We’re always on the hunt for new, innovative beauty ingredients, but sometimes it pays to look to the past.
Rosewater and damask rose oil have been used for thousands of years to treat everything from impurities and dryness to sensitive skin and a dull complexion, making it one of the industry’s best-kept secrets – until now.
Here, Maura Cannon Dick, from vegan and cruelty-free beauty brand Heritage Store, shares everything you need to know about rose-infused creams, mists and oils.
Flower power
Heritage Store has been utilising the beautiful benefits of rose since the early-1970s, and Cannon Dick says the natural ingredient is suitable for a range of concerns.
She explained: “Essential rose is known to help soothe and hydrate the skin, that’s why it is great for all skin types.
“Our rosewater, for example, has only two ingredients, and our Rosewater & Glycerin Hydrating Facial Mist (£11.49, superdrug.com) has only three ingredients. Without lots of other ingredients that could possibly cause skin irritation, they are gentle on sensitive skin.
“Rose oils and extracts may also help smooth the appearance of skin texture, while hydrating and supporting the skin’s barrier function, too.”
From AM to PM
Whether you follow strict multi-step Korean-inspired skincare or like to keep things simple, it’s easy to add rosewater to your routine.
“Rosewater sprays are incredibly versatile, must-have beauty products,” said Cannon Dick.
“They can be used as soon as you wake up to refresh your skin, and as a prep step in your morning skincare routine. Apply before your serum or moisturiser, so your skin better accepts the product.
“You can also use rosewater mists to set your make-up, and throughout the day for a pick-me-up, after exercising, and before bedtime.”
Love your locks
Cannon Dick added: “Our Rosewater & Glycerin mist is also wonderful sprayed on the part line to refresh the scalp, and can be spritz onto locks to scrunch curls. Plus it helps to revitalise hair products, and create a glossy look.”
Eau de perfection
Not just a key skincare ingredient, natural rose also has a relaxing scent, and can be paired with other aromatherapy oils.
Cannon Dick explained: “Rose works especially well to uplift and clarify when added to bergamot, mandarin, orange, lemon or grapefruit, or juniper and cypress essences.
“It is extra calming, too, when combined with lavender, chamomile or neroli, and is grounding and sensual when added to jasmine, vetiver, sandalwood or frankincense.”
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