The Old-School Skin Care Tonic With OMG Results

This beauty treatment dates back to Biblical times—and has modern skin care junkies obsessed.

Published July 21, 2025

Simone Noronha

What old-time beauty rituals do you rely on? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Your mother’s beauty regimen from back in the day might’ve included a modern-day favorite: rose water.

A millennia-old beauty staple, rose water (made by steaming rose petals in water) is a simple yet powerful ingredient that seemingly does it all, and beauty brands know it. It’s no wonder there’s been a rose water resurgence in recent years, as it’s used in everything from facial toners and moisturizers to hair mists and conditioners. But is it worth the hype? It turns out that this oldie but goodie might be the one thing you didn’t know you needed.

Consult with a medical professional before adding new products to your routine.

Beauty Benefits of Rose Water for Skin and Hair

Whether you’ve noticed more rose water products on store shelves or you remember seeing them on your mama’s vanity, rose water is tried and true and here to stay. Read on for ways to make the most of this mighty ingredient:

Improve overall skin health

According to a 2018 Food Science & Nutrition study, rose contains anti-inflammatory properties that may help calm skin inflammation. A 2021 Biomolecules article suggests that rose’s antibacterial effects might keep acne at bay. And thanks to its antioxidant and rejuvenating benefits, rose could enhance your complexion and reduce wrinkles, according to a 2023 Heliyon article.

Amplify hydration

With age comes drier skin, and rose water can deliver significant hydration. And since rose water’s pH is similar to your skin’s natural pH (research shows that skincare products with a pH of 4.0 to 5.0 may be beneficial), it’s a great way to keep your pH balance in check. As a result, your skin can maintain just the right amount of hydration. Consider trying a toner like Buttah Skin’s AHA/BHA Rosewater Toner (Macy’s, $21) or Dickinson’s Hydrating Toner with Rose Water (Walmart, $5.87) for a moisture boost. You can also try a gentle face wash such as Heritage Store’s Rosewater Cleanser (heritagestore.com, $14.49) or Bambu Earth’s Rosewater Cleanser (bambuearth.com, $24).

Prime and set makeup

We love a dual-purpose product! If you want to simplify your makeup routine by eliminating a few steps, a rose water facial mist might save you time and coin. It can replace your primer, which enhances your makeup application, and it’s often used as a setting spray for longer-lasting results. Consider taking it with you on the go to keep your makeup looking fresh throughout the day. You can also spray rose water on your makeup brushes for a smoother blend. Check out Vie Beauty’s 30ROSES Hydrating Rose Water (theviebeauty.com, $40) or Fresh’s Rose Hydration Pore-Minimizing Mist (Nordstrom, $27).

Remove makeup

We weren’t kidding about rose water’s versatility. It can prep and set a fabulous makeup look and serve as a makeup remover—a more sustainable option than regular makeup wipes. Opt for products like Garnier’s SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water with Rose Water (CVS, $11.99) or Herbivore’s Pink Cloud Rosewater + Squalane Makeup Removing Face Wash (Sephora, $26).

Revive curls

Seeing more rose water-infused hair products lately? Well, it’s for good reason. Reach for rose water midweek when your curls are in need of a moisture boost. Dirty scalp? As a gentle astringent, rose water can remove excess oil, leaving your scalp feeling refreshed. If you’re dealing with dry, itchy scalp, rose water’s anti-inflammatory benefits can help calm irritation. Consider trying tgin’s Rose Water Curl Refresher (Ulta, $10.99) or Christophe Robin’s Instant Volumizing Leave-in Mist with Rose Water (christopherobin.com, $39).

Prices are subject to change.

What old-time beauty rituals do you rely on? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Anissa Gabbara is a Michigan-based freelance writer who enjoys the beauty, health, lifestyle, and pop culture space. In addition to Sisters, she has contributed to Sesi magazine, and Maple City Our Town. She is also an experienced PR and marketing professional.