Does cornflower hydrosol pose any risks?

What are the dangers of cornflower hydrosol?

Cornflower hydrosol has been used since ancient times in skincare and haircare. This floral water is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as its decongestant action, making it highly regarded in cosmetics. However, before using it, it's worth considering its potential dangers. Let's explore this together in this article.

Published on October 31, 2024, updated on October 31, 2024, by Marie, Scientific Editor — 5 min of reading

Does the use of cornflower hydrosol pose any risks?

The cornflower, an annual herbaceous plant belonging to the Asteraceae family, originates from Europe. Its blue or purple flowers, from which it derives its name, appear in the spring. Often mistakenly considered a weed, the cornflower harbors numerous benefits for the skin and hair through the hydrosol that can be extracted from its dried flowers by steam distillation. Among its many possible uses, the cornflower hydrosol is commonly used for its soothing properties that help to relieve tired eyes. However, as with all cosmetic treatments, several questions arise regarding the potential dangers associated with its use.

Unlike essential oils, which are often criticized for the slight skin irritations they can cause, hydrosols are generally very well tolerated due to their water-rich composition. The cornflower hydrosol is no exception and proves to be particularly gentle and harmless for the skin. Indeed, no scientific study has shown any dangers or specific risks associated with the use of cornflower hydrosol. Furthermore, the scientific literature does not report any cases of intolerance following its application.

In general, cornflower hydrosol is well tolerated by all skin types, even the most sensitive ones.

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Are there any special usage precautions regarding cornflower hydrosol?

The cornflower hydrosol does not require any specific usage precautions. For instance, it can be applied around the eye area or on the entire face without any risk of irritation. As for the use of cornflower hydrosol in pregnant or breastfeeding women and young children, there are also no contraindications.

However, as with any cosmetic product or ingredient, it is recommended to perform a skin test before the first use. To do this, simply apply a small amount of cornflower hydrosol to the crook of your elbow, behind the ear, or on the inner side of your wrist. Make sure to spread the product well and allow it to properly penetrate the skin. After 24 to 48 hours, you can observe if the product has caused a skin reaction at the site of application. If the cornflower hydrosol has caused tingling or redness, this means it is not well tolerated by the skin and it is better to avoid using it. If no reaction is observed, this means that the skin tolerates it well.

Furthermore, in order to minimize potential risks, it is crucial to be vigilant about the preservation of cornflower hydrosol. Primarily composed of water, hydrosols are indeed quite susceptible to bacterial contamination, which can cause adverse effects on the skin. To prevent the growth of pathogens, it is recommended to store the cornflower hydrosol in a completely airtight container and keep it away from moisture, heat, and light. It's also worth noting that it's advisable to use the cornflower hydrosol within six months of opening. However, if it shows a change in color or smell earlier, it is better to stop using it and discard it.

Recommendation : Before each use, it is advised to always check the condition of the cornflower hydrosol by analyzing its organoleptic characteristics, such as its smell, color, appearance, and texture.