Description

Prunus Mume Flower Water is a hydrosol obtained from the steam distillation of the flowers of the Prunus mume tree, commonly known as the Japanese apricot or ume tree. It is used in cosmetic and personal care products for its potential soothing, toning, and hydrating properties.

Chemical Composition and Structure:

Key Components: The flower water contains a variety of water-soluble phytochemicals, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and essential oils. Specific compounds might include catechins, quercetin, and various aromatic compounds.
Structure: The water is a clear or slightly cloudy liquid with a delicate floral scent, retaining the volatile compounds from the flowers of Prunus mume.

Physical Properties:

Appearance: Typically a clear or slightly cloudy liquid with a light, floral fragrance.
Solubility: Fully soluble in water, making it easy to incorporate into aqueous formulations and products.

Production Process:

Harvesting: Flowers of the Prunus mume tree are collected during their peak bloom period.
Distillation: The harvested flowers are subjected to steam distillation to extract essential oils and other volatile compounds. The result is a hydrosol, which is the water fraction that contains the soluble plant components.
Filtration: The distillate is filtered to remove any particulate matter, ensuring a clear and stable product.
Packaging: The flower water is packaged in sterilized containers to maintain its freshness and efficacy.

Applications:

Cosmetics: Used in toners, facial mists, and moisturizers for its hydrating and soothing effects. It can help balance the skin and provide a refreshing sensation.
Personal Care: Incorporated into products aimed at calming irritated skin and improving overall skin texture. It may also be used as a base in various formulations due to its gentle nature.

Environmental and Safety Considerations:

Environmental Impact: The production of flower water should follow sustainable harvesting practices to avoid over-exploitation and ensure the protection of the Prunus mume habitats.
Safety: Generally regarded as safe for topical application. However, like all extracts, it should be used in accordance with established guidelines to avoid potential allergic reactions or skin irritations. People with allergies or very sensitive skin should be careful.

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.
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