Pandanus Odoratissimus 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 Pandanus Odoratissimus Flower Water?

Pandanus Odoratissimus Flower Water is a fragrant, water based extract obtained by steam distilling the blossoms of the screw pine tree, known botanically as Pandanus odoratissimus in the Pandanaceae family. The resulting liquid captures the flower’s light, tropical aroma along with trace amounts of naturally occurring sugars, flavonoids and volatile oils that give the plant its soothing qualities.

In South and Southeast Asia the screw pine flower has long been valued for its calming scent and is traditionally used to perfume clothes, cooking ingredients and bathing water. As modern skincare began to look for gentle botanical additives, formulators turned to these distilled floral waters for their mild skin friendly profile. Today the ingredient is produced in facilities where freshly harvested flowers are placed in a still, exposed to steam, and the condensed vapor is collected and filtered to yield a clear aromatic water.

Because it is lightweight, mildly hydrating and pleasantly scented, Pandanus Odoratissimus Flower Water shows up in face mists, toners, sheet masks, after sun gels, soothing moisturizers, hair refresh sprays and even luxury cleansers that aim to add a subtle natural fragrance while caring for delicate skin.

Pandanus Odoratissimus Flower Water’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This floral water plays one key role in cosmetic formulas.

As a skin conditioning agent, it helps keep the surface of the skin soft and supple. The trace plant compounds bind a thin layer of moisture, supporting the skin’s natural barrier without leaving a greasy feel. Its gentle nature also makes it suitable for calming products designed for sensitive or recently exposed skin, all while providing a light botanical scent that can reduce the need for stronger synthetic perfumes.

Who Can Use Pandanus Odoratissimus Flower Water

Because it is water based and free of heavy oils, Pandanus Odoratissimus Flower Water suits most skin types including oily, dry, sensitive and mature. Its light texture adds a hint of moisture without clogging pores or leaving shine so even acne prone skin can usually tolerate it. There are no known reasons it would be unsuitable for any particular skin type unless a person has a specific allergy to the Pandanus plant family.

The ingredient is plant derived with no animal by-products involved in harvesting or distillation which makes it appropriate for both vegans and vegetarians.

Current research shows no direct link between topical Pandanus Odoratissimus Flower Water and risks during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Still, this is not medical advice and women who are pregnant or nursing should show any cosmetic product they plan to use to their doctor just to be safe.

Pandanus Odoratissimus Flower Water does not contain acids or photosensitising compounds so it should not make skin more sensitive to sunlight. It can be worn during the day alongside regular sunscreen without extra precautions.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Pandanus Odoratissimus Flower Water vary from person to person. The following are potential side effects that could occur in rare cases. With properly made products most users will not experience these issues.

  • Mild redness or stinging
  • Itching in individuals with a Pandanus allergy
  • Contact dermatitis if the formula contains undisclosed additives or fragrance blends

If any irritation or discomfort appears stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic)

Pandanus Odoratissimus Flower Water is almost entirely water with minute amounts of volatile plant compounds and sugars that do not have an oily or waxy texture. Because it lacks fatty acids or heavy emollients it will not block pores which earns it the lowest possible comedogenic score.

This makes the ingredient suitable for people who are prone to acne or congestion. Only if the finished product includes other pore-clogging additives would there be a concern.

As with any botanical water quality matters; poorly preserved batches can grow microbes that might irritate blemish-prone skin so reputable sourcing is important.

Summary

Pandanus Odoratissimus Flower Water serves mainly as a skin-conditioning agent, lending a whisper of hydration and a naturally light fragrance without adding weight or oil. The trace plant sugars help bind moisture on the surface and the gentle aromatic molecules provide a soothing sensory experience.

While not as famous as rose or lavender water it has a niche following in South and Southeast Asian inspired formulas and is popping up more often in modern face mists, toners and calming gels thanks to its tropical scent and friendly safety profile.

Overall it is considered very safe with a low risk of irritation or pore blockage. Still, everyone’s skin is unique so it is wise to patch test any new product that contains this floral water before making it a regular part of your routine.

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