Roses don't just make beautiful bouquets on Valentine's day. Did you know that the oil found in the romantic flower has been said to have many benefits when it comes to our skin?
From combatting the signs of aging with its anti-aging properties, to healing scars and moisturising the skin, rose oil has become a very trendy addition to many women's beauty regime and skincare routine, but does it really work?
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What is rose oil?
The oil used in rose oil beauty products is extracted from the petals of Rosa damascena. You may have heard of rosehip oil too. This is very different to rose oil as rosehip oil (or rosehip seed oil) is extracted from the seeds of a rose bush and is often a more gentle alternative to rose oil.
You may have also heard of rose water for face skincare too. This is derived from the petals and stem of rose plants. There are many benefits of rose water. Applying rose water improves the hydration of skin, and helps stabilise the ph balance of irritated skin, reducing inflammation and redness. Rose water can also be used as a mild, natural fragrance as an alternative to harsh perfumes. It's probably best for those with a sensitive skin type to chat with a dermatologist or GP before using any essential oil products.
The benefits of rose oil
For face skin - It's been said that rose facial oil can help to heal scars, moisturise skin, fight inflammation with it's anti inflammatory properties, help dark spots by evening out skin tone, relieve stress, fight acne and promote circulation. It also easily absorbs into the skin making it easy to apply.
Eases pain - There have been a number of studies that suggest that rose oil can ease pain, including menstrual pain. Researchers think this may be down to the rose oil helping release the endorphins or 'feel-good' hormones. This is why it's often used for aromatherapy purposes.
Decreases anxiety and stress - Onestudy has claimed that rose oil can slow down the heart rate and help calm us down. This has even been used to help women stay calm during labour.
Stimulate sex drive - Some studies have claimed that rose oil can increase sexual desire, especially in men.
Ways to use rose oil
Rose oil is highly potent so however you intend to use it, it's important to dilute it or buy a formula that is diluted for you.
Rose oil for face - add a few drops of your diluted solution to your daily moisturiser or massage a few drops into the skin.
In the bath - add a few drops into your bath to relax you.
For hair - massage it into your scalp to help strengthen your hair at the roots
Pulse points - rub onto pulse points to help relax you and lift your mood if you're feeling stressed or anxious.
Also look out for rose oil included in face mask ingredients or as a face mist. Some makeup remover products also use rose oil or rose water for the many skin benefits this natural product provides.
Read more: The best shampoos for thicker hair
Safety tips
Any essential oils can be highly potent, so it's best to buy a pre diluted formula if you're wanting to use it on your face or in your beauty regime.
If you're buying it as an essential oil for a diffuser, you only need a tiny amount diluted in water to diffuse. Be careful when you are smelling the oil too as inhaling too much can cause headaches.
Never apply it directly to the skin without diluting it in a moisturiser or body oil.
Keep away from young children and pets as it may be toxic to them.
The best rose oil to buy
Here are some of the best skincare products containing rose oil to buy.
Just so you know, whilst we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this page, we never allow this to influence product selections.
Rose oil for face
www.facetheory.com
www.hollandandbarrett.com
www.lookfantastic.com
Rose oil for bath
www.johnlewis.com
www.nealsyardremedies.com
Rose oil for relieving stress
www.bloomremedies.co.uk
trilogyproducts.co.uk
www.iamfy.co
Rose oil for hair
www.hollandandbarrett.com
www.lookfantastic.com