Description

Iris florentina root water is a hydrosol or floral water obtained from the distillation of the rhizomes of the Iris florentina L., commonly known as Orris, belonging to the Iridaceae family. This water is valued for its subtle aromatic properties and mild skin-soothing effects, making it useful in various cosmetic and skincare applications.

CHEMICAL COMPOSITION AND STRUCTURE

Chemically, Iris florentina root water contains:

Aromatic Compounds: derived from the essential oils in the Orris root, providing a delicate fragrance and mild astringent properties.
Hydrosol Components: water-soluble fractions of the essential oil that contribute to the skin-soothing and toning effects.
Trace Elements: naturally occurring in the rhizome, contributing to the overall benefits for the skin.

PHYSICAL PROPERTIES

Appearance: a clear to slightly cloudy liquid, depending on the distillation process.
Odor: a light, floral, and slightly earthy scent characteristic of Orris root.
Solubility: fully soluble in water, making it suitable for incorporation into various aqueous-based cosmetic formulations.
Density: similar to water, with slight variations depending on the concentration of dissolved compounds.

PRODUCTION PROCESS

Harvesting: the rhizomes of Iris florentina are harvested after several years of growth for optimal aromatic and active compound content.
Distillation: the rhizomes are steam distilled to extract both the essential oil and the hydrosol, resulting in the production of Iris root water.
Filtration and Purification: the hydrosol is filtered to remove impurities and ensure a clear, high-quality product.
Packaging and Storage: the root water is packaged in airtight containers, often dark glass bottles, and stored in a cool, dry place to maintain its freshness and potency.

APPLICATIONS

Cosmetics: used in skincare products for its gentle toning and aromatic properties.
Skin Care: included in facial toners, mists, and lotions to hydrate, tone, and soothe the skin.
Perfumes: used as a base or component in light, water-based fragrances for a subtle Orris scent.
Body Care: incorporated into body sprays and creams for its refreshing and fragrant effects.
Aromatherapy: used in sprays and room mists for its calming and subtle fragrance.

ENVIRONMENTAL AND SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS

Sustainability: Iris florentina root water can be produced sustainably, especially when the rhizomes are sourced from organic and responsibly managed farms.
Toxicity: the root water is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic and skincare products when used appropriately.
Allergenicity: as with all plant-based ingredients and chemicals, individual reactions of intolerance or allergy cannot be excluded.

INCI


Humectant. Hygroscopic compound used to minimise water loss in the skin and to prevent it from drying out by facilitating faster and greater absorption of water into the stratum corneum of the epidermis. The epidermis is the most superficial of the three layers that make up human skin (epidermis, dermis and hypodermis) and is the layer that maintains hydration in all three layers. In turn, the epidermis is composed of five layers: horny, the most superficial, granular, spinous, shiny, and basal. Humectants have the ability to retain the water they attract from the air in the stratum corneum and have the function of moisturising the skin. They are best used before emollients, which are oil-based.

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: 90045-89-9 EC number 289-954-9