The glamour of roses does not only take place on Valentine’s Day or on special occasions. Unless you’re allergic to strong smells, most women enjoy receiving a bouquet of roses. It brings a smile to our faces and joy to our hearts. Unfortunately, no amount of care will prevent the inevitable. Do you know what I’m talking about? That dreaded day when we have to throw them out because the leaves have wilted and start to fall off.
But what if I told you that those blooms need not be thrown out. According to science, they have beneficial physical effects as well. The petals can be used to make rose water which contains antibacterial properties. The best part is that it’s suitable for all skin types.
Instead of reaching for the store-bought version, why not make it yourself with these 5 simple steps.
Items You Will Need:
- One cup of clean rose petals (organic if possible)
- 2 cups Distilled water
- Glass bowl
- Glass jar with cover
- Saucepan with lid
- Fine mesh strainer
Step #1
Rose petals should be free from any form of chemicals. Remove the rose blossoms from the stems and carefully rinse them in cool water.
Step #2
Boil 2 cups of Distilled water in a saucepan. Add the glass bowl with rose petals to the pan. Spread them around to make sure they are evenly distributed.
Step #3
Set the heat to low and cover your pan with a lid. Do not bring it to a boil as too much heat will destroy the color and lose its vital properties. Once the petals turn pale and the liquid becomes pink, remove it from heat.
Step #4
Use the strainer to separate the petals from the liquid. Pour the rose water into the glass jar and cover it. This prevents any harmful substances from being mixed into it.
Step #5
Once the rose water cools you can store it in the fridge to preserve its freshness.
Common Uses For Rose Water
Makeup Remover
Mix a few drops of coconut oil with rose water. Dab a cotton swab into the mixture and use it to remove your makeup. It works well to nourish the skin.
Minimizes Excess Oil
Mix Aztec Secret Healing Clay (powder) with rose water to make a smooth paste. Apply the mixture to your face. Leave on for 20 minutes and then rinse off. If you have oily skin do this 2 to 3 times a week to control excess oil.
Diminishes Puffy Eyes
Soak a cotton pad in chilled rose water and apply it to your tired eyes. It will help reduce inflammation.
Shampoo
Dilute the shampoo with some rose water. Apply it to your hair then rinse as usual.
Hair Conditioner
After the final rinse, apply 1 cup of rose water to your hair. This will keep hair strands shiny and nicely conditioned.
Damaged Hair Treatment
Apply to wet hair and scalp. Massage and let sit for 10 minutes. You can then shampoo and rinse.
Frizz Control
Add rose water to a spray bottle and mist onto hair to decrease frizz. Also adds a nice scent.
Note: If kept in the fridge, rose water can last for up to 6 months.