What it is
This ingredient is the water collected during steam distillation of Roman chamomile flowers, carrying small amounts of the volatile and water-soluble compounds present in the plant. In formulations it functions largely as part of the water phase, contributing a light botanical scent and a perception of mildness. It is typically used at modest levels in toners, lotions, and sunscreens where a calming, plant-derived character is desired.
Safety & warnings
Chamomile is a member of the Asteraceae (Compositae) family, so individuals sensitized to ragweed, mugwort, or related plants may react to it. As a dilute hydrosol the concentration of reactive constituents is generally low, but it can still act as a contact allergen in susceptible people. It is water-based and not associated with comedogenicity.
Origin & sourcing
Natural; produced by steam distillation of the flowering heads of Chamaemelum nobile (Roman chamomile), a low-growing herb in the Asteraceae family.
History
Chamomile has a long history of use in traditional skin care preparations, and its distilled flower water has been adopted by modern cosmetics as a gentle aqueous botanical ingredient.
Questions everyone asks
Is Anthemis Nobilis Flower Water the same as chamomile essential oil?
No. The flower water is the aqueous distillate left after distillation, containing only trace water-soluble compounds, whereas the essential oil is the concentrated volatile fraction.
Why is it used in sunscreens?
It is included as a botanical water-phase ingredient to lend a mild, plant-derived character and light scent rather than for sun protection.