Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Water, also known as sage hydrosol, is a byproduct of the steam distillation of the leaves of the Salvia officinalis plant. It is used in cosmetics for its refreshing, purifying, and astringent properties. This hydrosol is particularly valued for its mildness on the skin, making it ideal for toners, facial mists, and products designed for sensitive or problematic skin. It is also commonly used to soothe the scalp and reduce excess oil.
Chemical Composition and Structure
Salvia Officinalis Water contains trace amounts of essential oils and water-soluble compounds found in sage leaves, such as rosmarinic acid, cineole, and flavonoids. These components provide the water with antioxidant, soothing, and mildly antibacterial properties, making it useful for calming irritated skin and improving its texture without being harsh.
Physical Properties
It is a clear liquid, water-soluble, with a light, fresh fragrance reminiscent of herbs and sage. Its lightweight, non-greasy texture makes it suitable for direct application as a mist or for incorporation into cosmetic formulations such as toners, refreshing sprays, cleansers, and lotions.
Production Process
Salvia Officinalis Water is obtained as a byproduct of the steam distillation of sage leaves. During the distillation process to extract essential oil, the condensed water captures traces of water-soluble compounds from the leaves. This distilled water is then separated from the essential oil and purified for use in cosmetic products.
Applications
Medical: While primarily used in cosmetics, sage water can also be used in some therapeutic applications to refresh and soothe irritated skin or calm mild inflammation due to its mildly antibacterial and soothing properties.
Cosmetics: Salvia Officinalis Water is widely used in cosmetic products such as toners, refreshing mists, and lotions. Its astringent and purifying properties make it ideal for oily or combination skin, while its gentleness makes it suitable for sensitive skin. It is often used as a light hydrating base to prepare the skin for further treatments or to calm the skin after sun exposure or shaving.
Hair Care: Sage water is also used in hair and scalp products. It helps tone the scalp, reduce excess oil, and prevent dandruff, keeping hair fresh and clean without weighing it down.
INCI Functions:
Skin conditioning agent. It is the mainstay of topical skin treatment by restoring, increasing or improving skin tolerance to external factors, including melanocyte tolerance. The most important function of the conditioning agent is to prevent skin dehydration, but the subject is rather complex and involves emollients and humectants.
CAS 8022-56-8 84082-79-1
EC number 282-025-9 282-025-9
Industry: In the cosmetic industry, sage water can be used as the aqueous phase in emulsions and water-based products, providing a light toning and purifying action. It is often favored in natural formulations for its low environmental impact and mildness.
Environmental and Safety Considerations
Salvia Officinalis Water is considered safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products. As a natural byproduct of sage distillation, it is biodegradable and poses no environmental risks. Its production is generally considered sustainable, as it is extracted during the essential oil distillation process, minimizing waste.
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