How to Make Rose Water and Rose Water Cream

Selecting the Right Roses

Roses (Rosa spp.), considered herbal shrubs, prefer full sun, rich soil, and good drainage and are generally hardy in Zones 2 to 7. Choose varieties with highly fragrant flowers; the more aromatic the petals, the more essential oil is present. The best varieties for skincare are Old Rose R. ‘Frau Dagmar Hastrup’; R. ‘Rose du Roi’; R. rugosa ‘Hansa’; damask rose (R. x damascena) varieties ‘Madame Hardy’ and ‘Rose de Rescht’; and Apothecary’s rose (R. gallica ‘Officinalis’). 

Use petals from organically grown roses. Pick them when they are just beginning to open up and are not over-aged. Roses are excellent for their humectant (moisture-retaining) quality; they preserve moisture on the skin without introducing other oily ingredients. Highly fragrant rose petals are popular for use in bath blends, spray mists, and lotions.

How to Make Rose Water

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh-picked, clean rose petals 
• 2 cups distilled water (see note at Chamomile Toner) 
• 3 tablespoons vodka (used as a preservative)

Instructions

1. Place rose petals in a cleaned and sterilized glass jar. 
2. Add water and vodka to cover completely. 
3. Gently crush petals with a wooden spoon to help release the natural oils into the liquid. 
4. Cover and place in a warm area or on a sunny windowsill. Allow to infuse for 2 weeks. 
5. Strain the petals from the water and discard or add to the compost bin. 
6. Store water in a cleaned and sterilized glass jar and use within 3 to 6 months.

How to Make Rosewater Cream

A classic lotion for fragrant skincare. Skin will glow and be moisturized with this simple cream that won’t clog pores.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons sweet almond oil
• ¾ tablespoon grated beeswax 
• 1 tablespoon rose water (purchased or homemade; see recipe above)

Sweet almond oil, made from almonds, is popular as a base oil in skincare recipes because of its skin-softening effect and the numerous nutrients that it contains. It has little to no fragrance; it will not overpower the aroma of your rose water. Use unrefined or virgin almond oil, which retain more of the beneficial nutrients.

Instructions

1. In a small pot or pan, combine oil and beeswax. Heat just until the beeswax melts. 
2. Remove from the heat and allow to cool. 
3. Stir in the rose water and mix well to combine. 
4. Store in a cleaned and sterilized glass bottle in a dark cabinet. 

To use: Apply as a scented lotion to soften dry skin and chapped lips.

By following this simple recipe, you’ll unlock the power of rose petals and create a luxurious product that’s tailored to your needs. Whether you use it as a refreshing toner, a soothing mist, or a base for other beauty creations, rose water offers a natural and effective way to nourish and revitalize your skin.

Disclaimer: Recipes and herbal information for health or skincare are for educational purposes only and are not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease. All herbal information is regarded as safe. Not all health claims made are approved or advised for use by the FDA. Even if an ingredient is in its raw, natural state, always use it with caution on sensitive and/or allergy-prone individuals, babies, and persons with medical conditions.