Lavandula Dentata 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: July 1, 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 Lavandula Dentata Water?

Lavandula Dentata Water is the clear, lightly aromatic liquid that remains after steam distilling the whole Lavandula dentata plant, a member of the mint family better known as toothed or French lavender. During distillation steam passes through the fresh plant material, carrying off its volatile compounds. When the steam cools the oil separates and the water portion is collected as a gentle floral distillate rich in trace amounts of water-soluble lavender molecules, minor terpenes and natural plant sugars.

Lavender waters have been used in personal care since ancient Mediterranean times for their pleasant scent and skin-friendly feel. Modern cosmetics draw on that heritage by adding Lavandula Dentata Water to formulas where a mild dose of botanical hydration and a soft lavender aroma are welcome.

Manufacturers source the raw plants from Mediterranean and Middle Eastern farms, then perform steam distillation on site or in nearby facilities to keep the volatile compounds fresh. The resulting water is filtered and preserved to meet cosmetic standards before it reaches labs that blend it into products.

You will commonly spot Lavandula Dentata Water in facial mists, toners, sheet masks, lightweight moisturizers, after-sun gels, soothing body lotions and hair conditioning sprays. It can also serve as the base liquid in natural deodorants and gentle makeup removers.

Lavandula Dentata Water’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

In skincare this ingredient brings two main functions that work hand in hand for a smoother hydrated finish

  • Humectant – draws moisture from the air and holds it on the skin surface so formulas feel refreshing and help reduce tightness or flaking
  • Skin Conditioning – softens the skin, supports a healthy feel and subtly improves texture which can make other active ingredients spread more evenly

Who Can Use Lavandula Dentata Water

This floral water is generally suitable for all skin types. Dry and mature skin appreciate the extra moisture it pulls toward the surface while oily and combination complexions benefit from a lightweight hydrating boost that will not clog pores. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it well thanks to its low level of fragrance molecules yet anyone with a known lavender allergy or a history of reacting to scented products should approach with caution.

Lavandula Dentata Water is entirely plant derived so it aligns with vegan and vegetarian lifestyles. No animal by-products or animal testing are required to obtain the distillate though finished products should still be checked for other non-vegan ingredients.

Pregnant or breastfeeding women can typically use products containing this ingredient because the trace compounds left in the water are far below the levels of concern found in concentrated essential oils. This is not medical advice and those who are pregnant or nursing should always ask a qualified healthcare professional before adding any new cosmetic product to their routine to be on the safe side.

The distillate does not contain photosensitizing molecules so it will not make skin more vulnerable to sun damage. It can be applied morning or night without changing sunscreen habits.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Lavandula Dentata Water vary from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects but most users will not experience these issues when the ingredient is properly formulated and preserved.

  • Allergic contact dermatitis – redness itching or rash in individuals allergic to lavender compounds
  • Mild stinging or burning – possible on very dry cracked or freshly exfoliated skin
  • Fragrance sensitivity symptoms – rare headache dizziness or nausea from the natural scent in scent-reactive users
  • Eye irritation – watering or discomfort if the liquid accidentally enters the eyes

If any of the above effects occur stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5

Lavandula Dentata Water is over 99 percent water with only trace levels of lavender-derived volatiles and virtually no heavy oils or waxes that can lodge in pores. Because it lacks fatty acids or large emollient molecules it does not create the kind of film that traps dead cells or sebum. For that reason it is considered non-comedogenic.

Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin, especially in lightweight formulas like toners or mists.

As with any watery botanical ingredient the final product’s comedogenic impact also depends on other ingredients such as carrier oils, silicones or thick butters so always check the full ingredient list.

Summary

Lavandula Dentata Water acts mainly as a humectant and a skin-conditioning agent. It attracts ambient moisture to the surface of the skin, easing tightness while its mild botanical constituents leave skin feeling soft and smooth so other actives glide on evenly.

The ingredient is moderately popular in clean beauty and aromatherapy-inspired lines yet less common in mainstream mass-market products compared to bigger names like rose or witch hazel water. Brands that favor gentle plant distillates are bringing it to wider attention.

Overall safety is high because the distillate contains only minute concentrations of lavender compounds and is usually well preserved. Most people tolerate it well, though anyone new to a product that contains it should still perform a quick patch test on a small area first to rule out unexpected sensitivity.

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