Rosewater has been a cosmetic ingredient that has been used for thousands of years – but you’ll find that even to this day, this charming tonic is far from obsolete in the beauty world. Species like the Damask Rose remain a popular treatment for your hair, skin and scalp.
We’ll look at why this world famous flower is one of the most sought-after treatments for hair in particular, and how you can incorporate rosewater for hair into your daily routine for maximum beauty benefits.
A History of Rosewater for Hair – and the Many Uses of Rosewater
The earliest records of rose water date back to ancient Persia, as early as the 10th century. The rose is said to have been first used by the Persian physician Avicenna, legendary for his work as an alchemist and naturalist. The production of rose water for hair and skin care eventually became widespread, when the first rose plantations appeared in Bulgaria in the 16th century.
Rose water is known for its fragrant aroma, and many even consider the scent to be highly aromatherapeutic. Rose water is much more than its fragrance. To this day, mainstream beauty companies and boutiques use this elegant flower to soothe irritated skin, prevent infections, and balance natural pH levels.
Rose is incredibly hydrating to the skin and can even soothe those who suffer from eczema and psoriasis. Additionally, the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of rosewater for hair make it a great scalp treatment and can make your hair look shiny and healthy.
Rose water for hair Vs. Hydrolat de Rose
Rose water and rose hydrosol offer similar benefits: hydration, antifungal properties and the ability to soothe irritated skin. The difference, however, lies in a matter of concentration: rose hydrosols are similar to essential oils in that they are steam distilled and highly concentrated. While rose water is also distilled, it is comparatively more diluted.
Comparing the two, rose water is a perfectly viable way to treat scalp and hair. On the other hand, rose hydrosol can often be more expensive, but offer a much more condensed supply of benefits. That being said, rose hydrosol and rose water for hair are beneficial ingredients to include in your hair care products.
Rose water for healthy hair and a healthy scalp
Too often, we treat our locks by neglecting our scalps. Many dismiss scalp care products as treatments primarily for people with dandruff, psoriasis, or periodic dryness. Rose is very beneficial for maintaining scalp health and can be effortlessly added to your daily hair care routine.
Maintaining a hydrated and healthy scalp is crucial to keeping your hair lush and shiny for the long term. Indeed, when it comes to premature aging, the scalp is just as sensitive as the rest of our skin (if not more).
Scalp aging is manifested by a diminished ability to maintain healthy follicles. When a follicle is no longer viable, it can no longer grow hair, which can lead to hair loss in both men and women. Follicles are compromised by exposure to free radicals, which are mainly caused by UV rays, pollution and stress. To make matters worse, many of us do more damage to our scalp from the products we apply to our hair, like texturizing sprays, mousses, and dry shampoos.
Rosewater, burdock, milk thistle, and coconut oil are all viable options for protecting your precious locks. Rosewater is also mildly acidic (usually pH 4-4.5), making it a great addition to the acid mantle, which is a crucial line of defense for your skin.
How to use rose water for hair
However, if you are looking for hair care already formulated with one of these powerful botanical derivatives, almost all of our 100% PURE™ hair treatments contain rose hydrosol as one of the first ingredients. For example, our Burdock & Neem Healthy Scalp Shampoo and Conditioner includes Rose Hydrosol as the second ingredient. It brings burdock to soothe the scalp and nettle to promote hair growth.
Even if scalp health isn’t your main concern when it comes to hair care, it should at least be in the background. While the ingredients in our Yuzu & Pomelo Glossing shampoo and conditioner are known to promote hair growth, thickness and shine, rose hydrosol helps maintain a healthy scalp.
Why You Should Use Rosewater Face Mist for Hair and Scalp
A rose water spray for the skin and scalp is a great way to strengthen the skin barrier and prevent water loss. Rose acts as a mild astringent to help reduce oiliness and dandruff, and you can apply it to both your hair and scalp to help reduce frizz and add shine.
Our Rosewater Face Mist is an all-in-one gem that’s perfect to use for your face as well as your hair and scalp. It contains a regenerating rose hydrosol to balance the pH, reduce redness and gently hydrate. It also contains hyaluronic acid, which is recommended for all hair types. Hyaluronic acid helps hair follicles retain moisture, reduces frizz, helps hydrate dry, flaky areas, and can add volume to your hair.
Whether you choose to use rose hydrosol or rose water for hair, you are sure to reap the benefits. Despite its delicate scent, the rose is a powerful plant to have in your hair care arsenal: not only does it hydrate the hair and scalp, but it can support your hair’s long-term well-being.
