled, and it works beautifully as a natural facial toner, a light body or room spray, and a base for homemade creams and lotions. Think of it as plain water carrying the soft, sweet-tangy character of oranges, which makes it easy to blend into everyday DIY beauty and home projects.
What exactly is Orange Hydrosol?
When orange peel is distilled to draw out the essential oil, the water collected alongside it is not discarded. It holds tiny amounts of the plant's water-soluble aromatic compounds, giving it a mild citrus fragrance without the intensity of undiluted essential oil. Azlok's Orange Hydrosol is made in India from orange peel by hydro-distillation.
- INCI name: Citrus Aurantium
- Raw material source: Orange peel
- Aroma: sweet, citrusy, tangy
- Colour: pale yellow
- Solubility: water soluble
- Country of origin: India
Common uses
Because it is mild and water-based, orange hydrosol slots into many recipes and daily routines:
- Facial toner: spritz or wipe on after cleansing for a light, refreshing finish.
- Body and linen spray: a quick citrusy mist for skin, clothes or bedsheets.
- Room spray: freshen up a room with a natural, uplifting scent.
- Creams and lotions: use it as the water phase in homemade emulsions.
- Face masks and packs: mix with clays or powders instead of plain water.
How to use it
The simplest way is to pour it into a clean spray bottle and use it neat as a toner or mist. Keep your eyes closed while spraying the face. For formulations, replace some or all of the water in your recipe with the hydrosol so the aroma carries through.
- As a toner: after washing, mist over the face and neck or dab with a cotton pad. Let it dry, then follow with your moisturiser.
- In a clay mask: stir a spoon of clay with enough hydrosol to make a smooth paste, apply, and rinse once it feels dry.
- In a lotion: use it as the water portion when making a cream, adding your oils and emulsifier as usual.
Tips and safety notes
Orange hydrosol is gentle, but a little care goes a long way, especially with citrus.
- Patch test first: apply a small amount to your inner arm and wait 24 hours before using on the face, particularly if your skin is sensitive.
- Avoid the eyes: it can sting, so spray with eyes shut and rinse if any gets in.
- External use only: this is a cosmetic-grade floral water, not a drink or food flavouring.
- Keep away from children and store the dropper cap safely.
- Citrus and sun: citrus ingredients can be sensitising; if you notice any irritation, stop using it.
Buying and storage
Azlok offers Orange Hydrosol from a handy 100 Gm pack (which comes with a 3 ml dropper) right up to bulk 500 Gm, 1 KG, 5 KG, 10 KG and 20 KG sizes, so hobbyists and small businesses can both find a fit. The 100 Gm pack is priced at around 119. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Sealed and stored well, it keeps for about two years. Since hydrosols are water-based and free of preservatives, use clean bottles and hands, and if you dilute or decant, keep smaller working batches to reduce the chance of contamination.
FAQ
Is orange hydrosol the same as orange essential oil?
No. The essential oil is the concentrated aromatic oil from the peel, while the hydrosol is the water left after distillation. The hydrosol is far milder, water soluble, and can usually be used with little or no further dilution.
Can I drink orange hydrosol or use it in food?
Treat this product as a cosmetic ingredient for external use only. Do not ingest it or use it as a food or beverage flavouring.
Does it need to be refrigerated?
A cool, dry cupboard away from sunlight is fine. Some makers prefer to refrigerate opened bottles for a cooler feel and to help freshness, but it is not essential if stored properly.
Will it make my skin smell strongly of oranges?
The scent is light and sweet rather than sharp, and it fades as the water dries. That subtlety is why many people like it as an everyday toner or mist.
Can I mix it with other hydrosols or ingredients?
Yes. It blends well with other floral waters, clays, and the water phase of creams and lotions. When adding essential oils to a hydrosol, use a suitable solubiliser so the oil disperses evenly.