Photo by Valeria Boltneva from Pexels
3 min. read
Queen of All Flowers
Roses are red, violets are blue, our skincare is great, and so are you!
Poetry aside, roses have long been celebrated by Ayurveda as they represent balance. Find out why this beautiful flower is a cornerstone for ancient healing and why we use it today.
Origins
Many types of rose extracts have been used for centuries by different civilizations. Not only is the rose one of the most acclaimed flowers for its beauty and fragrance, but for its many benefits in skincare.
Rose absolute is obtained from the fresh blossoms of the Damask rose’s shrub. First extracted in Bulgaria, their top-notch quality rose absolute remains unchallenged.
It’s very much like an essential oil, but what differs is the method of extraction. An essential oil is obtained via cold-pressing or distillation, while an absolute is achieved by solvent extraction. Although they are similar, the absolute is much more concentrated than the essential oil and carries more intense benefits.
Rosewater, or Aqua Rosae Fortior, was first discovered by the Persians. It is prepared by soaking rose petals in water. Its benefits are exploited in skincare due to its calming properties, primarily because it can be used as an all-natural toner. Several religions use it in ceremonies such as weddings and funerals. It is even said that Cleopatra used rosewater in her beauty regimen.
Rose hydrosol, which is extracted from the Damask rose, or Rosa Damascena, has been used for thousands of years. Its extraction has been traced back to Greece. This potent ingredient is created by distilling rose petals with steam.
Richness
Rose absolute is also greatly valued for its skincare benefits, as its anti-aging and skin rejuvenating effects are well-known. This is because it contains vitamin C, a fantastic ally in both boosting collagen production and preserving the collagen already in your skin. It also contains vitamin E, which helps in treating and preventing dry and flaking skin.
Rosewater contains vitamin A, an antioxidant that protects the cells in the skin against sun damage. It has anti-inflammatory properties due to its vitamin B content, which can soothe skin irritations caused by eczema and rosacea. The regular use of rosewater keeps the skin free of extra oil.
Rose hydrosol tones and cools the skin. The pH of rose hydrosol is very close to the skin’s pH. Therefore, it can help balance the skin’s pH while boosting the absorption of the nutrients you put on it. It is rich in flavonoids, powerful antioxidant agents that help the body combat inflammation created by your body’s immune response mechanism.
Keep this in your pocket!
Ayurvedic Ancient Wisdom
Roses have been used by Ayurvedic healers for thousands of years, as it is one of the best tridoshic ingredients found in nature. Rose extracts are known to balance and harmonize the body, mind, and soul, no matter how they are consumed.
Rose absolute helps Vata stay moisturized and avoid its tendency towards dry, flaky skin.
Rosewater is remarkably helpful for Pitta, as it can be used to cool and pacify this Dosha’s sensitive skin.
Due to its astringent nature, rose hydrosol can help Kapha skin as it cleans pores and regulates oil production.
Their Benefits
- Rose extracts contain Geraniol, which has antiseptic properties
- Nerol is also found in roses, and it’s exceptional at soothing skin and reducing inflammation
- Flavonoids found in roses can prevent and regenerate skin damage from external factors, as they are effective antioxidants
- Vitamin K found in rose derivates helps maintain the skin´s elasticity and prevents wrinkles and fine lines
- Carotene found in roses maintains the skin´s appearance and protects it against UV radiation
Rose absolute, rosewater, and rose hydrosol are safe in most applications, as long as they are used in moderation. Always do a patch test on a small section of skin before applying them to your face and body. There are not enough studies on their side effects, but if you are allergic to roses, check with your doctor before using rose absolute, rosewater, or rose hydrosol.
Ayurvedika
You can find rose absolute in our Pitta Replenishing Moisturizer. And rose water in all our Replenishing Moisturizers and in our Nourishing Essence, as rose extracts can bring benefits to every skin type!
Rose absolute, rosewater, and rose hydrosol are a few of our organic ingredients due to their many beneficial properties, but mainly because they will make your skin great. If you don’t know your skin type, take our Dosha quiz or reach out to us and schedule a free online skin consultation, we can help you feel amazing in your own skin.