Many organic skincare brands claim to be “eco-friendly,” but are they really? Essential oil production consumes vast amounts of water, raising concerns about sustainability. Hydrosol-based skincare offers a more environmentally friendly alternative. Read on to discover how we can make skincare more sustainable.
The Hidden Water Crisis Behind Essential Oils
Organic skincare brands often highlight essential oils in their formulations. However, the production of these oils is resource-intensive:
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Producing essential oils involves significant water usage, especially during the steam distillation process.[Source]
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Depending on the plant, the water-to-oil ratio can be substantial, meaning that for every liter of essential oil produced, a considerable amount of water is consumed. [Source]
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It takes 10,000 roses to produce just 5 ml of pure rose essential oil.
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For 1 liter of lavender essential oil, nearly 150 kg of lavender flowers are required.
These figures highlight a significant water usage issue that is often overlooked in the beauty industry.
Are We Prioritizing the Wrong Use of Water?
Imagine waking up to find you have only one liter of water for the entire day. Would you drink it to stay hydrated or use it to wash your face?
Our planet’s freshwater resources are limited, yet we’re consuming vast amounts to distill small quantities of essential oils for skincare. With climate change accelerating and water shortages affecting millions, it’s crucial to reconsider how we use our water resources.
According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), global freshwater demand is expected to exceed supply by 40% by 2030 if current consumption trends continue.
Hydrosols: The Smarter Alternative to Essential Oils
Fortunately, there’s a more sustainable option—hydrosols.
Hydrosols, also known as herbal distillates, are the water-based co-products of essential oil distillation. They contain water-soluble compounds from the plant and trace amounts of essential oils, offering similar benefits without the excessive resource consumption. [Source]
Why Hydrosols Make More Sense:
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Hydrating & Soothing – Hydrosols can be applied directly to the skin, providing gentle hydration. [Source]
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Less Irritation – Due to their mild nature, hydrosols are suitable for all skin types and are less likely to cause sensitivity. [Source]
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Eco-Friendly – They utilize the entire plant, ensuring that no part goes to waste. [Source]
So, if hydrosols provide hydration and nourishment, why are most brands still using essential oils in excess?
How Blush Bunny Organics is Leading the Change
At Blush Bunny Organics, we asked a simple question: Why use plain water in skincare when we can use nutrient-rich hydrosols instead?
Instead of following the industry trend of diluting formulas with regular water, we chose a different path. Our BBO Zing Collagen face wash is made with pure rose hydrosol, not just plain water.
Why This Matters:
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More skincare benefits – Hydration, antioxidants, and nourishment in every wash.
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Less water waste – Using what nature already provides instead of consuming more resources.
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A better alternative for the planet – Clean beauty should also mean responsible beauty.
By making this switch, we’re proving that luxury skincare doesn’t have to cost the earth—literally.
Will Other Brands Follow, or Are They Just Greenwashing?
Many beauty brands continue to push essential oils as the ultimate skincare solution. But at what cost?
Hydrosols offer a more sustainable way—but only a few companies are using them.
At Blush Bunny Organics, we believe in leading by example. If we can do it, others can too.
The question is: Will they choose profits over the planet?
What Can You Do?
As a consumer, you hold the power. Every time you purchase a skincare product, you make a choice:
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A product filled with plain water and wasteful essential oils
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Or a botanical-rich, hydrosol-based alternative that conserves resources
Your skincare should nourish your skin without harming the planet.
So next time you pick up a beauty product, read the label, ask the right questions, and choose better.
If this article opened your eyes, share it with someone who should know the truth about essential oils in skincare.
Sources:
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Sigma DAF Clarifiers. “Wastewater Treatment in the Production of Fragrances and Essential Oils.” https://sigmadafclarifiers.com/en/aguas-residuales-fragancias-aceites-esenciales/
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Healthline. “Hydrosol: Benefits, Uses, Precautions, DIY, and More.” https://www.healthline.com/health/hydrosol
