Eugenia Caryophyllus Bud Water: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: June 27, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Eugenia Caryophyllus Bud Water?

Eugenia Caryophyllus Bud Water is a clear liquid made by steam-distilling the dried flower buds of the clove tree, a plant native to Indonesia that now grows in many tropical regions. During distillation, hot steam passes through the buds, carrying their aromatic compounds into water and leaving behind a gentle, water-based extract. The result contains small amounts of eugenol, eugenyl acetate, and other natural clove molecules that give the water its mild spicy scent and useful skin properties.

Clove has been prized for centuries as a spice and for oral care, and the same fragrant buds were later explored by early perfumers and soap makers. As gentler water-based extracts became popular in modern clean beauty, clove bud water found a place in cosmetic labs for its refreshing feel and multitasking benefits.

Today you will spot Eugenia Caryophyllus Bud Water in face toners, clarifying mists, purifying masks, anti-aging serums, after-shave splashes, scalp sprays, deodorant mists, and even some natural mouthwashes and tooth gels aimed at fresh breath. Formulators like it because it adds a light scent while supporting skin balance without the heaviness of oils.

Eugenia Caryophyllus Bud Water’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

Below are the key ways this ingredient helps a formula perform better

  • Antimicrobial – Helps keep the product itself fresh by slowing the growth of unwanted microbes and, when applied to skin or scalp, can support a clearer look by limiting the bacteria that lead to breakouts or odor
  • Antioxidant – Neutralizes some of the unstable molecules that can weaken skin over time, helping formulas offer extra protection against early signs of aging and environmental stress
  • Antiplaque – When included in oral care cosmetics like mouth sprays or tooth gels, it discourages the buildup of dental plaque for a cleaner feeling mouth and fresher breath

Who Can Use Eugenia Caryophyllus Bud Water

This gentle hydrosol suits most skin types. Its light antimicrobial action makes it especially helpful for oily and combination skin that is prone to clogged pores or blemishes. Normal skin typically tolerates it well, while very dry or highly sensitive complexions should approach with caution because natural clove compounds such as eugenol can occasionally cause redness or a tingling sensation.

The ingredient is wholly plant derived and contains no animal by-products, so it is considered appropriate for both vegetarians and vegans.

No specific warnings exist for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used in the low concentrations found in cosmetics. That said, clove constituents have shown stimulating properties in larger doses, so this information is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should speak with a healthcare professional before adding new skincare or oral care products to a routine.

Eugenia Caryophyllus Bud Water is not known to cause photosensitivity, meaning it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It also plays nicely with most other common skincare ingredients, making it easy to slot into a routine.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Every skin is different and reactions to topical Eugenia Caryophyllus Bud Water can vary. The issues listed below are only potential side effects and are unlikely for most users when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.

  • Skin irritation – mild burning or stinging can occur, most often on very sensitive or compromised skin
  • Allergic contact dermatitis – a small number of people may develop redness, itching or a rash due to sensitivity to eugenol or related clove compounds
  • Sensitization over time – repeated use on already reactive skin may gradually increase the likelihood of irritation
  • Dry patches – in rare instances its mild astringent nature can leave certain areas feeling dry or tight, especially when layered with multiple clarifying products

If any uncomfortable reaction develops stop using the product and seek guidance from a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0/5

Eugenia Caryophyllus Bud Water is almost entirely water with tiny traces of clove compounds so it leaves no oily residue that could block pores. The small amount of eugenol present is too low to form a film on skin therefore it earns a solid zero on the comedogenic scale.

That means it is generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts.

One thing to note is that some formulas pair clove bud water with richer plant oils for added scent or feel. In those blended products pore clogging potential will depend on the other ingredients, not the hydrosol itself.

Summary

Eugenia Caryophyllus Bud Water offers three main perks: it keeps unwanted microbes in check, supplies light antioxidant defense and in oral care helps stop plaque from clinging to teeth. These actions come from natural clove molecules such as eugenol and eugenyl acetate that disperse in the distilled water.

The ingredient is fairly niche. You will see it more often in indie or clean beauty lines that favor plant waters over synthetic scents yet it has not reached the mainstream popularity of rose or lavender hydrosols.

Most people can use it with confidence because it is low in irritants, free of oils and nonphotosensitizing. Still, every complexion is unique so it is wise to patch test any new product that lists Eugenia Caryophyllus Bud Water before fully adding it to your routine.

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