Description

Melissa Officinalis Flower/Leaf/Stem Water, commonly known as lemon balm hydrosol, is a fragrant water obtained through the steam distillation of the flowers, leaves, and stems of the Melissa officinalis plant, belonging to the Lamiaceae family. This hydrosol is highly valued in the cosmetic and personal care industry for its soothing, refreshing, and hydrating properties. Known for its calming and healing effects, Melissa officinalis hydrosol is increasingly recognized for its benefits in modern skincare formulations.

Chemical Composition and Structure
Melissa Officinalis Flower/Leaf/Stem Water contains a variety of bioactive compounds that contribute to its beneficial effects on the skin. The specific composition includes:

Hydrosoluble Essential Oils: Including citral, citronellal, and linalool, which provide antimicrobial and soothing properties.
Polyphenols: Such as rosmarinic acid, which offers strong antioxidant protection.
Flavonoids: Including quercetin and kaempferol, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
Tannins: Which possess astringent properties that help tighten and tone the skin.
Vitamins and Minerals: Essential nutrients that support overall skin health and vitality.
Physical Properties
Melissa Officinalis Flower/Leaf/Stem Water typically appears as a clear to slightly hazy liquid with a mild, pleasant lemon-like aroma. It is water-soluble, making it easy to incorporate into various cosmetic formulations.

Cosmetic and Personal Care Applications
Soothing: The hydrosol has strong soothing properties, making it beneficial for calming irritated or sensitive skin.

Hydration: It provides light hydration, helping to maintain the skin’s moisture balance.

Antioxidant Protection: The presence of polyphenols and flavonoids helps protect the skin from environmental stressors and free radical damage.

Antimicrobial: Melissa Officinalis Flower/Leaf/Stem Water has antimicrobial properties that help inhibit the growth of bacteria, fungi, and other pathogens, making it useful in formulations aimed at acne-prone skin.

Anti-Inflammatory: The hydrosol’s anti-inflammatory compounds help reduce redness and swelling, providing relief for conditions like eczema and rosacea.

Astringent: The tannins in the hydrosol help tighten and tone the skin, improving its texture and appearance.

Refreshing: Its pleasant aroma and light texture provide a refreshing and revitalizing effect, ideal for use in facial mists and toners.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

Melissa Officinalis Flower/Leaf/Stem Water is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic and personal care products. It is well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive skin. The production of this hydrosol is environmentally friendly, utilizing sustainable agricultural practices and minimal processing. However, as with all botanical ingredients, it should be patch-tested before use, especially for those with sensitive skin.

Cosmetics - INCI Functions


Skin conditioning agent. It is the mainstay of topical skin treatment as it has the function of 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 that can be added in the formulation.
Synonyms:

CAS: 84082-61-1 EC number 282-007-0