10 Rose Water Benefits for Your Skin, Hair & Body

Forget about just smelling the roses—why not use them in your daily routine? From skincare to food, rose water has been around for centuries as a natural alternative to cleansers, perfumes and more. Its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antioxidant properties make it a major player when it comes to improving your health, hair and skin. Here are 10 rose water benefits you should know, including all of the ways to use it.

Whether you’re dealing with sensitive skin, rosacea or other irritations, chances are rose water can ease the discomfort. The anti-inflammatory properties like vitamin A and C help hydrate and soften the skin while reducing any redness and removing the build-up of oil and dirt. It’s especially helpful for those suffering from eczema and rosacea.

We mentioned how it helps reduce redness, but it can also help reduce acne and improve your appearance. From tightening pores to smoothing fine lines and wrinkles, the antioxidants (aka vitamin C and E) and anti-aging properties (with a low pH of 5.5) gives an extra boost of moisture to your skin (and who doesn’t want some moisture?). Let the natural beauty product hydrate and revitalize, while keeping your skin looking and feeling healthy. A spray a day can keep dry areas away.

A coughing fit is no fun and an inflamed throat is even worse. Add a few drops of rosewater to your favorite drink (or drink it alone) to ease lung stress, open up the airways and calm your sore throat. Native American tribes have used this trick for many years as a cough remedy. 

It’s antiseptic and antibacterial properties work to heal cuts, scars or burns. In fact, daily use can help speed up the healing process and clean out any lingering infections. Rose water can also be used to treat eye problems such as conjunctivitis, dry eye and cataracts. Apply it as an alternative to eye drops to alleviate any pain.

Rose water’s antidepressant, anti-anxiety and analgesic properties can help you relax and destress. A 2016 study found that smelling rose water can reduce anxiety and send calming signals to the brain. So whether you’re misting it directly onto your face or adding it into your tea, the natural remedy is the daily pick-me-up you need.

Forget your favorite CBD oil—rose water can help ease you into sleep and keep you that way. Certified sleep science coach explained to Healthline that the olfactory nerve (located within your head and is responsible for your sense of smell) sends signals to the part of the brain that controls your mood and emotions. Basically your own mental alarm clock to notify you its time for some much-needed beauty sleep. Add some rosewater to your night tea (or spray some on your pillows) and say goodbye to restless nights. 

Sometimes used in aromatherapy, the de-stressing effects can help soothe any pesky headaches. Just soak a washcloth in rosewater, warm it in the microwave and press the towel to your head for 45 minutes.

No one enjoys stomach pains or menstrual cramps. Studies show that high antioxidants found in rose water can help alleviate any discomfort and act as a mild laxative. Drink some rosewater and let it relieve any bloating, constipation or any other digestive issues.

Rose water works to de-frizz and strengthens hair. Its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties can also help treat scalp conditions (like eczema and psoriasis), get rid of dandruff and reduce oiliness. So if you have frizzy, damaged or dry locks, add several drops of rose water to your hair products or spray some directly on problem areas for some much-needed hydration and shine.

The natural beauty product can also serve as a great mouthwash alternative. The anti-inflammatory properties help strengthen gums and improve overall oral health. It can also reduce any pains due to ulcers, canker sores or other dental issues. Swish some around in your mouth daily for best results.

Now that you’re caught up with the benefits, here are a few more ways to use it in your daily routine. (And FYI, you can even make your own right at home.)

1. Add to any hair or skincare product. Combine rose water with your fave beauty product like toners, cleanser or conditioner. Apply it to clean skin or hair and continue your routine like normal for hydrating skin. It can also be a makeup remover when you add it with coconut oil.
2. Create an on-the-go facial mist. Need a pick-me-up? Just fill up a spray bottle and spritz on your face whenever you need to wake up your skin throughout the day.
3. Include it in your meals. Whether you’re adding it to a cup of tea or cooking a lamb stew, rose water can be a staple in your food.
4. Make anything and everything smell like roses. Whether you’re spritzing on linens or on yourself, the calming floral scent will keep your space smelling fresh.