For ages, rose water has been considered a magical potion for glowing skin. And if you are a kid from an desi household, you already know how obsessed grandmothers are with rose water for adding to their's (and everyone around them) skincare regime.
So how exactly does rose water benefit the skin and how is one supposed to use it? Well, that's what you are here to find out so read on!
Rose water is the liquid distilled from rose petals once they are steeped in water. What's left behind is a highly fragrant water which is rich in hydration, antioxidants, and antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Rose water is also used for culinary purposes, especially in Mediterranean, Middle--Eastern and Indian cuisines too. But when it comes to cosmetic use, it is usually coupled with glycerin or added to perfumes in the form of essential oils.
- Hydration: Rose water has natural humectant properties and does a fabulous job at keeping dry skin hydrated. Also, its cooling properties are great for refreshing the skin and calming inflammation.
- Reduces Inflammation: Another benefit of rose water for skin is that it contains anti-inflammatory properties that can help calm redness, itch, irritation and might even soothe the symptoms of skin conditions like eczema and rosacea.
- Balances The pH Level: Another reason why you see rose water being extensively used in toners is because it balances out the pH level of your skin, which in turn helps maintain the skin's barrier. This barrier is responsible for protecting the skin from nasties like irritants, pollutants, and bacteria.
- Brightens Skin: Since dry, parched skin is the major cause for dullness, rose water helps add glow back to the skin which gives it a brightened appearance with regular use.
- Fights Free Radicals: Rose water possesses excellent cooling and calming properties that fight off free radicals bothering the skin. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage skin cells, DNA, proteins, and lipids and what rose water does is neutralise them because it's rich in antioxidants.
You can either make fresh rose water at home (sans any preservatives) by simply spreading organic rose petals on the base of a tub and covering them with distilled water until completely submerged. Leave this for a few hours and strain the water for storing in a spray bottle for use. Or, if this feels too much of a hassle for you, buy the readily available rose water bottles available in the market. You can also buy skincare products like face mists, cleansers, toners, moisturizers among others that have rose water listed as an ingredient.
- Can I use rose water on face everyday?
Yes, rose water is extremely gentle on the skin and safe for everyday application. However, product formulas can be infused with rose essential oil so read the labels carefully before buying since essential oils are known for clogging pores and sensing the skin.
- Can every skin type use rose water?
Yes, rose water is suitable for all skin types since its a humectant that doesn't feel heavy on the skin. Also, since its super light on the skin, it doesn't cause excess sebum product for oily skin folks.
- Does applying rose water on the face overnight benefit?
Yes, it can as it has anti-astringent and anti-inflammatory properties that soothe inflamed skin, you will wake up to soothed and refreshed skin.
- Are there any side effects of rose water?
Skip using rose water if you are allergic to roses in general, or your skin is intolerant to its fragrance. It is absolutely essential that you do a patch test before going on to use rose water on your face. Apply it on the inner side of your arm and leave it for twelve hours or so to check if it's suitable for your skin.
