Legends have it that Cleopatra bathed in rose water to get soft, plump, and radiant skin, while Romans used rose water in their beauty products.
Rose water has been an indispensable ingredient in skincare since the oldest civilizations.
It has been used for skin, whether through aromatherapy, perfumes, or just as toners.
But what is so special about something as simple as rose water? What are the benefits of rose water on the face and how to use it for your skin?
Let’s answer all your questions in this blog.
History of Rose Water
Rosa damascena or Rosa centifolia, the finest of roses known for their fragrance, were first cultivated in the Middle East while the rose-water industry thrived in Persia back in the 10th century.
Avicenna, a 10th-century Persian scientist, is said to have invented rose water, and soon, it was one of the most sought-after elixirs of beauty globally.
What is Rose Water?
Rose water is a fragrant liquid created by distilling rose petals in water. The best rose water is derived from the distillation process of rosa damascena or Rosa centifolia. Interestingly, the Damask rose (Rosa damascena or Rosa centifolia) is cultivated only in Turkey, Bulgaria, and certain parts of Iran and India.
The result after distillation is an aromatic liquid that contains a rich concentration of compounds that interact in synergy to promote your skin’s well-being.
Here’s the chief constituent of rose water.
-
Phenolics
As antioxidant phytochemicals, they protect your skin from environmental aggressors like pollution, UV, and other toxins by inhibiting free radical formation in your skin.
-
Terpenes
Due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, Terpenes in rose water makes it extremely effective in cleansing and soothing the skin.
-
Flavonoids
They are prized for their soothing effect on inflamed skin and defense against oxidative stress. Flavonoids also increase the skin's inherent defense properties, making it bright and healthy-looking.
-
Citronellol and Geraniol
These naturally occurring essential oils give rose water its characteristic aroma. Along with their fragrance, they boost antifungal and anti-inflammatory qualities, making rose water a potent remedy for skin ailments.
What are the benefits of rose water on the face?
Now that we know the main constituent and meaning of rose water, let’s discuss its varied benefits. Regardless of whether you are dealing with irritation, dryness, or the appearance of aging, rose water can be of significant help. Here are the various ways rose water helps the skin:
1. Soothes irritated skin
Rose water can soothe irritated or inflamed skin. Because it is anti-inflammatory, it can reduce redness, stop swelling, and ease itching caused by conditions like rosacea or acne. This makes it a great choice for anyone with sensitive skin as well.
2. Hydrates the skin
Rose water is a gentle yet effective hydrator, ideal for dry skin. When applied to the face, it helps lock in moisture and prevent skin from becoming flaky or dull. It’s perfect for restoring hydration on the go, leaving your skin feeling soft, smooth, and plump.
3. Cures sunburns
Sunburned skin can turn red and sore. Due to its anti-inflammatory and cooling properties, rose water is one of the best home-based after-sun treatments. The application of rose water on sunburned skin can relieve pain and redness and help the skin heal quickly.
4. Rich in antioxidants
Free radicals are unbalanced charged molecules that cause harm to skin cells, accelerating aging signs. Rose water is high in antioxidants, which protect your skin against oxidative stress by donating electrons to unstable free radicals.
5. Balances the pH levels
Rose water will also balance the natural pH level of your skin. When the skin pH is unstable, it results in dryness, acne, and redness. Rose water helps balance the skin’s pH level for healthy and radiant skin.
6. Reduces dark circles
Rose water is an excellent remedy for dark circles. With its ability to rejuvenate and hydrate the delicate skin around your eyes, it reduces puffy eyes and lightens dark circles, making you look well-rested and radiant.
How to apply rose water on your face?
Rose water has many uses, and to understand how you can make the most of it to rejuvenate your face, read further:
Applying rose water as a toner
After washing your face, apply rose water as a toner. Pour some rose water on a cotton pad and swipe it across your face. You can also dab it lightly all over your face. This will balance your skin's pH, remove any remaining dirt, and prep the skin for further steps of the skincare routine.
Rose Water as a Facial Mist
As a face mist, spray rose water for a daytime pick-me-up. Its cooling and rehydrating properties will keep you refreshed and your skin rejuvenated.
Combining rose water with other products
Rose water is a mild and light ingredient that can be used for all your skincare regimen steps, be it face masks or moisturizers, without sensitizing the skin
No surprise, rose water is also a staple ingredient in most homemade face mask recipes.
Try, for instance, combining rose water with glycerin or aloe vera, along with some gram flour and curd to create a homemade nourishing face mask for your lazy weekends
The overnight rose water treatment: A secret to glowing skin
Have you ever wondered about the benefits of rose water as an overnight treatment? When applied before bed, rose water acts as a hydrating and nourishing treatment that works wonders while you sleep. It helps to soothe your skin, reduce redness, and lock in moisture overnight, giving you a fresh and glowing complexion in the morning.
How to apply rose water on your face for overnight treatment, you ask?
Just soak some cotton with rose water and gently dab it all over your freshly cleansed face and neck. Alternately, use rose water as your toner in your PM skincare routine.
Who can use rose water for the face?
Rose water is suitable for all skin types. However, it is best to consider your skin type for its most suitable application process.
-
For oily skin: Apply rose water as a toner to help balance oil production and prevent clogged pores.
-
For dry skin: Use rose water as a hydrating mist or mix it with your moisturizer for added moisture.
-
For sensitive skin: Rose water’s soothing properties make it ideal for calming sensitive or irritated skin. Apply it as a toner or mist to reduce redness and inflammation or just to get a dose of freshness on the go.
Side effects of rose water you must know
-
On the rarest of occasions, rose water can be unsuitable for some. Therefore, always do a patch test before you apply any new ingredients to your face.
-
For the safest application, avoid mixing rose water with alcohol-based products, strong chemical exfoliants like salicylic acid, and active facial bleaching agents.
-
Do not use highly concentrated essential oils with rose water, regularly, in your skincare.
Rose Water is one of the most trusted veterans of skincare for times in memorial now. So, next time you’re looking to elevate your skincare regimen, don’t forget to reach for this timeless
beauty ingredient!
FAQs:
Is rose water good for the face?
Rose water is an excellent ingredient for your face. It can help nourish and plump your skin. Additionally, it acts as a perfect face mist for an instantly refreshing feel.
Can rose water brighten skin?
No, rose water isn’t a brightening agent so it cannot make your skin brighter.
What to mix with rose water for the face?
Rose water can be applied on your face directly. Additionally, you can mix it with any product of your choice like your moisturizer or face pack.
What not to mix with rose water?
Avoid mixing strong chemical exfoliants like salicylic acid and active facial bleaching agents with rose water.
Can I put rose water in my hair?
Yes, rose water is known to improve the shine in your hair and also reduce frizz.
You can try:
