If there’s one botanical skincare ingredient that has truly stood the test of time it’s rose extract. Discover all you need to know about rose extract’s secret staying power…
A 5000-year-old skincare remedy
Revered in many old-world cultures right up to the present day, rose extract’s fame shows no sign of waning. Also known as the ‘Queen of Flowers’, ancient Egyptians would not only boil down roses to make healing salves but they would also infuse rose scent in their oils to cleanse and protect their skin. Galen of Pergamon, a Roman physician, was inspired by the earlier medical knowledge of the Greek, Dioscorides, to create the first cold cream prototype which contained rose water, beeswax, and either almond or olive oil. The resulting ointment was so successful at remedying a variety of skin complaints that Galenus Cold Cream or Galen’s Cerate is still popular today.
But it wasn’t just the Greeks, Romans and Persians (credited for perfecting steam distillation and initiating the commercial cultivation of roses) who were in love with the fantastic skin-benefits of rose extract, nor were its uses confined to just skin remedies. Virtually everyone in Medieval Europe was using rose water to either cleanse their hands or mix with lead powder to create a sort of precursor to liquid foundation, as pale skin was very stylish at the time.
Rose extract in the modern beauty world
Thanks to its popularity, we currently have access to research undertaken throughout history, providing in depth information regarding its safety and long-term effects. This is one of the key factors as to why rose extract has remained a steadfast beauty stalwart. Another point in its favour is the vast array of sub-species available, most of which offer amazing skin-benefits. So, which rose extract should you choose? The key lies in the name…
Rosa damascena: Rich in antioxidants, this extract is highly recommended for stressed, tired and uneven skin.
Rosa canina: Boasting a hefty dose of vitamin E and its derivates, this extract helps to heal burned skin, stretch marks and in some cases, even eczema.
Rosa centifolia: Very aromatic and often infused in formulas for “that gorgeous smell” which keeps us going back for more.
Rosa gallica: With a composition high in polyphenols (over 20%) and flavonoids, this extract is a great choice to prevent and improve dark circles under the eyes and even to relieve tired legs.
Rosa multiflora: Very soothing, known to be used in products for treating acne or blemish-prone skin.
Where to find rose extract in your Twelve Beauty products…
Rosa damascena, or Damask Rose, is one of the hero ingredients of DARA’S WATER, our new non-micellar cleansing water. We use a super high, yet skin-friendly concentration of 20% organic rose water, freshly distilled exclusively for us, to help naturally regulate out-of-balance sebum production and instantly calm reactive skin. It’s no wonder Dara’s Water has been such a hit with all the sensitive souls out there!
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