7 ways you can use rose water

Rose water has been used in beauty for thousands of years. Cleopatra in ancient Egypt, used it to keep her skin supple and glowing. Today, it is known for soothing and cooling the skin. Rose water is basically water scented with or infused with rose petals.

You can buy it from health food shops or pharmacies. However, you can make your own by steeping rose petals in distilled water. If you do make your own, use organic roses that are free from pesticides. Homemade rose water will last for about two weeks in the fridge.

Rose water has many benefits for the skin and is suitable for all skin types.

Here are seven ways you can use rose water

 Skin freshener

Rose water makes an excellent facial mist that can be used by all skin types. Put some rose water in a small spray bottle and spritz on your face when needed. On a hot day, a few spritz’s of rose water will help to hydrate your skin giving it a nice glow. You can also use it on top of makeup to freshen it up.

Skin soother/toner

Rose water has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties therefore it benefits people with sensitive skin, and those suffering from acne. Use it as a toner to calm irritated skin and to hydrate dry skin. Rose water also balances the skin and tightens pores making them appear smaller.

 Aftershave treatment

After shaving, spray or dab rose water to calm the skin. For men, you may mix some rose water with vodka and a few drops of rose oil, to make an aftershave treatment.

 Bath additive

Adding some rose water to your bath has a therapeutic effect on your mind and body. It smells nice thereby relaxing you, and it helps ease anxiety. Add two cups to a hot steaming bath and then breath deeply to take in the scent. Rose water will leave your skin feeling softer and pampered.

Reduce eye-bags

Rose water can be used to reduce swelling and water retention around the eyes. Soak cotton pads in cold rose water by placing them in the freezer for about 30 minutes. Place the cotton pads over your eyes for about 10 minutes.

Soothe sunburn

Mix some rose water with a little aloe vera juice and store in the fridge. This treatment makes a soothing after sun lotion that calms irritated or burnt skin.

 Pillow spray

Spritz your pillow with a little rose water mixed with lavender essential oil. It will relax you and help you drift off to sleep.

Did you know that you can also add rose water to your cocktails or lemonade to give it an exotic twist. It can also be used when wiping baby’s diaper area.