By Rania Dawud

Rose water is rose-flavoured water and it is typically used in several Middle Eastern desserts, but there are other uses for this fragrant liquid including incorporating it into your beauty routine. 

Known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, rose water contains antioxidants that hold many benefits for the skin and hair. And the beauty of using this natural wonder is that it is kind to all skin types. 

Since you can find rose water in nearly every Arab household, why not add it to your beauty regimen for your own advantage? 

What can rose water do for my skin?

Because of its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, it can soothe irritation in the skin from a variety of issues, including but not limited to: eczema, rosacea, acne as well as cleaning cuts and broken skin. 

In addition to that, the anti-inflammatory properties are known to help improve one’s complexion by reducing redness and puffiness in the face. 

Using rose water as a skin toner can be great as its astringent properties help clean out the pores from oil and grime. And since it is hydrating, it is unlikely to dry out the skin the way chemical toners tend to. 

It also helps balance the skin by maintaining the skin’s natural pH balance, which in turn controls excess oil on the face. 

Many makeup removers are chemical-based and can be harsh on the skin while rose water can work just as well without harming the skin. For the more stubborn waterproof makeup, mixing a tiny bit of coconut oil with the rose water can make it more effective while still being soothing on the face. 

And finally, rose water freshens up the skin. A spritz of rose water on your face can be a hydrating and refreshing pick-me-up during a long day. 

What can rose water do for my hair?

The same properties in rose water that benefit the skin also apply to your hair: 

1. Rose water helps control an oily scalp.

   It manages the scalp’s pH balance which in turn helps reduce excess oil in the hair.  

2. Rose water also helps reduce dryness in hair.

   providing the moisture needed, especially if the hair is damaged from constant blow-drying and straightening. You can also massage rose water into the scalp to inspire rehydration. 

3. And since it helps with dryness, massaging rose water into your scalp is one way to reduce dandruff too.

4. Meanwhile, the scent of rose water is a known mood enhancer and helps the body relax; a spritz of rose water on your pillow helps you sleep better at night.

Make it yourself

Although it is easy to find rose water in every corner shop, it is even easier to make it at home. Just follow this recipe:

1. Gather petals off around six roses and rinse them with water to rid them of any dirt. 

2. Place them in a pot over heat and pour just enough distilled water to cover the petals. 

3. Bring the water to a boil and simmer for 20 minutes. Or if they are pink or red roses, until they lose their colour.  

4. Afterwards, strain the water and throw away the petals. 

5. Finally, store in a jar or spray bottle and enjoy!