Use roses to hydrate skin, treat acne, and destress

Roses have much more to them than their intoxicating fragrance. From being a hydrator to being a healer, a rose and its petals have been rated highly by the wellness and beauty industries. Here, experts list some uses:

Hydration: Rose-infused water helps hydrate, re-energise and moisturise the skin, giving it a fresh look. It helps control excess oil and also maintains the skin’s pH balance (a measure of acidity or alkalinity). Containing a complex array of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, rose essential oil has excellent emollient properties for moisturising dry skin. Rosewater and lemon juice skin tonic: This tonic helps in clearing pimples and acne. Wash your face with water, followed by application of the tonic. Leave it on for 15 minutes before washing it with warm water. This is suitable for either combination skin or oily skin.

Rosewater and almonds face pack: This is considered to be an ideal pack for dry skin. A paste can be prepared by using almonds, honey and rosewater together. This facepack can be used for skin whitening.

For regular use, dip a cotton ball in rose water and clean the face. It acts as a natural toner and removes dust and dirt from the skin. This process can be repeated in the morning and night time. Rose water can also be used in bath water. It gives the skin a glow. The gentle aroma of rose removes stress and leaves one feeling refreshed.

Eye care: Rose water can alleviate eye strain. The antiseptic and anti-bacterial properties of rose water save the eyes from pollution, dust, redness and harm caused by chemicals in the make-up products that one may be accustomed to using. It can also help in preventing dark circles when mixed with milk.

Hair care: If used with shampoo on a regular basis, rose water promotes moisturisation and conditioning of hair follicles. Rose water and jojoba oil, blended together, can be applied on the hair for 10 minutes before washing. This effectively repairs damaged hair caused by curling irons or blow driers.

To get rid of frizzy hair, rosewater and aloe vera can be blended together in equal proportions. Apply it over your scalp properly. Leave it on for 30 minutes and wash.

General treatment: Rose has antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties, making it ideal for topically treating abrasions, burns and skin conditions. It has also been used to ease sore throats, fever and cough. Rose oil can also control skin diseases such as psoriasis and atopic dermatitis.

Destress: Inhaling the aroma of roses is said to be a powerful mood enhancer. It lowers the concentration of stress hormones in the body, and helps in getting rid from feelings of anxiety, thereby promoting emotional well-being and relaxation.

Anti-ageing: Use rosehip seed oil (derived from small fruits found behind the rose flower), which contains high levels of Vitamin C and is rich in oils and proteins, for skin rejuvenation.

PHOTO: ISTOCK