Rose water benefits

We can all appreciate the beauty of a vase of roses, but if eyeing these floral beauties is all we’re doing, we’re missing out! When distilled properly, roses produce a versatile rose water that can benefit your skin from the inside out. Keep reading to learn how.

• Rose water has been used for centuries for its scent as well as for its calming and healing properties. In fact, rose water benefits have been noted as far back as ancient Egypt when Cleopatra herself made it a part of her beauty routine. It also has a history of being used medicinally by Native Americans in North America as well as by Middle Easterners many centuries ago.
• Rose water is created through a steam distillation of fresh rose petals, giving it an alluring aroma that’s hard to resist. Today, rose water is found in everything from facial sprays and toners to moisturizers and makeup removers.

Rose water benefits primarily originate from its antioxidants as well as vitamins A and C. These agents are powerful anti-agers. For this reason, rose water is often used to treat early signs of aging on the face and to brighten the skin. The incredible benefits of rose water run more than skin deep, though.

Rose water is also anti-inflammatory, astringent and antibacterial, making it excellent for treating wounds. According to the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine, this wound-healing ability is thanks to the fragrant water’s high levels of citronellol and geraniol. Rose water is loved and used by many to treat all types of cuts and scrapes for faster healing with less scarring. It’s even effective on burns!

Besides topical application, the very fragrance of rose water has its advantages. Its celebrated calming scent works via aromatherapy on the central nervous system to decrease depression and anxiety while enhancing mood. It can induce sleep similar to some prescription sleep aids.

• Though rose water benefits are widespread, the majority of people use it for their skin. An antioxidant-rich rose water spray can protect the skin from environmental damage, for instance. Not only that, but by calming inflammation, it can be used successfully on sensitive skin to reduce redness. It also opens the pores to let in nutrients and beneficial ingredients from other topical treatments.
• So not only is it beneficial in and of itself, it also boosts the absorption rate of other vital nutrients. Plus, good news for acne sufferers: The antibacterial properties of rose water can decrease the bacteria on the skin that causes breakouts. Using rose water for acne can also heal acne scars and rejuvenate skin tissue in areas of scarring.
• Rose water can be applied regularly to the skin with very little risk of side effects. In fact, it is safe on nearly all skin types. As a toner, consider applying chilled rose water gently with a cotton swab or through a spray bottle.
• Rosewater can also be used as a makeup remover when mixed into coconut oil for an extra boost of anti-aging benefits – even when cleansing the face. For the best anti-aging benefits or for wound healing, consider using rose water at least twice a day. 

Other than these topical uses, rose water can also be used in many other applications, including the following:

• Calm a sore throat
• Treat conjunctivitis of the eyes
• Decrease headaches and migraines
• Decrease bloating
• Stop bleeding

Rose water can be found in a variety of products, including perfumes, lotions and facial astringents. However, it is most commonly found in facial toners and rejuvenating sprays. When purchasing rose water, buyers should beware of “cut” recipes, which is the result of diluting pure rose water with chemicals and other questionable ingredients.

For example, alcohol-based ingredients can actually irritate the skin. Also, keep an eye out for synthetic fragrances. Rose water is naturally aromatic with no need for toxic, man-made scents. Besides purchasing ready-made products, making rose water at home is actually easier than you’d think.

This is DIY rose water toner that literally anyone can make at home! You simply need fresh rose petals, distilled water, and witch hazel.

1. Place the petals in a large pot of distilled water.
2. Simmer on medium-low for 30 minutes.
3. Strain the petals from the mixture.
4. Mix one part rose water with one part witch hazel into a glass spray bottle.
5. Store it in the refrigerator.

While rose water uses often focus on cosmetic benefits and its soothing scent, rose water can be used medicinally to treat a wide array of problems – particularly those originating on the skin, the largest organ of the body. It’s often found in lotions, toners and various skin sprays, making it easy to benefit from its versatile properties. Rose water’s delightful aroma calms the nervous system and enhances mood, while the rose oil in the water itself produces powerful antioxidant and anti-aging effects. Consider adding it to your skincare routine today!