Issue link: https://www.ascpskindeepdigital.com/i/884148
www.ascpskincare.com 67 FINDING A QUALITY DISTILLATE There are products that are sold as herbal distillates, but in fact they are not. Hydrosols are not diluted essential oils; make sure your herbal distillate is indeed the water obtained by distilling a plant and not just essential oil that has been dropped into water, or a synthetic version of a hydrosol. We do not know as much about herbal distillates as we do essential oils, but we know they contain water-soluble aromatic molecules, as well as a tiny amount of oil-soluble aromatics. Look for an herbal distillate that is made on the farm where the herb was grown. The method of distilling for the hydrosol is somewhat different than that of distilling for essential oils, and the distiller needs to be aware of the possibility of contamination by common bacteria and fungus found on a farm. Herbal distillates are typically distilled for a slightly longer time than essential oils are distilled, but not long enough to dilute the distillate or give it a grassy or fainter aroma. Distillates should have a characteristic aroma and taste of the plant from which it was distilled. Because they are prone to contamination by bacteria and fungus, hydrosols should be periodically tested. They can contain mild preservatives for use on the skin. Without a preservative, they should be stored in the refrigerator. Distillates are seasonal, meaning they are made during the summer when the plants are growing and harvested at their peak. Because of this it is often more favorable to preorder distillates to make sure your supplier can provide you with what you need for the coming year. Other Uses for Herbal Distillates Beyond skin care, enjoy hydrosols throughout your spa: • Spritz on the hair to help close the cuticle and decrease frizz. • Use to moisten a dry clay mask. • Incorporate a tablespoon or so of an herbal distillate into a glass of water to create a signature drink. • Use 2–3 tablespoons in your towel steamer to imbue the fragrance into the towels. • Use 2–3 tablespoons in the water reservoir of your facial steamer. • Spritz on after applying mineral makeup to help set the makeup. • Add a cup or more to a foot soak or hand soak. • Use as a linen spray. • Dip cosmetic pads into a distillate to use on the eyes.