###### Abstract  
Elderberry (_Sambucus nigra_ L.) hydrolate, derived from domestic steam distillation, holds promise as a multifunctional ingredient for skincare and cosmetic applications. This study investigates the chemical composition and biological activities of elderberry hydrolate obtained through steam distillation. Despite the growing interest in elderberry hydrolate, there has been a lack of comprehensive studies elucidating its chemical composition and potential bioactive constituents. To address this gap, we conducted a detailed analysis of elderberry hydrolate's composition, antioxidant activity, and antigenotoxicity. Genotoxic evaluation and antioxidant assays (ABTS, DPPH) were conducted to assess its biological properties. We obtained elderberry hydrolate with a notable transfer of aromatic compounds through the steam distillation process, highlighting its efficacy and sustainability. The chemical characterization identified vital compounds, including phenylacetaldehyde, 2-acetyl-pyrrolo, and an unidentified major component, collectively contributing to the hydrolate's aromatic and biological properties. The genotoxic evaluation using the Comet assay demonstrated the hydrolate's protective effects against DNA damage induced by hydrogen peroxide and streptomycin. The optimal DNA protection was observed at 10% (\(w/v\)), attributed to the antioxidant activity of the identified compounds. The hydrolate exhibited significant antioxidant potential, demonstrating concentration-dependent responses and correlating higher concentrations with increased antioxidant activity. These findings underscore the multifaceted attributes of elderberry hydrolate, positioning it as a promising natural ingredient for skincare. This study supports elderberry hydrolate as a valuable natural and sustainable product development resource.  
elderberry hydrolate; steam distillation; antioxidants; cosmetics; chemical characterization 2  
elderberries, hydrolates have garnered increasing attention for their potential health benefits and multifunctional properties [2]. Hydrolates, also known as hydrosols, floral waters or distillates, are the aqueous co-products obtained during essential oil extraction [3]. These co-products have been valued for their aromatic profiles and for possessing a spectrum of bioactive compounds distinct from those found in the corresponding essential oils [4]. Elderberry hydrolate, in particular, holds promise as a valuable resource for various applications, including cosmetics and aromatherapy [5; 6].  
Despite the growing interest in elderberry hydrolate, there remains a dearth of comprehensive studies elucidating its chemical composition and potential bioactive constituents. Such investigations are essential to fully understanding the hydrolate's potential benefits and applications. Studies suggest that elderberry possesses significant antioxidant and antigenotoxic properties, yet detailed investigations are necessary to understand its potential benefits and applications entirely [7; 8]. To address this gap, our study conducts an in-depth analysis of the chemical profile and biological activities of elderberry hydrolate obtained through steam distillation.  
We employ a range of methodologies, including gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) for chemical characterization, antioxidant assays (ABTS, DPPH), and genotoxic evaluations using the Comet assay to assess its biological properties. By elucidating the antioxidant potency and antigenotoxicity of elderberry hydrolate, we aim to provide valuable insights into its potential applications, particularly in the cosmetics industry. Our findings contribute to the broader context of natural product research and development, highlighting elderberry hydrolate as a promising, sustainable, and multifunctional ingredient for skincare formulations. This comprehensive exploration aims to shed light on the versatile bioresource that elderberry hydrolate offers, emphasizing its significance as a sustainable and valuable asset for future product development.