Get over rose water! 5 ways rose petals can give you a glowing skin

Lord Vishnu’s favourite flower and a symbol of romance, the rose is widely loved for its vibrant color and enchanting fragrance. Known as the symbol of beauty for ages, this pretty flower has innumerable benefits for the skin.

History tells us that it has been an inseparable part of timeless beauty regimes. Mughal beauty Nur Jahan is known to be smitten not only by the looks of this flower but its miracles on the skin. To an extent, she got her own personalised rosewater crafted for her royal beauty regime. How fancy! But we millennials and Gen-Z still spritz our faces with rose water following the age-old beauty tip.

While rose water must have been a staple in your beauty pantry, have you tried rose petals for skin care benefits? If not, you’re missing out on a lot! As pleasing as roses are to the eyes, their petals are as effective in giving you that rosy glow. The calming and soothing effect of the petals can work wonders for your face.

Dr Ipsita Chatterjee, Ayurveda Expert and Technical Head, SoulTree, spoke to HealthShots about the skincare benefits of rose petals and how to include them in your skincare regime.

“Roses have played a stellar role in various Ayurvedic concoctions for thousands of years. The natural oils found in roses help retain moisture in the skin, making it soft and smooth. The sugars in rose petals significantly benefit those with sensitive skin. Rose oil contains citronellol, eugenol, farnesol and many other components that contribute to the overall health of your skin and body in different ways.” says, Dr Chatterjee.

So, here are some amazing ways to reap the beauty benefits of rose:

1. Rose petals acne soothing facepack:

The antibacterial properties of this wonder flower prevents acne but also skin infections. From the redness caused by acne to soothing your skin, rose petals can bring relief as well as aid recovery. Here’s a DIY facepack you can try:

• Crush some rose petals in a mortar and pestle.Mix a spoonful of sandalwood powder to it.
• Add a few drops of honey to the mix.
• If thick, dilute it using some rose water.
• Apply on your face for 15 minutes and wash with lukewarm water.
• Your skin will immediately feel fresh and the redness due to acne and pimples will subside.

2. Rose petals de-tanning scrub

Rose petals can help you achieve even toned skin with regular use.Try this home remedy for uneven skin color and pigmentation:

• Take a bowl and squeeze a lemon
• Add some crushed rose petals in it
• Add half tsp honey and brown sugar to it
• Apply the mix to your face and body and scrub in gentle motions. It will help in lightening the pigmentation and give a rosy glow to your skin.

3. A rose petal toning mist

Dr Chatterjee suggests making a toning mist using fresh rose petals. Roses have soothing qualities that can help you to maintain your skin’s pH balance.

• Crush some fresh rose petals.
• Add some rose water to ease the process.
• Strain the rosy liquid into a spray bottle.
• Spray your face with it to detoxify skin, unclog and tighten your facial pores.

4. Rose petal lip and skin salve

This rose petal remedy is winter appropriate. In winter, your skin demands extra moisture and hydration. This DIY rose petal salve suggested by Dr Chatterjee can be your problem solver.

• Pound freshly plucked rose petals with pure milk.
• Add a teaspoon of honey and fresh cream.
• This mix can be used as a salve to soothe your dry skin and chapped lips.
• If you’re feeling a little fancy, you can add almond flakes and use the same balm as a gentle lip and skin exfoliator.

5. Rose-infused facial oil

To up your winter skincare game, facial oil could be a good addition. Try this expert-approved rose flower oil to infuse new life to your parched skin.

• Add crushed rose petals to a bottle.
• Pour 4 tbsp of sweet almond oil in it.
• Keep it bottled under the sun for 11 days.
• Use it as a hydrating and fragrant bath and body oil.

We all know that antioxidants do good for your skin. The ones roses are packed with are no exception.

Moreover, a study titled Pharmacological Effects of Rosa Damascena on PubMed Central notes that rose has antimicrobial as well as antioxidant properties.

The study states: “The medicinal functions of Rosaceae are partly attributed to their abundance of phenolics compounds. Phenolics possess a wide range of pharmacological activities, such as antioxidants, free-radical scavengers, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antimutagenic, and antidepressants.”

If you’re somebody who believes in holistic beauty and is always skeptical of using a chemical product on her face, rose petals can be your skincare buddies.

Buy yourself some deeply coloured, fragrant rose flowers, draw a bath, add your favourite bath salt and some rose petals for a luxurious feel. Enjoy a mood uplifting evening after a long day at work. And, don’t forget to follow these rose beauty remedies. The results will leave you amazed!