My skin has been feeling so dry and uncomfortable this Winter, I keep reaching for my favorite hydrosol (it's Calendula right now, but last month it was Rose) to treat myself to refreshing spritzes.

A hydrosol is the pure water that remains after essential oils are steam distilled from the original plant material. Hydrosols have similar properties to essential oils but are much less concentrated.

Aromatic hydrosols are also called "Flower water" or "Distillate" and make great facial splashes, body cologne, deodorant, and air fresheners.

Hydrosols are usually a by-product of essential oil production, but I find the most beautiful come from artisan distillers who specialize in making only hydrosol (the hydrosols I use come from Mountain Rose Herbs because they are made this way).

But even without a still, you can make a simplified homemade version just by making some herbal tea. I tend to use Calendula, Rose, and Lavender alot, but there are lots of choices based on your skin type. Let the tea cool, then pour into a spritzer bottle. It will keep for a few days if you store it in the fridge.

To make your soothing water into a hydrating lotion like my Summerlands Facial Elixir, add up to 25% vegetable glycerin and a few drops of a skin-loving essential oil like lavender, chamomile or rose geranium.

Your skin will love you for it