Hydrosols and the Scalp Microbiome: Understanding the Science to Restore Balance

Your scalp is home to a complex microbiome made up of bacteria and yeasts essential to its health. An imbalance leads to dandruff, itching, and oily hair.

Organic floral waters (natural plant waters) rebalance this microbiome thanks to their gentle antimicrobial properties and suitable pH. Unlike harsh chemical products, they respect the skin's natural balance while delivering visible benefits within 2 to 3 weeks.

 

 

Our natural products based on certified organic floral waters

 

Hydrolat Shampoo

Gentle cleaning · 98% natural

• Organic hydrosols, sulfate-free
• Plant-based keratin, cationic AH
• Shine and flexibility

35.00 € (80)

See the treatment

Hydrolat Scrub

Scalp detox · 98% natural

• Purifies and removes residue
• Organic hydrosols, fleur de sel
• Lightness and shine

€39.00 (33)

See the treatment

The Hydrolat Mask

Intense hydration · ceramides

• Plumps and smooths the cuticle
• Cationic hyaluronic acid
• Repairs and reduces frizz

€49.00 (82)

See the treatment

The Day Serum

Heat protection · shine

• Heat, UV, and pollution shield
• Anti-breakage ceramides
• Smooth finish without adding weight

€35.00 (25)

See the treatment

Night Serum with Hydrolats

Nighttime regeneration

• Soothing organic hydrosols
• Fortifying probiotics
• Flexibility and density

€35.00 (27)

See the treatment

 

The Benefits of Floral Waters: A Scientific Approach

Before diving into the science of the microbiome, discover the real benefits of organic floral waters for your scalp and hair.

Direct benefits of floral waters

1. Soothe itching and irritation

• Reduction of inflammation in 3-5 days
• Immediate relief thanks to flavonoids
• Ideal for reactive or sensitive scalps

2. Tone and tighten pores

• Natural astringent effect of tannins
• Tightens scalp pores
• Reduces shine and visible oil

3. Balance oil production

• Peppermint and sage reduce oil by 30-40%
• Hair stays clean longer
• Visible results in 2-3 weeks

4. Eliminating dandruff

• Antimicrobial action on Malassezia
• Gradual disappearance of dandruff
• Lasting results in 4-6 weeks

5. Strengthening the skin barrier

• Hydration without chemical residue
• Natural minerals (calcium, magnesium)
• More resilient scalp

Properties of floral waters: beyond the microbiome

Floral waters offer recognized cosmetic properties:

• ✅ Hydrating property: Distilled water + natural minerals
• ✅ Toning property: Tightens and revitalizes
• ✅ Soothing property: Reduces inflammation and irritation
• ✅ Antioxidant property: Protects against oxidative stress
• ✅ Antimicrobial property: Inhibits pathogens gently
• ✅ Astringent property: Naturally tightens pores

Why the scalp microbiome is crucial

Your scalp is not an inert surface. It is a living ecosystem where billions of micro-organisms coexist: bacteria, yeasts, and fungi. This delicate balance is called the skin microbiome (or microbiota).

When this balance is preserved, your scalp is healthy: shiny hair, no dandruff, no itching. But as soon as it becomes unbalanced, problems appear: greasy hair, dandruff, irritation, chronic itching.

The good news? Natural and organic floral waters offer a gentle and scientifically proven solution to restore this balance without irritating your skin.

Discover how these traditional floral waters can transform the health of your scalp.

 

What is the scalp microbiome?

Definition: Microbiome vs Microbiota

These two terms are often confused, but they do not mean the exact same thing:

• Microbiota = the collection of micro-organisms (bacteria, yeasts, fungi) living on your skin
• Microbiome = the microbiota + its genetic and chemical environment

In practice, both terms are used to talk about the same concept: the microbial ecosystem of your scalp.

A complex and balanced ecosystem

Your scalp is home to approximately 100 billion microorganisms divided into several families:

Balance is key. When one species multiplies excessively (such as Malassezia), the imbalance begins.

The role of a healthy microbiome: 3 essential functions

A balanced microbiome fulfills three critical roles for the health of your scalp:

1. Skin barrier protection

Beneficial microorganisms create a protective barrier against external pathogens (harmful bacteria, aggressive fungi). They secrete natural antimicrobial substances that prevent infections.

2. pH and moisture balance regulation

A healthy microbiome maintains a slightly acidic pH (4.5-5.5) which:

• Prevents the growth of pathogens
• Maintains natural moisture
• Reduces irritation and itching

3. Local immune system

The microbiota stimulates your skin's immune defenses, strengthening its ability to regenerate and fight against external aggressions.

Composition of the hair microbiome: The main players

Beneficial bacteria

Cutibacterium Acnes (formerly Propionibacterium Acnes)

• Regulates sebum production
• Produces fatty acids that protect the skin
• In excess: causes dandruff and itching

Staphylococcus Epidermidis

• Beneficial commensal bacteria
• Produces antimicrobial peptides
• Protects against infections

Yeasts: Malassezia, the balancer

Malassezia is the most important yeast on the scalp. It:

• Naturally breaks down lipids (sebum)
• Lives in symbiosis with bacteria
• In excess → seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff, itching

This is why regulating Malassezia is essential for a healthy scalp.

 

 

Causes of microbiome imbalance: why things go wrong

Several factors can disrupt your skin microbiome:

External factors

• Harsh chemicals: shampoos with sulfates, stripping shower gels
• Tap water: chlorine, limescale, alkaline pH (7-8) instead of 4.5-5.5
• Pollution: fine particles, heavy metals
• Climate changes: cold, excessive humidity, intense sunlight

Internal factors

• Chronic stress: increases sebum production and weakens immunity
• Hormonal imbalances: puberty, menstrual cycle, hair loss due to menopause
• Diet: refined sugars, trans fats, lack of nutrients
• Antibiotics: also destroy beneficial bacteria

Hair care habits

• Over-washing: strips away protective oils
• Water that is too hot: damages the skin barrier
• Unsuitable products: too rich or too harsh for your scalp type

 

Dandruff and the microbiome: the scientific connection

Dandruff is not simply dryness. It is a visible symptom of a microbial imbalance.

Mechanism: How Malassezia causes dandruff

1. Excessive proliferation of Malassezia (due to the factors above)
2. Abnormal breakdown of scalp lipids
3. Production of irritating fatty acids (oleic acid)
4. Inflammatory reaction: itching, redness
5. Flaking: visible dandruff

Types of dandruff and microbiome

Good news: Rebalancing the microbiome gets rid of dandruff at the source, not just on the surface.

 

Hydrolats: the natural solution to rebalance the microbiome

What is a hydrolat (floral water)?

A hydrolat (also called floral water or flower water) is the byproduct of steam distillation of aromatic plants.

Distillation process:

1. Steam passes through flowers/plants
2. Extracts volatile molecules
3. Steam condenses into two phases:

• Essential oil (light, concentrated)
• Hydrolat (water-based, diluted, gentle)
• Key difference between water and a hydrolat: A hydrolat contains the same active molecules as an essential oil, but in a much lower concentration (0.1-1% vs 100%). That is why it is gentle and safe for daily use on the scalp.

Why floral waters rebalance the microbiome

Floral waters work on three levels:

1. Gentle antimicrobial properties

Floral waters contain active molecules (terpenes, phenols, aldehydes) that:

• Inhibit the growth of Malassezia
• Strengthen beneficial bacteria
• Do not destroy the overall balance (unlike antibiotics)

2. pH Regulation

Organic floral waters have a naturally acidic pH (3.5-5.5) that:

• Restores the scalp's protective acidity
• Neutralizes the alkaline effect of tap water
• Creates an environment where bad bacteria cannot thrive

3. Hydration and soothing

Floral waters contain:

• Distilled water: hydrates without chemical residue
• Minerals: calcium, magnesium, potassium
• Soothing molecules: flavonoids, tannins
• Toning effect: tightens pores, reduces inflammation

Benefits of organic floral waters

Organic floral waters offer an extra guarantee:

• ✅ No pesticides or chemical residue
• ✅ Natural distillation without synthetic solvents
• ✅ Maximum concentration of active molecules
• ✅ Better skin tolerance
• ✅ Minimal environmental impact

 

Hydrolat Shampoo

Gentle cleaning · 98% natural

• Organic hydrosols, sulfate-free
• Plant-based keratin, cationic AH
• Shine and flexibility

35.00 € (80)

See the treatment

Hydrolat Scrub

Scalp detox · 98% natural

• Purifies and removes residue
• Organic hydrosols, fleur de sel
• Lightness and shine

€39.00 (33)

See the treatment

The Hydrolat Mask

Intense hydration · ceramides

• Plumps and smooths the cuticle
• Cationic hyaluronic acid
• Repairs and reduces frizz

€49.00 (82)

See the treatment

The Day Serum

Heat protection · shine

• Heat, UV, and pollution shield
• Anti-breakage ceramides
• Smooth finish without adding weight

€35.00 (25)

See the treatment

Night Serum with Hydrolats

Nighttime regeneration

• Soothing organic hydrosols
• Fortifying probiotics
• Flexibility and density

€35.00 (27)

See the treatment

 

Recommended floral waters: guide by scalp type

1. Lavender floral water (Lavandula angustifolia)

Properties:

• Strongly targets and helps balance yeast
• Soothing and calming
• Regulates sebum production
• Tones the scalp

Ideal for:

• Oily scalp with flakes
• Persistent itching
• Sensitive and reactive scalp

How to use: Spray 1 to 2 times daily directly onto the scalp

2. Rose floral water (Rosa damascena or Rosa centifolia)

Properties:

• Naturally balances pH levels
• Hydrating and softening
• Gentle soothing care
• Mild tightening effect

Ideal for:

• Sensitive and irritated scalp
• Dry and itchy scalp
• All hair types

How to use: Daily tonic lotion, use as a spray or apply with a cotton pad

3. Chamomile floral water (Matricaria chamomilla)

Properties:

• Deeply soothing
• Gentle antimicrobial properties
• Reduces inflammation and redness
• Tones gently without irritation

Ideal for:

• Very sensitive or reactive scalp
• Mild seborrheic dermatitis
• Scalp irritated by chemical products

Usage: Daily spray or rinse after shampooing

4. Peppermint hydrosol (Mentha piperita)

Properties:

• Immediate feeling of freshness
• Regulates sebum production
• Powerful antimicrobial
• Stimulates blood circulation in the scalp

Ideal for:

• Very oily scalp
• Hair that gets greasy quickly
• Needs a refreshing and invigorating effect

Usage: 1-2 sprays daily, ideal as a mist

5. Clary sage hydrosol (Salvia sclarea)

Properties:

• Mild hormonal regulation
• Powerful antimicrobial
• Reduces sebum production
• Tones and tightens pores

Ideal for:

• Hormonally oily scalp
• Hair that gets greasy quickly
• Hormone-related imbalances

Usage: Daily spray or tonic lotion

6. Bay laurel hydrosol (Laurus nobilis)

Properties:

• Very powerful antimicrobial
• Regulates sebum production
• Toning properties
• Slightly astringent

Ideal for:

• Very oily scalp with dandruff
• Significant microbial imbalance
• Need for fast results

Usage: Daily spray or tonic lotion

7. Orange blossom floral water (Citrus aurantium)

Properties:

• Gentle and natural balance
• Soothing properties
• Slightly toning
• Pleasant, natural scent

Ideal for:

• All scalp types
• Sensitive scalp
• Needs balance without harsh action

Usage: Daily spray or tonic lotion

8. Immortelle floral water (Helichrysum italicum)

Properties:

• Intense anti-inflammatory action
• Healing and regenerative
• Antimicrobial properties
• Deep soothing care

Ideal for:

• Very sensitive scalp or eczema
• Severe irritation
• Needs regeneration

Usage: 2 to 3 sprays daily

9. Cornflower floral water (Centaurea cyanus)

Properties:

• Gentle and natural soothing effect
• Intense hydration
• Powerful anti-irritant
• Lightly toning

Ideal for:

• Very sensitive scalp
• Daily soothing care
• All types

How to use: Daily toner

10. Juniper Hydrosol (Juniperus communis)

Properties:

• Purifying and detoxifying
• Balances oil production
• Powerful toner
• Antimicrobial properties

Ideal for:

• Oily and congested scalp
• Needs purification
• Dull hair

How to use: 1-2 sprays daily

 

 

Comparison chart: choosing your hydrosol

 

Key: Organic flower waters guarantee a high concentration of active ingredients without any chemical preservatives.

Active ingredients in flower waters: the science behind their effectiveness

Table of active molecules by flower water

Concentration vs. Efficacy: Why Hydrosols Work

Why are hydrosols effective despite their low concentration?

1. Molecular synergy: Active molecules work together in synergy, not in isolation. The effect is multiplied.
2. Aqueous bioavailability: Water-based formula = better absorption by hydrated skin (hydrosol vs. essential oil)
3. Gentleness and tolerance: Low concentration = no irritation, safe for daily use
4. Cumulative effect: Regular application = lasting results and stable balance
5. Distillation process: Natural extraction preserves the integrity of active molecules

Scientific Comparison:

 

Scientific Verdict: Organic floral waters provide the best balance between effectiveness and safety for daily use.

How floral waters support the microbiome: mechanism of action

Step 1: Inhibition of Malassezia

Active molecules (terpenes, phenols) penetrate the cell wall of Malassezia and slow its growth without destroying beneficial bacteria.

Result: Gradual reduction of dandruff and itching (2-3 weeks)

Step 2: pH Restoration

Floral water lowers the scalp's pH from 7-8 (tap water) to 4.5-5.5 (ideal level).

Result: An environment that discourages harmful microbes while supporting beneficial bacteria

Step 3: Strengthening the skin barrier

Soothing molecules (flavonoids, tannins) reduce inflammation and strengthen the skin barrier.

Result: Less itching, more resilient scalp

Step 4: Lasting balance

With regular use, the microbiome naturally rebalances.

Result: Healthier, less oily hair, free of dandruff (4-6 weeks)

How to use floral waters every day: A practical guide

The daily use of floral waters is simple and flexible. Here are the different application methods to incorporate floral waters into your care routine.

Method 1: Daily spray (the simplest)

Materials: Spray bottle with organic floral waterSteps:

1. Spray 2-3 times directly onto the scalp (not the hair)
2. Massage gently with your fingertips for 30 seconds
3. Allow to dry naturally
4. Repeat morning and/or evening

Benefits: Quick, convenient, leaves no residue Ideal for: All scalp types

Method 2: Tonic lotion (applied with a cotton pad)

Materials: Floral water + cotton ball or padSteps:

1. Moisten a cotton pad with floral water
2. Apply to the scalp section by section
3. Massage gently
4. Let dry

Benefits: Precise control, ideal for very oily scalps Ideal for: Oily scalps, targeted dandruff

Method 3: Post-shampoo rinse

Materials: Floral water + lukewarm waterSteps:

1. After a gentle shampoo, rinse with lukewarm water
2. Spray the floral water onto your damp scalp
3. Massage gently
4. Rinse lightly or let dry naturally

Benefits: Easily fits into your routine, immediate effect Ideal for: All hair types, especially sensitive scalps

Method 4: Botanical mist (custom blend)

Materials: 2-3 floral waters + spray bottleSteps:

1. Mix 2-3 floral waters (e.g., 50% lavender + 30% rose + 20% chamomile)
2. Pour into a spray bottle
3. Spray daily
4. Shake before each use

Benefits: Combined action, personalized Ideal for: Complex scalp types (oily + sensitive)

Method 5: Purifying mask (1-2 times per week)

Materials: Floral water + white or green claySteps:

1. Mix 2 tablespoons of clay + 3 tablespoons of floral water
2. Apply to the scalp (avoid the hair)
3. Leave on for 15-20 minutes
4. Rinse with lukewarm water
5. Spray floral water afterwards

Benefits: Intensive action, deep purification Ideal for: Very oily scalps, severe dandruff

Table: Choosing your application method

Daily use tips

• ✅ Spray directly onto the scalp, not on the hair (avoids buildup)
• ✅ Massage gently to help active ingredients absorb
• ✅ Use an organic floral water: ensures maximum purity and effectiveness
• ✅ Be patient: allow at least 2-3 weeks for visible results
• ✅ Stay consistent: balance is maintained through regular use
• ✅ Test first: apply to a small area to check compatibility
• ✅ Mix with a few drops of plant oil (jojoba, coconut) if your scalp is very dry
• ✅ Discover your favorite floral water: every skin is unique, so test a few

 

Complete routine to rebalance your scalp

Weeks 1-2: Gentle cleansing + floral water

Morning:

1. Spray the chosen floral water onto the scalp (2-3 sprays)
2. Massage gently with your fingertips for 30 seconds
3. Allow to dry naturally

Evening:

1. Gentle shampoo (sulfate-free) with lukewarm water
2. Rinse with cold water
3. Spray the floral water onto a damp scalp
4. Let dry

Weeks 3-4: Intensification

Add 1-2 times a week:

1. Gentle purifying mask (white or green clay)
2. Mix with floral water (no water)
3. Apply to the scalp (leave for 15 minutes)
4. Rinse with lukewarm water
5. Spray floral water afterwards

Week 5-6: Maintenance

Stabilized daily routine:

• Morning: 1 spray of floral water
• Evening: Gentle shampoo + floral water
• 1-2x per week: Purifying mask

Important tips

• ✅ Use an organic floral water: ensures purity and effectiveness
• ✅ Spray directly onto the scalp, not on the hair
• ✅ Massage gently to help absorption
• ✅ Be patient: 2-3 weeks minimum to see results
• ✅ Keep it up: balance is maintained through consistency

 

Preserving floral waters: techniques and best practices

Why preservation is critical

Floral waters are more fragile than essential oils because they contain water. Without proper preservation, they can:

• Become contaminated by bacteria or mold
• Lose their active properties
• Develop an unpleasant odor

Optimal storage conditions

 

Practical tip: Write the opening date on the bottle to keep track of its freshness.

Convenient storage

Best place: Bathroom cabinet (cool, dry, away from light) To avoid: Window, very humid bathroom, refrigerator, near a radiator

Signs of spoilage

⚠️ Discard the floral water if:

• Unpleasant or vinegar-like odor
• Cloudiness or visible sediment
• Change in color
• More than 12 months have passed since opening

FAQ: Your questions about floral waters and the microbiome

Q1: How long before seeing results?

A: The first results appear in 2-3 weeks (less itching, less oily hair). Full results (disappearance of dandruff, stable balance) take 4-6 weeks of regular use. Why? The microbiome rebalances gradually. Patience is key.

Q2: Can I mix several floral waters?

A: Yes, it is even recommended for a more comprehensive action. Examples:

• Oily + sensitive scalp: Lavender + Chamomile (50/50)
• Oily scalp + dandruff: Lavender + Clary Sage (60/40)
• Dry + irritated scalp: Rose + Chamomile (50/50)

Tip: Try each floral water on its own first to find your preference.

Q3: Can floral waters affect the microbiome if used too often?

A: No, unlike antibiotics or harsh chemicals. Floral waters strengthen the hair's natural balance. You can use them daily without risk. However: If you have very sensitive skin, start with 3 to 4 sprays a week, then gradually increase.

Q4: Which floral water is best for oily hair that gets greasy quickly?

A: The best choices are:

1. Peppermint floral water: Regulates sebum + provides a refreshing sensation
2. Clary sage floral water: Hormonal action + sebum regulation
3. Lavender floral water: Overall balance + antimicrobial properties

Usage: Spray 1 to 2 times daily onto the scalp.

Q5: Can I use floral water if I have seborrheic dermatitis?

A: Yes, absolutely. Floral waters are particularly effective for seborrheic dermatitis because they:

• Inhibit Malassezia (main cause)
• Reduce inflammation
• Rebalance the microbiome

Recommendation: Start with lavender or chamomile floral water (gentler), 1-2 sprays daily. Important: If dermatitis is severe, consult a dermatologist at the same time.

Q6: Are organic floral waters really better than conventional ones?

A: Yes, for several reasons:

• Purity: No pesticides or chemical residues
• Efficacy: Maximum concentration of active molecules
• Tolerance: Better skin compatibility
• Sustainability: Environmentally friendly extraction

Verdict: For daily scalp care, organic floral waters offer the best balance of safety and effectiveness.

Q7: Can floral waters be taken internally to improve the skin microbiome?

A: Technically possible, but not recommended without medical advice. Floral waters are designed for external use. To improve your microbiome from the inside, focus on:

• Diet rich in probiotics (yogurt, kefir, kimchi)
• Regular hydration
• Stress management
• Quality sleep

Q8: What is the best hydrolat for all hair types?

A: Rose or orange blossom hydrolat are the most universal because they:

• Balance without harshness
• Suitable for sensitive skin
• Provide gentle yet effective action
• Have a pleasant scent

Tip: Start with one of these two, then adjust based on how your skin reacts.

Q9: How do I know if my scalp microbiome is unbalanced?

A: Warning signs:

• ✓ Visible dandruff (dry or oily)
• ✓ Chronic itching
• ✓ Hair that gets greasy quickly
• ✓ Redness or irritation
• ✓ Unpleasant scalp odor
• ✓ Dull or brittle hair

If you have 3+ symptoms: Your microbiome is likely unbalanced. Floral waters can help.

Q10: Do floral waters replace shampoo?

A: No. Floral waters complement shampoo; they do not replace it. Ideal routine:

1. Gentle shampoo (cleansing)
2. Floral water (rebalancing + soothing)
3. Conditioner (for long/dry hair)

Tip: Use a sulfate-free shampoo so you don't cancel out the effect of the floral water.

In summary: key takeaways

• ✅ The scalp microbiome is a living ecosystem that is essential to hair health
• ✅ An imbalance causes dandruff, itching, and greasy hair
• ✅ Organic floral waters rebalance the microbiome thanks to their gentle active molecules
• ✅ Each floral water has specific properties: lavender (oily), rose (sensitive), mint (very oily)
• ✅ Regular use (daily) delivers visible results in 2-3 weeks
• ✅ Storage in an opaque bottle, in a cool, dry place preserves effectiveness
• ✅ Organic floral waters ensure purity and maximum concentration of active ingredients
• ✅ Patience and consistency are the keys to success: 4-6 weeks for lasting balance

Useful sources

 

Scientific sources and official resources

Reference scientific articles

• Grice, E. A., & Segre, J. A. (2011). "The skin microbiome." Nature Reviews Microbiology, 9(4), 244-253.
• Gupta, A. K., et al. (2004). "Malassezia species: retrospective review and future outlook." Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 51(6), 955-968.
• Baydar, H., et al. (2004). "Antimicrobial activity and chemical composition of essential oil of Thymus vulgaris and Thymbra spicata." Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 52(14), 4477-4483.

Official resources

• ANSM (French Agency for the Safety of Health Products) — French cosmetics regulations
  
• Ecocert — Organic certification for cosmetics
• Cosmebio — French organic cosmetics quality label