Roses have been used in beauty products for centuries due to their numerous benefits for the skin. Humans have been cultivating them for roughly 5,000 years, captivated by their scent. During the 17th century, roses were in such high demand that rose water was used as legal tender in parts of Europe.
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Roses have been used in beauty products for centuries due to their numerous benefits for the skin. Humans have been cultivating them for roughly 5,000 years, captivated by their scent. During the 17th century, roses were in such high demand that rose water was used as legal tender in parts of Europe.
Since ancient times, we’ve recognized that roses may have medicinal and cosmetic properties, making them highly sought after by everyone from royals like Cleopatra to the general public. In some cultures, rose water is so revered that it’s sprayed on guests and featured in religious ceremonies.1
Rose Water
Rose water is a by-product obtained during the production of rose oil. The process involves mixing rose petals with distilled water and heating them in a kettle, which produces water vapor. This vapor is then passed through a condenser. The rose oil, rich in unsaturated fatty acids and fat-soluble active ingredients, settles at the bottom in a viscous form. Meanwhile, the rose water, consisting of the water-soluble parts of the rose blossom, sits at the top as condensed water vapor.2
Rose water can benefit any skin type, but it is especially gentle on sensitive skin. Read on to discover some of its benefits.
1. Wound Care
Rose water has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine for wound care and skin issues. It can be applied to treat cuts, burns and scrapes caused by minor injuries.3
2. Calms Irritation
The vitamin C content in rose water can soothe irritation and blotchy skin caused by conditions like eczema, rosacea, or psoriasis. It can also alleviate swelling and discomfort caused by acne, improve post-acne scars, and enhance overall complexion for brighter, more even-toned skin.3
3. Protects Skin
Rose water contains vitamins A, B, and E from rose petals, and is a rich source of antioxidants. These vitamins, along with the phenolic compounds in rose water, can help protect the skin from free radicals and oxidative stress.3,4
4. Reduces Wrinkles
Rose water can aid in treating signs of aging or sun damage. It contains tannin and vitamin C, which can boost collagen production and help reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Additionally, it can temporarily plump fine lines, improve skin elasticity, and tighten sagging skin.3,4,5
5. Clears Skin
The use of rose water as a toner can effectively unclog pores and help remove dead skin, dirt and other impurities. Although the effect is temporary, it can tighten pores to reduce the likelihood of them clogging up.4
6. Makeup Use
Treating the face with rose water (in mist form) before applying makeup can help prevent makeup from getting into open pores and causing them to clog. Applying rose water after makeup helps settle the makeup on the skin. Using rose water both before and after makeup can make removing traces of makeup easier.3,6
7. Hydrates Skin
Rose water can hydrate and refresh your skin by penetrating deep into the outermost layer of skin. It supports a healthy skin barrier by reducing transepidermal water loss, which results in a well-nourished, glowing complexion and restores moisture for a brighter look.5
8. Balances Skin Oils
Rose water is known to help control excess sebum production by balancing your skin’s natural oils without dehydrating or stripping your skin. Its low pH level assists in restoring normal function to the protective acidic layer on the skin’s surface and helps repair damage caused by dehydration, particularly during the cold months. It can also reset your skin’s pH when it’s been thrown off because of harsh products and prevent blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples by controlling excess oil.5,6
Rose Water Uses
Rose water is gentle and can be used as needed. Here are some easy ways your clients can incorporate it into their skin care routine at home:
- Apply rose water mist on your face during the day to provide hydration to the skin, especially on hot days.
- Spray your face with rose water before applying your favorite sheet mask to improve the hydration effects.
- Apply rose water before layering on serums, moisturizers, and sunscreen as a toner.
- After cleansing, saturate a cotton pad with rose water and gently wipe it across your face as a toner to balance the pH level of the skin.
- Adding rose water to a clay mask can prevent the mask from drying out your skin. It also has soothing properties and a beautiful scent that can make your skincare routine feel more luxurious and enjoyable.
- Use rose water as a mild astringent to soothe nicks and razor burn.
A Cherished Ingredient
Roses have been cherished for their beauty and fragrance for thousands of years, but their value extends beyond their aesthetic appeal. The byproducts of roses, particularly rose water, have been used in beauty and skincare regimens due to their numerous benefits. Rose water is a gentle and natural product that can be beneficial for all skin types, especially sensitive skin. Today, rose water continues to be a staple in many skincare routines and is also used in various cultural ceremonies. Its enduring popularity attests to its effectiveness and the timeless allure of roses.
References:
- https://amakiskincare.com/blogs/news/the-sweet-history-and-benefits-of-rose-water
- https://www.lofficiel.at/en/beauty/skincare-tip-rose-oil-and-rose-water-how-effective-are-the-miracle-products
- https://corazonorganicbeauty.com/products/rose-water-face-mist
- https://www.herbaldynamicsbeauty.com/blogs/herbal-dynamics-beauty/the-many-benefits-of-roses-for-skin
- https://www.byrdie.com/rose-water-benefits-4844386
- https://skincarebutik.com/rose-water
Shahma Ataullah is a Mas Aesthetician and Licensed Educator at Aesthetic Northwest Institute Bellevue, Washington. She has more than 10 years of experience in the industry.
