What Is Rose Water?
Rosewater is fragrant water prepared by steeping or steaming rose petals (1). Traditionally, this popular ingredient has been used in cosmetic formulations, Middle Eastern cuisine, medicine, and perfumes. Rosewater contains about 10%-50% of rose oil, one of the major by-products obtained by distilling rose flowers. It has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anti-anxiety, and antioxidant properties (1). There are several benefits of using rose water for the skin.
Benefits Of Rose Water For The Skin And Face
May Help Balance Skin pH Levels: Our skin has a pH between 4.1-5.8 (2). The pH of rose water is usually between 4.0-4.5. A study observed that skincare products with a pH between 4.0-5.0 could help minimize skin irritation and maintain the skins natural pH levels (3). Helps Ease Redness: A pre-feasibility report on rose water states that rose oil and rose water have an astringent effect on the blood capillaries close to the skin surface. Applying rose water helps ease redness caused by the enlarged capillaries (4). May Hydrate Your Skin: Rosewater feels refreshing on the skin and can help keep it hydrated. It is popularly used in toners to minimize the appearance of pores, as mists to refresh your makeup, soothe sunburns, and boost the efficacy of DIY masks. Traditionally, women bathed in rose water to keep their skin soft, smooth, and glowing. Has Antimicrobial Effects: Rose essential oil has antimicrobial effects. A study found that the essential oil and absolute had a strong antibacterial effect against strains of Aureus (cause acne), E. Coli, C. Violaceum, and several other bacteria (1). Since rose water contains rose oil, it may also help minimize acne and keep your skin healthy. Contains Antioxidants: Rosa damascena has antioxidant properties. The extracts of this rose and the essential oil derived from it have free radical scavenging properties (1). This may reduce oxidative stress and help improve signs of aging to maintain youthful skin. May Heal Wounds: Traditionally, rose oil is used for wound healing (1). Rose oil has anti-inflammatory benefits and antimicrobial properties. It contains rose oil, so using rose water may also help heal wounds. It is a common home remedy for soothing razor burns. Has Anti-inflammatory Effects: A rat study found that rose extract could reduce edema in the paw. However, it stated that the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effect of Damascena (mainly its extracts) could be attributed to vitamin C present in it (1).
Let us find out how to use rose water and reap all its benefits.
How To Use Rose Water For Skin And Face
1. Rose Water Toner
Rosewater is often used as a toner to reduce puffiness of the eyes (cotton pads soaked in cold rose water), soothe sunburns, and keep the skin hydrated. You Will Need
A few strands of saffron ½ cup of rose water A bottle
Process This combination may help brighten your skin. This works for all skin types. However, you may customize it accordingly. Here is how. DIY Toners For Different Skin Types
2. Rose Water For Healthy Skin
Sandalwood oil was found to have therapeutic benefits, along with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties (5). This popular remedy can soothe the skin and may help with uneven skin tone. You Will Need
2 tablespoons of sandalwood powder 2 tablespoons of rose water
Process
3. Rose Water For Acne-Prone Skin
Witch hazel has potent anti-inflammatory properties. It is rich in salicylic acid that can soothe acne lesions (6). This recipe can tone oily skin and improve the appearance of skin pores. You Will Need
1 tablespoon of witch hazel 1 tablespoon of rose water
Process
4. Rose Water And Aloe Vera Mask For Dry Skin
This face mask helps to soothe your skin and prevent inflammation. Aloe vera gel is an excellent ingredient that helps reduce inflammation. It also has antibacterial and moisturizing properties (7). You Will Need
1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel 1 tablespoon of rose water
Process
5. Rose Water And Cucumber Mask For Sensitive Skin
Cucumber feels extremely cooling on the skin and has a refreshing effect (8). This face mask can help soothe sensitive skin. You Will Need
1 tablespoon of grated cucumber 2 tablespoons of rose water
Process
6. Rose Water And Honey Face Mask For Hydration
Honey has hydrating properties that help seal moisture in your skin (9). In combination with rose water, honey makes for an excellent hydrating solution for dry skin. You Will Need
1 tablespoon of honey 2 tablespoons of rose water 1 tablespoon of aloe vera
Process
7. Rose Water And Basil Mask For Sunburns And Rashes
The holy basil-rose water mixture has excellent cooling properties. Holy basil also has antibacterial and antifungal properties (10). This solution helps calm your skin, soothe sunburns, and heal red and itchy patches. You Will Need
10-15 holy basil 200 ml of rose water
Process These are a few ways to use rose water for your skin. However, it is better to avoid commercial rose water brands as they may contain preservatives and additives that may irritate the skin. Hence, it is best to prepare rose water at home. Find out how in the next section.
How To Make Rose Water At Home: DIY Recipe
Heres the simplest way to make rose water using the simmering method. You Will Need
Petals of 10 roses 2 liters of distilled water
Process Although rose water is considered safe for the skin, you may experience certain side effects.
Side Effects Of Rose Water
There arent any significant side effects of rose water. However, it contains rose essential oil, which may cause allergies in some people. Hence, it is better to do a patch test before you use rose water. If you are sensitive to rose water, you may experience:
Itching Burning Stinging Redness or rashes
These are signs of an allergic reaction. In such cases, consult a dermatologist immediately. How many times can you use rose water on your face a day? We have compiled a list of some lesser-known uses of rose water that you can check out in the infographic below. Keep scrolling! You can apply rose water twice a day as a toner or moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and soft. Can we apply rose water on our face overnight daily? Yes, you can. You can massage rose water on your face gently and leave it overnight daily to obtain soft and glowing skin. What is the best time to use rose water? There is no specific time to use rose water. You can apply rose water after washing your face in the morning or before going to bed at night. Can rose water remove dark spots? There are currently no studies that suggest that rose water can remove dark spots. However, anecdotal evidence suggests that regular application of rose water with other ingredients like lemon juice may lighten dark spots gradually over time. Does rose water lighten skin? There are currently no studies that suggest that rose water can lighten your skin. However, skincare enthusiasts believe that using a face mask combined with rose water and potato juice may lighten your skin over time. Which rosewater is best? Natural homemade rosewater is, without a doubt, the best for your skin. Can I use rose water as sunscreen? No, rose water cannot be used as sunscreen. It is ideal to use rosewater as a face mist in the morning before applying vitamin C and sunscreen. Also, it is not recommended to use rose water after applying sunscreen. Which is better: rose water or toner? Both provide similar advantages to the skin and can be a part of your skin care routine. That said, rose water is a natural toner free of toxic chemicals and is better for sensitive skin. Does rose water cause pimples? No, rose water is a natural toner that keeps your pores clean, eliminates excess oil, and shrinks pimples.
