Lilium Candidum Flower 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 Lilium Candidum Flower Water?

Lilium Candidum Flower Water is the gentle floral water that results when steam passes through fresh white lily blossoms during distillation. The steam carries volatile, water-soluble compounds from the petals, then cools into a clear aromatic liquid rich in trace phytochemicals such as flavonoids, mild sugars and natural acids. White lilies have symbolized purity since ancient Mediterranean times, and their soothing petals were steeped in water for skin rituals long before modern cosmetics adopted standardized distillation. Today reputable suppliers harvest the flowers at peak bloom, perform low-pressure steam distillation within hours and filter the condensate to remove plant particles. The finished hydrosol is then added as a water phase ingredient in a range of products including hydrating facial mists, calming toners, sheet masks, lightweight moisturizers, after-sun gels and prestige anti-aging serums.

Lilium Candidum Flower Water’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

In formulations Lilium Candidum Flower Water is prized for its skin conditioning ability, meaning it helps keep skin feeling soft, smooth and healthy. The floral water lightly hydrates, supports a balanced pH and imparts a fresh delicate scent, making it an appealing natural alternative to plain distilled water. When used consistently it can leave the complexion looking more supple and comforted, enhancing the overall sensory experience of the product.

Who Can Use Lilium Candidum Flower Water

This gentle floral water suits most skin types including dry, normal, combination and sensitive skin because it is largely composed of soothing plant water and trace nutrients. Oily or acne-prone skin can also tolerate it well since it is lightweight and non-occlusive, though results will depend on the overall formulation of the product it is blended into.

Lilium Candidum Flower Water is entirely plant derived, contains no animal by-products and is therefore appropriate for vegans and vegetarians. The distillation process involves only water, steam and the white lily blossoms, with no animal testing required for its production by reputable suppliers.

Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals are not known to face specific risks from topical use of this ingredient in standard cosmetic amounts. Nevertheless this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should consult a healthcare professional before adding new skincare products to their routine to be safe.

The ingredient does not contain photosensitizing compounds and will not make skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it can be used day or night without raising the risk of sun-related irritation. It is also free of common allergens such as essential oil constituents and synthetic fragrance, which further broadens its compatibility for users who react to stronger botanicals.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Lilium Candidum Flower Water vary from person to person. The possibilities listed below are potential outcomes only and are unlikely for most users when the ingredient is formulated and preserved correctly.

  • Mild redness or flushing in highly sensitive skin
  • Temporary stinging if applied to compromised or freshly exfoliated skin
  • Contact dermatitis in rare cases of specific lily allergy

If any discomfort, persistent redness or itching develops after use, discontinue the product immediately and seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5 (non-comedogenic)

Lilium Candidum Flower Water is almost entirely water with minute, water-soluble plant compounds and virtually no oils, waxes or heavy molecules that could clog pores. Because it evaporates quickly and leaves no residue, it earns the lowest possible score on the comedogenic scale.

Its non-occlusive nature makes it suitable for people prone to acne or frequent breakouts.

The only caveat is quality control: if a final product is poorly preserved, microbial growth rather than the lily water itself could trigger irritation or blemishes. Reputable formulations avoid this issue by using adequate preservatives.

Summary

Lilium Candidum Flower Water conditions the skin by delivering a light splash of hydration, supporting a comfortable pH and adding a subtle fresh scent that enhances the feel of lotions, mists and toners. It works because the distillation process captures trace flavonoids, sugars and natural acids that help keep the surface soft and balanced.

While not as headline-grabbing as rose or witch hazel waters, white lily hydrosol enjoys steady popularity among brands that favor gentle botanicals and minimal irritants, especially in products aimed at sensitive or mature skin.

The ingredient is considered very safe with a low risk of side effects for most users. Still, whenever you introduce a new cosmetic containing Lilium Candidum Flower Water it is wise to perform a small patch test first to make sure your skin agrees with the overall formula.

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