Using steam to extract the highly fragrant and concentrated parts of plant roots, flowers, leaves, bark, and fruit.

By steeping a plant or flower in a solvent (usually glycerin, alcohol or water) to infuse the plant’s properties—kind of like making tea.

Has antioxidant and antibacterial properties that can protect against topical troublemakers (like fungi & yeast).

Has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can heal, calm and soothe the skin (without being too harsh and causing irritation).

Because they are so concentrated and fragrant, they may cause irritation, allergic reactions, or general redness when applied directly onto the skin.

Because they are diluted, they can be used in higher quantities and are gentler on skin while still providing the plant-based benefits from which they are derived.

Essential oils are pure and highly concentrated.

Extracts are diluted, though still highly-beneficial.

Don’t confuse essential oils with seed oils like Argan Oil, Rosehip Oil and Avocado Oil. These oils are derived from the seed of the plant and are not fragrant. Instead, they’re often used in skincare to hydrate and moisturize.

Water extracts, such as rose or lavender waters, are made from the water soluble parts of the flower (AKA the petals are usually steeped in water). They have many skin benefits and are far less irritating than essential oils (and they still smell amazing!).