BENEFITS OF ROSE WATER
Since time immemorial, Rosewater has been a part of health and beauty routines in Asian cultures, especially the Middle East. Its beautiful fragrance and anti-inflammatory properties make it a necessary part of beauty routines even today. It is also used for Ayurvedic applications.
Rosewater is made by the steam distillation of rose petals or infusing fresh or dried rose petals in boiling water. Pure rose water will be transparent and not pink. The pink tone is achieved by the addition of colour for the sake of making it look more enticing. Its therapeutic benefits are manifold, but most importantly, it’s the easiest antibacterial liquid you can use on cuts and wounds since it would be readily available and is toxin-free. Here are some of the common uses of rose water for beauty and wellness.
Natural toner
If you have oily skin, look no further for a toner. Rosewater can remove make-up, dead skin, grime and excess oil, leaving it fresh and clean. It can also treat mild acne and breakouts due to its astringent properties. At the end of a hectic day, spray rose water on your face and gently massage it onto your skin. Rinse with cold water. Even if you have dry skin, you can use rose water on it, as the pH of rose water is 5.5, which is considered ideal for the skin. Lock in the moisture with oils or serums afterwards.
For youthful skin
The antioxidants in rose water can fight free radicals generated by UV rays, pollution and stress. It also arrests elastase and collagenase, slowing down the ageing of the skin. Packed with Vitamin A and C, rose water can help the skin rebuild collagen when used regularly. And the best part? There are no harmful chemicals involved.
As lip scrub
Dead skin on the lips can give it a dry and dull appearance. Add a pinch of salt/sugar to rose water and dab the mixture over your lips gently. Remove with wipes, and you will see supple and soft lips sans discolouration. And the bonus? A mild fragrance on your lips all day.
To combat frizz
Hair can get extremely frizzy, especially during extreme temperatures. But worry not; rose water to the rescue! After you shampoo and condition hair, give your hair a final wash with rose water. Not only will it combat dandruff and other scalp issues, but it smoothens your hair and rid it of frizz. Those with curly hair say that rose water relaxes their curls to an extent and makes the hair manageable.
In aromatherapy
At the end of a tiring day, all you would want is to take a long relaxing bath. Add rose water to your bath and experience the stress dissolve as the heady aroma hits you. You can also add it to your bath scrubs for extra benefits. Alternately, spray it on your pillow before hitting the bed for a good night’s sleep. Inhaling rose water steam is also beneficial for headaches and migraines.
Ayurvedic Rose Water Masks for Skin
For best results, apply a honey and rosewater mask to your face and let it stay for half an hour. For dry skin, replace honey with coconut oil.
