Rose – the symbol of beauty

The rose has long been the symbol of beauty and love.  It offers many beauty-enhancing benefits, particularly for skin.  The ancient Greeks and Romans perfumed their bath water with rose petals.  In its distilled form, rose has been included in cosmetics, medicines and therapeutic treatments for many centuries.  As an essential oil, Rose has antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties, and can be applied topically to treat a range of ailments from abrasions and burns to common skin conditions.  Rose syrup is effective in easing sore throats, a fever and coughs.

You’ll find rose on the ingredient list of many modern beauty products.  It may be listed in a variety of forms; rose water, rose distillate, rose essential oil or rosehip seed oil.   Rose essences do far more than just add a beautiful scent to your products; they help rejuvenate and replenish skin and can make your skin feel as velvety soft as a bed of roses.

The humble rose really is one of nature’s miracles, here’s how;

Moisturising:  The natural oils found in roses help skin feel smooth by locking moisture in and it is especially beneficial for those with sensitive skin because the sugars in its petals create a soothing feeling.
Anti-inflammatory:  Rose oil can actually help calm spots or reduce redness.  Its calming properties can also help sooth rosacea and eczema.
Anti-bacterial:  Naturally anti-bacterial rose essential oil can help treat acne and soothe acne-prone skin.  As it has natural cleansing properties, rose makes an ideal ingredient in face washes and cleansers too.
Toning:  As a natural astringent, rose helps tighten pores and restore suppleness for a radiant complexion.  Rose water is probably the gentlest toner you’ll find, unlike conventional alcohol-based toners, rose water leaves skin feeling smooth and soft.
Antioxidants:  Did you know that rose contains high levels of vitamin c?  As a powerful antioxidant it can help protect skin cells from damage and may help prevent sunburn.
Naturally fragrant:  the most distinctive attribute of the rose is its beautiful, delicate scent. For that reason many organic beauty products contain rose in lieu of synthetic fragrances.
Relaxing:   Aromatic rose essential oil calms and soothes the mind.  Rose petals are intrinsic in Ayurvedic medicine to detoxify and calm.  While this doesn’t directly give beauty benefits, using a rose-scented lotion or cream will soften the skin and relax the mind.

Something to try at home

This totally natural, soothing face mask will nourish the skin and leave you with a radiant glow.

Simply soak 8 petals in 3-4 tablespoons of water for 2-3 hours.
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.
Ta dah, beautiful skin.