Humans and roses are involved in an enduring love affair. We love to use rose water, especially, in beauty products, perfumes, and even in cooking — mainly in Middle Eastern recipes. Rose water is made by steeping or steam-distilling rose petals in water in order to isolate the plant’s essential oils. Rose water is a natural but gentle astringent that can soothe irritated skin and scalp. It naturally conditions and moisturizers because it is rich in flavonoids and vitamins A, B3, C, D, and E. The sugars in the rose petals add to the rose water’s calming effects.
Rose water has been said to stabilize hair’s pH balance because its pH is similar to that of hair. Some say it can aid in repairing hair’s damaged porosity. It acts as an anti-inflammatory, and with its natural antiseptic properties, it can reduce or lessen dandruff caused by fungal infections. Some even believe it promotes hair growth. It is thought to have stimulating properties.
How to incorporate rose water into your hair care regimen
Rose water can be used in shampoos, conditioners, or just in a spray bottle or spritzer. It is completely up to you because there are several ways to benefit from the amazing water. We’ll tell you about some great ways to get rose water into your hair care regimen, but first let’s show you an easy way to make it.
Rose water recipe
- 1 cup of firmly packed rose petals
- 2 cups of distilled water
Choose roses that are free from chemicals and pesticides, so try a farmer’s market or a florist but ask if they are free of pesticides. If you are not sure if they are grown organically, then rinse the petals in cool water. If harvesting from your own garden, pick them first thing in the morning when covered with morning dew. Make sure to wash them of dirt and bugs.
Remove rose petals and place in a glass bowl. Boil two cups of distilled water and pour water over rose petals. Cover and let steep for 30 minutes. Use cheesecloth or cotton gauze to strain the mixture into another glass bowl and then transfer it into glass bottles using a clean funnel. Store in the fridge and the rose water will last a week.
Shampoo
This is probably the simplest way to use rose water in your hair care regimen. You can dilute your regular shampoo with rose water and wash as normal.
After-shampoo rinse
Take one cup of rose water and use as a final rinse (just like a tea rinse”> and do not rinse out. It will condition, add shine, and leave an amazing scent on your hair.
Rose water treatment for damaged hair
- 1 cup of rose water
- Few drops of jojoba oil
- 1 capsule of vitamin E
Mix ingredients together and apply to wet hair and scalp. Massage for at least 10 minutes and then shampoo and style as usual.
Do you use rose water for your hair? Share you experiences in the comments area, below. And learn about the healing power of another flower, blue malva, here.
