Guide to Flower Derivatives in Skincare
Flowers have long been revered for their therapeutic properties, and their derivatives—essential oils, extracts, and hydrosols—are widely used in skincare. Here's a HK flower shop guide to popular flower derivatives and their benefits:
1. Rose
Common Derivatives: Rose essential oil, rosewater, rosehip oil.
Benefits:
Hydration and soothing of sensitive skin.
Anti-inflammatory properties to reduce redness.
Rosehip oil is rich in vitamin C, promoting collagen production and reducing pigmentation.
Uses: Toners, serums, moisturizers.
2. Chamomile
Common Derivatives: Chamomile essential oil, hydrosol.
Benefits:
Calming irritated or inflamed skin.
Antioxidant properties that help fight free radicals.
Gentle enough for sensitive or baby skin.
Uses: Creams, soothing masks, baby products.
3. Lavender
Common Derivatives: Lavender essential oil, hydrosol.
Benefits:
Antibacterial and antifungal properties to combat acne.
Soothing properties for burns, cuts, and irritation.
Promotes relaxation and stress relief.
Uses: Face mists, acne treatments, bath oils.
4. Calendula (Marigold)
Common Derivatives: Calendula extract, oil.
Benefits:
Healing properties for wounds and dry skin.
Anti-inflammatory effects for eczema or dermatitis.
Hydration and soothing for dry, cracked skin.
Uses: Healing balms, moisturizers, lip balms.
5. Jasmine
Common Derivatives: Jasmine essential oil, extract.
Benefits:
Hydration and softening for dry or aging skin.
Antioxidant properties to fight skin damage.
Uplifting scent for mood enhancement.
Uses: Serums, body oils, perfumes.
6. Hibiscus
Common Derivatives: Hibiscus extract, oil.
Benefits:
Natural AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) exfoliant for smooth skin.
Boosts elasticity due to anthocyanins and antioxidants.
Hydration and moisture retention.
Uses: Exfoliating masks, anti-aging creams.
7. Ylang Ylang
Common Derivatives: Ylang ylang essential oil.
Benefits:
Balances sebum production for oily or combination skin.
Antimicrobial properties to prevent infections.
Soothing for stress-related skin issues.
Uses: Facial oils, toners, perfumes.
8. Lotus
Common Derivatives: Lotus extract, oil.
Benefits:
Hydration and anti-inflammatory effects.
Balances oily skin by controlling sebum production.
Antioxidant-rich to combat signs of aging.
Uses: Serums, moisturizers, face masks.
9. Blue Tansy
Common Derivatives: Blue tansy essential oil.
Benefits:
Anti-inflammatory and soothing for redness and irritation.
Calms acne and eczema.
Aids in repairing the skin barrier.
Uses: Facial oils, calming masks.
10. Geranium
Common Derivatives: Geranium essential oil, extract.
Benefits:
Balances oily and dry skin.
Improves circulation and promotes healing.
Antimicrobial properties for acne-prone skin.
Uses: Facial oils, toners, serums.
Choosing the Right Derivatives
Skin Type: Match the flower derivative to your specific skin type (e.g., chamomile for sensitive skin, rosehip oil for aging skin).
Dilution: Essential oils should always be diluted in a carrier oil before applying to the skin.
Patch Test: Always conduct a patch test to avoid allergic reactions.
Hong Kong florist tips
Flower derivatives offer natural solutions for various skin concerns, from hydration to anti-aging. With their versatility, they can be easily integrated into skincare routines, making them staples in many products across the industry.