Delightful Uses of Rose Water

Traditionally, it is used as a facial cleanser. This not only cleanses the skin but improves the skin condition as well. It is not just the aroma that makes it so popular, it also has exceptional healing qualities.

It is a byproduct which is derived during the process of distillation of rose petals and water for the production of rose oil. Thus, it is basically obtained as a leftover liquid. Traditionally, damask roses are used for the production of rose water. This special kind of rose has a large number of petals.

This rose was first grown extensively for rose water in Iran and then Bulgaria. Today, it is found in many other countries like Italy, Spain, and France. Till date, it is the Middle East countries who are the greatest producers of rose water in the world, as damask rose is widely available there.

It is an essential ingredient for natural skin care. It is suitable for all types of skin. It has an excellent hydrating effect and can act as a natural moisturizer for dry skin. It acts as an excellent toner and maintains the oil balance in the people having oily skin. It also possess excellent cleansing properties.

As it tightens the skin pores really well, it can also bring down wrinkles, and other signs of aging to a great extent. It works as an astringent and heals skin inflammation caused by sunburns. Its antibacterial properties enable it to treat acne and other forms of skin diseases and prevent their recurrence.

When the skin tends to become irritated after shaving, it can be used as an aftershave and will have a soothing effect on the skin. Furthermore, it is used as an ingredient in cosmetics and foundations, and it can keep the skin soft and beautiful.

In some recipes, it is used as a substitute of vanilla because of its sweet smell. It also has a sacred importance in Hindu and Muslim religion. In Islamic rituals, it is used before prayers to cleanse up the body and spirit.

Here are some of the most popular ways of using it:

• Prepare a natural cleanser for the face using one cup of rose water, two teaspoonful of glycerin, and a few drops of rose essential oil. When used regularly, it can reduce fine lines and wrinkles from one's face.

• Apply rose water on the face and neck before putting on the makeup. This will help the makeup last longer and will give a natural glow to the skin.
• It can be used for removal of regular makeup. Dip a cotton ball in rose water and rub it gently all over the face in circular motions. This would scrub out the make up and retain the soft feel of the skin.

• A natural perfume can be made by mixing up of one cup of rose water and a few drops of jasmine essential oil. Store it up in a dark glass bottle with a tight lid. This perfume is light and has a refreshing natural fragrance. It can be used even by those having sensitive skin and cannot use regular perfume products.

With the wide range of uses mentioned, it might prove beneficial when included as a part of one's daily skincare routine and also at times in food. Further, it can be prepared easily at home. Take some rose petals and water in a sun tea jar and keep it under the sun for some days.

In this way, one can get homemade rosewater with this simple method. However, the concoction thus prepared tends to get contaminated by bacteria and will not last for a long time.