Roses in Skincare

Rose is one of the most beautiful and popular flowers. Its nourishing and healing properties have been known since the times of ancient civilizations. Turns out rose is also a great skincare ingredient suitable for all of the skin types. Let’s learn what exactly it can do for your skin.

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Two of the most popular forms of rose substances used in skincare are rose oil and rose water. Rose oil is one of the most valued skincare ingredients. It is a great source of vitamin C, which works as an antioxidant, brightens the skin and strengthens its immunity. It also has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Rose water, produced by distillation of rose petals, has moisturizing, toning and soothing properties. It is a great ingredient to use in cleansers, tones, moisturizers and face masks.

Types of roses used in skincare

Damask rose

This popular species of rose originates from Bulgaria and is often called the queen of all flowers. You can recognize it by an extremely sweet and pleasant smell. Damask rose is a source of essential fatty acids that are used to create rose essential oil. It not only has wonderful healing and cosmetic properties, but also smells great. In order to produce 1 liter of rose essential oil, one must use 5 tones of rose petals.

Benefits of using damask rose in skincare products:

• Thanks to the high concentration of essential fatty acids, it will help to keep your skin moisturized and hydrated.
• It is very rich in antioxidants, which help to protect the skin against harmful free radicals and signs of premature aging.
• It has anti-inflammatory properties, which make it a perfect ingredient for complexions struggling with conditions like acne or eczema. It will work to reduce redness and irritation by strengthening the blood vessels thanks to the presence of vitamin C and flavonoids.
• Acne-prone skin will love rose essential oil, thanks to its antibacterial properties.
• Damask rose cosmetics might also be perfect for tired, dull skin, as they possess brightening properties. Using them regularly helps to even out the skin tone and reduce the appearance of pores.
• It is often used in cosmetics for mature skin, because of its tightening properties.

Rosa centifolia

Rosa centifolia has its origins in France. It is actually a blend of a couple of different species of roses and its petals are edible. It is often used to make jams and syrups. Petals of rosa centifolia contain anthocyanins and polyphenols, which makes it a great antioxidant. On top of that it helps to strengthen and protect the blood vessels and softens the epidermis. Essential oil made out of this type of rose has relaxing and antidepressant possessions.

When should you use cosmetics with rose?

• to protect your skin against premature aging

I’m sure you’ve heard about oxidative stress and its consequences. Rose is a powerful antioxidant which can protect your skin from the damage done by free radicals. That not only means premature aging prevention but also skin cancer protection. Rose essential oil will work to protect your skin, while also reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

• to soothe irritation

Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, cosmetics with rose extracts will be perfect for people struggling with skin conditions like acne and eczema. They will help to visibly reduce redness and irritation.

• to smooth wrinkles

Roses are rich in vitamin C and vitamin E, which boost collagen production. Collagen is a protein that’s produced naturally in the human body. It is responsible for proper function of skin, bones, connective tissue and many, many others. Boosting of collagen production will help to prevent wrinkles and sagging.

• to support the skin barrier

They will work to hydrate the skin, lock the moisture inside and protect it from the harmful environmental factors.

• to prevent production of excess oil

Products containing rose water help to balance out moisture and control the excessive production of sebum. They also help to maintain the natural pH balance of the skin.

To learn more about natural ingredients in skincare, check out my article.