Roses are one of the most revered flowers and have inspired lovers and poets for centuries. The flower’s beautiful visual appeal and its high value in culture makes it a perennial favorite gift for loved ones. Rose water and rose oil are two useful byproducts which are extracted from rose flower petals. Besides the relaxing and soothing fragrance these products emanate, it is believed that rose water and rose oil will have beneficial results when applied to skin. From soothing the skin to treating acne, rose water and oil are claimed to have a range of benefits for different skin types.
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Rose oil is the actual oil that is extracted from rose petals and is a well-known additive to perfume. Rose water, on the other hand, is the byproduct that results from the production of rose oil. Both products are available in stores or can be homemade. Used for centuries in religious rituals, food dishes, and for cosmetic purposes, rose water and rose oil are also thought to be great additives to face masks. With antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and moisturizing properties, it is claimed that rose water and rose oil are great remedies for many different skin problems.
According to the organic resource website, Organic Authority, rose oil contains “calming properties [that] can also help sooth rosacea and eczema,”and its natural antibacterial elements can help treat acne. It is also claimed that rose water works as an anti-inflammatory. As stated on the website How Stuff Works, rose water can “sooth irritated skin [and with its] rich source of antioxidants […] can help strengthen skin cells and regenerate skin tissue”; therefore, when applied to your face, it will give you a relaxing at-home spa treatment.
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According to Organic Authority, rose water “contains high amounts of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant. This important vitamin can help protect skin cells from damage, such as from staying out in the sun too long. Some evidence even suggests that rose water can help prevent sunburn.” How Stuff Works states that “too much sun destroys elastin, the fibers that give your skin its ability to stretch. “When those fibers break down, they cause your skin to lose firmness and sag.”
How Stuff Works further explains that
“There’s some evidence that rose water may help decrease damage to the skin’s elastin fibers and prevent wrinkles, but researchers are still testing this theory.”
With the nicer weather coming up, keep rose water in mind in addition to sunscreen if you are planning on spending extra time in the sun.
Verdict: Truth. Roses aren’t just for aesthetic purposes. Organic Authority gives a face mask to try that uses rose petals: “Simply soak 8 petals in 3-4 tablespoons of water for 2-3 hours. Then, mash the petals into the water and add 3 tablespoons of honey. Mix well and apply to entire face. Leave on for 15-30 minutes. Rinse with cool water,” and enjoy the soothing results! If you are interested in making your own rose water or rose oils, home improvement website HGTV Gardens gives a great tutorial on how to successfully extract the oils and water from your roses. Check out their website for more information on making your own skin remedy.
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