What Is Citrus Depressa Flower Water?
Citrus depressa flower water comes from the small sour citrus native to Okinawa and Taiwan, often called shikuwasa or shequasar. The clear water is collected when the freshly picked blossoms and fruit are gently steam distilled, a process that captures the plant’s aromatic compounds plus trace amounts of natural sugars, minerals and flavonoids. While local people have long used the juice in food and folk beauty rituals, cosmetic makers began exploring the distillate in the last couple of decades for its light scent and skin friendly profile. Today it is produced by soaking the flowers and fruit in water, passing steam through the batch then cooling the vapor so the condensed water can be separated and filtered. The result is a mild, alcohol free ingredient ideal for formulations that need a hydrating floral boost. You will often spot it in face mists, sheet masks, lightweight moisturizers, after sun gels and anti aging serums where a refreshing feel is desired.
Citrus Depressa Flower Water’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This floral water supports several roles in skin care products thanks to its balanced composition.
- Humectant: Draws moisture from the air and holds it on the skin surface helping to keep skin feeling soft and bouncy even in dry climates
- Skin conditioning: Smooths rough patches and improves overall texture giving the complexion a healthier appearance
- Emollient: Adds a light layer of softness that helps reduce tightness without heaviness making formulas more comfortable for daily wear
- Skin protecting: Supplies plant based antioxidants and forms a gentle barrier that supports the skin’s natural shield against environmental stress
Who Can Use Citrus Depressa Flower Water
Citrus depressa flower water suits normal, oily, combination, sensitive and mature skin thanks to its feather-light texture that hydrates without clogging pores. Dry skin can still gain a refreshing boost but may need a richer cream to seal in moisture. Acne-prone users generally tolerate it well due to its noncomedogenic nature.
The ingredient is derived entirely from plant material with no animal inputs so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians when sourced from cruelty-free suppliers.
No research flags specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women at typical cosmetic levels. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should have a doctor review their skincare routine for added assurance.
The distillate does not contain the furocoumarins that cause photosensitivity in some citrus oils and shows no known conflict with common actives like retinoids or vitamin C.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical use of Citrus depressa flower water differ between individuals. The points below outline potential but uncommon reactions when the ingredient is properly formulated in a finished product.
- Skin irritation mild redness or stinging on very reactive skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis rare sensitivity in people allergic to citrus botanicals or natural fragrance components
- Eye discomfort temporary burning or watering if product enters the eyes
If any adverse reaction occurs discontinue use and seek medical guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5 (non-comedogenic)
Citrus depressa flower water is almost entirely water with trace plant compounds and no heavy oils or waxes that can block pores. Because it evaporates quickly and leaves only a light hydrating film, it does not trap dead skin cells or sebum that could lead to breakouts.
That makes it a safe pick for acne-prone or congested skin types.
Only very impure or poorly preserved batches might pose a risk, so reputable sourcing and good formulation practices are important to keep the ingredient clean and stable.
Summary
Citrus depressa flower water works mainly as a humectant, skin conditioner, mild emollient and skin protector. It pulls water into the upper layers of skin, smooths texture, leaves a soft touch and supplies gentle antioxidant support that helps the skin’s own barrier stand up to everyday stress.
The distillate is still a niche ingredient outside East Asia yet its light feel and refreshing citrus scent are helping it gain traction in face mists masks and gel creams that target users who want fast hydration without greasiness.
Overall it is considered very safe with low risk of irritation or pore clogging. As with any new skincare component it is smart to perform a quick patch test when trying a product that features Citrus depressa flower water just to be sure your skin agrees with it.