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Moumoujus

HAY WATER.

Essential CAS 100209-32-3 / FRAGRANCE

While 'Hay Water' isn't a standardized INCI, its primary component, purified water (Aqua), serves as the indispensable solvent in nearly all precision skincare formulations. It acts as a critical vehicle, facilitating the dissolution and uniform delivery of water-soluble active ingredients to the skin, thereby optimizing their efficacy.

Summary

Solvent Hydrating Agent (indirectly, by enabling actives) Vehicle for Actives

Science

Mechanism of Action

As a foundational solvent, the water component of 'Hay Water' primarily enables the dissolution and stable integration of hydrophilic active ingredients within a formulation. On the skin, it contributes directly to maintaining hydration, supporting cellular turgor, fortifying the skin's natural barrier function, and preserving elasticity. This fundamental hydration is crucial for overall skin health, reducing the visible signs of premature aging, and balancing the skin's moisture content.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Water-based formulations, particularly those featuring hyaluronic acid, have demonstrated substantial hydration benefits. One study observed a remarkable 134% immediate increase in skin hydration, which was sustained at a 55% increase after 6 weeks. These formulations also improved skin smoothness, plumpness, and reduced the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, underscoring water's essential role as a solvent enabling the effective delivery of such hydrating actives.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

As a primary solvent, 'Hay Water' (purified water) is not an active ingredient subject to 'dusting' considerations. Its role is to provide the liquid base for other ingredients.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 4.5 – 6
0 7 14

Stability

The stability of formulations containing water is critically dependent on the pH compatibility of co-formulated active ingredients. While pure water has a neutral pH of 7, maintaining a product pH aligned with the skin's natural slightly acidic range (4.5 to 6) is essential to minimize irritation and support barrier function. Extreme pH values can compromise ingredient stability, potentially leading to precipitation or degradation. Furthermore, uncontrolled moisture uptake can induce hydrolysis, impacting the physicochemical properties of bioactives.

Synergies

  • Enables optimal solubility and delivery of water-soluble actives, such as hyaluronic acid, enhancing their hydrating and rejuvenating effects on the skin.

Conflicts

  • Formulations with extreme pH values can compromise stability and efficacy.
  • Susceptible to degradation of bioactives via hydrolysis if moisture uptake is not properly managed.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
95%
Sensitization risk Low

Water (Aqua) is universally recognized as safe for cosmetic applications and forms the predominant component in most formulations. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel affirms its safety, while specifically assessing other ingredients within water-based systems. Topical preparations relying on water for delivery, such as those with hyaluronic acid, consistently demonstrate excellent tolerability across diverse skin types.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Essential

As the foundational solvent, Hay Water (purified water) is indispensable for formulation stability and enabling the efficacious delivery of water-soluble active ingredients, critically supporting skin hydration and overall dermal health.

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