9 Anti-Aging Properties of Rose Water and How to Use It

Rose Water has been a staple in both traditional and modern wellness regimes for hundreds of years. 

Although it is often found in skincare or was used as a part of an old household remedy series, it may seem, at first glance, antiquated. However, its enduring popularity speaks to its versatility and usefulness.

Dating back to 9th Century Persia, Rose Water has been an important substance in many capacities - not just in beauty treatments or food preparation, but also in religious and ceremonial practices.

With the recent interest in natural and clean beauty products and practices, rose water is seeing a well-deserved revival. While its delicate, yet powerful, qualities have survived centuries, it is still an excellent addition to modern skincare practices.

Here’s why Rose Water is just as practical to use today as it was centuries ago.

What Can Organic Rose Water Actually Do?

1. It helps smooth out lines and wrinkles

Rosewater isn't magic, but it does help with the smoothness of your skin over the long term. With the antioxidants in rose water it will give your skin a little extra help when it comes to premature aging. I personally noticed that when I was using it on a regular basis, I wasn't noticing as many fine lines under my eyes 

2. Accelerates healing for minor skin problems

Scratched your face with a nail? Popped a pimple (don't do that)? Rose water possesses anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that soothe things down. It's gentle, and that's why I find myself going back to it.

3. Guard your skin from the yucky stuff

Pollution, strong sun, whatever—we're getting hit with a lot. Rose water contains vitamins that assist your skin in creating some kind of defense. I typically spritz it on prior to leaving the house, especially during the summer.

4. Tones your skin without the sting

This is a big deal. So many toners are drying and alcohol-y. Rose water? Not really. It makes your skin feel fresh, rinses out some grossness from your pores, and makes your skin feel light, not tight.

5. Essentially, a drink of water for your face

Seriously, if you have dry or dull skin, it does help. I like to spray it on before moisturizer or sometimes just keep it in my bag for when my face feels meh. It provides a soft, hydrated appearance without a greasy finish.

6. Stimulates collagen

Collagen makes your skin firm and springy. As we age, the body loses its collagen-making speed, but there are some ingredients (yes, rose water is one of them) that support the process. I couldn't say it completely gave me new skin, but for sure it made my skin a bit tighter.

7. Makes the rest of your products work better

One of my go-to tricks? Pre-priming with rose water before your serums or creams. It hydrates the outer layer of your skin, so the good stuff penetrates more effectively.

8. Illuminates skin that's feeling "meh"

You know that tired, dehydrated, or just off look? Rose water wakes up the complexion. It stimulates blood flow a little, tightens things up, and restores some healthy glow.

9. Gentle on sensitive skin

If your skin tends to get upset easily—redness, breakouts, irritation come to mind—rose water is normally okay. It's not oily, won't clog things up, and won't burn. That's a plus for anyone with sensitive skin.

How I Make Rose Water at Home (It's Easy)?

I've tried making it two ways. One is super easy, and the other is more of a mini science experiment. Here's both:

The simmer method-

• I take some new rose petals (organic, preferably), throw them into a pot, and top with distilled water.

• Heat on low for 30–40 minutes until the petals' color is gone.

• Let it cool down, strain it into a bottle, and refrigerate. I finished using it within a few weeks.

The distillation method-

• You place a bowl within a bigger pot and toss petals in and around it.

• Pour in distilled water, put the pot lid upside down, and put ice on top.

• When the steam reaches the cold lid, it drops into the bowl. That's your clean rose water.

• It's more time-consuming, but it also lasts longer, up to six months in the fridge.

• Though I prefer to make this myself, I have to admit—occasionally, I just purchase a bottle. Refresh Botanicals is organic, clean, and it lasts forever.

How I Incorporate Rose Water into My Routine

Using rose water in my daily regimen is easy and extremely effective. I usually start by lightly spritzing it on my face before cleansing—it can help my skin wake up and start prepping it for the next steps.

After cleansing, it works beautifully as a gentle toner by getting any lingering dirt or traces of makeup off the skin. 

On hotter days, I keep it within reach for some midday refreshment; there is nothing like a spritz of rose water to revive and soothe the skin in hot weather.

I also enjoy adding a few drops into my moisturizer to add hydration and to help my skin absorb it. And after I apply my makeup, I use it as a natural setting spray to help everything settle nicely with the addition of a dewy, fresh-looking base. 

And even on the days I don't follow my complete skincare routine (which are rare), a quick mist of rose water is a must. I think organic rose water is an easy step that has a lasting effect.

Final Thoughts 

There is a good reason rose water has survived this long. It works, it's easy, and it does not overdo it. Whether you make it at home in your kitchen or pick up a clean bottle off the shelf, rose water is one of those skin care staples that is just right. If your skin has recently gone wild, or your regimen is just too complicated, it might be time to go back to something that is tried and true. 

Organic rose water isn't the most beautiful thing sitting on your countertop, but maybe it's the most refreshing!