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October 16, 2024
Essential oils, vegetable oils and hydrosols: what's the difference?
En este artículo
In the world of aromatherapy and natural cosmetics, you'll often come across terms such as essential oils, vegetable oils and hydrosols. Although all are natural products, they have different properties and uses. Here are the main differences.
1. Essential oils
These are concentrated extracts of plants, flowers, barks, leaves or roots, obtained mainly by steam distillation. They are very potent and should be used with care, always diluted in a vegetable oil.
They are used in aromatherapy and cosmetics. For example, lavender essential oil is known for its relaxing scent, and tea tree for its purifying properties in cosmetics.
2. Vegetable oils
These come from the fatty parts of plants, such as seeds or fruits, by cold pressing. They are not volatile and don't have an intense scent, but they are rich in fatty acids and vitamins, making them ideal for skin and hair care.
Examples include sweet almond oil, which is very moisturising, and jojoba oil, excellent for balancing oily skin. They are also used to dilute essential oils before applying them to the skin.
3. Hydrosols
Also called floral waters, they are obtained during the distillation of essential oils. They contain a small concentration of aromatic compounds, so they are gentler and can be used directly on the skin, as a toner or mist. Discover our hydrosols.
Which should you choose?
It depends on what you're after. Essential oils are perfect for aromatherapy and as a complement to your routine; vegetable oils, to nourish and moisturise; and hydrosols, for gentle, delicate daily care.
