Rose Water for Hair: Benefits and Top 5 Products

The beautiful scent isn’t the only perk

One serum dropper with clear liquid and one dropper with pink colored liquid
Photo: Getty Images/InStyle

If you've ever smelled rose water, you'll understand why it's used in so many cosmetic products. You'll also get why lots of people love it as a natural fragrance, and even include it in beverages. But did you know that this basic water, with its intoxicatingly lovely scent, also boasts a plethora of hair care benefits?

Aside from leaving your hair smelling like you've been rolling around in a bed of roses, a rose water rinse offers a number of qualities that can assist with boosting hair health.

We spoke to a few haircare experts to find out more.

Is Rose Water Good for Your Hair?

"Rose water is amazing for the hair," says Lin Chen, co-founder of sustainable beauty brand Pink Moon. "It's hydrating, and adds moisture to damaged, dry hair 𑁋 it's especially wonderful for processed or colored hair."

If you suffer from oily scalp, dandruff, or seborrheic dermatitis, board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Marisa Garshick at MDCS Dermatology says rose water is a mild astringent with anti-inflammatory benefits that can also help to reduce oiliness.

Does Rose Water Help Hair Growth?

Yes. Because rose water is beneficial to the overall health of the scalp, it can help establish a good foundation for hair growth and help prevent hair loss. "Rose petals are also high in vitamins A, B3, C, and E, which nourishes the scalp and stimulates hair follicles, promoting hair growth," says Chen.

What Hair Types Benefit from Using Rose Water?

You may be pleased to learn that rose water is suitable for all hair types, so there's no harm in giving it a try. In terms of which hair type will benefit most, Dr. Garshick says those with oily scalp and hair can benefit from the astringent properties, while those who have dry scalp and hair can benefit from the hydrating and moisturizing properties.

Can You Make Your Own Rose Water?

Rose water is really easy to make by simmering or by distillation. As the first step for both methods, it is important to pluck the rose petals from the stems to get rid of any residue.

"To make rose water by the simmering method, add rose petals to a pot and cover the petals with distilled water, allow the water to simmer until the petals lose their color," says Dr. Garshick.

"To make rose water through distillation, place a bowl in the center of a pot and put petals and distilled water in the pot," says Dr. Garshick. "Next, cover the pot with the lid upside down and place ice cubes in the lid. Bring the pot to a boil and then allow it to simmer until the petals lose their color."

How Long Does Rose Water Last?

Rose water can last up to six months. It's best to store the solution in an airtight container or a spray bottle in the fridge to maintain freshness.

VIDEO: Everything You Need to Know About Using Rice Water on Your Natural Hair

How Should Rose Water be Applied To The Hair?

Rose water can be applied directly to the hair or the scalp in the form of shampoo, conditioner, an after-shampoo rinse or as a mist. Although the application may vary depending on whether you make your rose water at home or buy a hair product infused with rose water, the results will be very similar.

Shop Rose Water Beauty Products

01 of 05

Love Beauty and Planet Rose Water & Vitamin B3 Wavy Hair Micellar Shampoo

Love Beauty and Planet Rose Water & Vitamin B3 Wavy Hair Micellar Shampoo
COURTESY

This budget-friendly micellar shampoo is 97 percent naturally derived, containing rose water, vitamin B3, and the scent of Bulgarian rose petals. It is perfect for all hair types, however those with wavy hair will appreciate the hydrating and smoothing benefits.

02 of 05

Carols Daughter Wash Day Rose Shampoo and Conditioner

Carols Daughter Wash Day Rose Shampoo and Conditioner
COURTESY

Carol's Daughter products are specially made for natural, curly, kinky, and coily hair. This vegan shampoo is sulfate-free, which means it cleans the scalp and hair but doesn't strip it or dry it out. Blended with rose water, this shampoo has a foamy lather that removes build-up and adds shine.

03 of 05

Aveeno Rose Water & Chamomile Blend Sulfate-Free Conditioner

Aveeno Rose Water & Chamomile Blend Sulfate-Free Conditioner
COURTESY

If you have a dry, sensitive scalp or fine hair, this Aveeno shampoo will help soothe and soften. Made with rose water and chamomile, it gently cleans hair without stripping it or using harsh chemicals.

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Pantene Sulfate Free Rose Water Conditioner with Miracle Moisture Boost, Nutrient Blends

Pantene Sulfate Free Rose Water Conditioner with Miracle Moisture Boost, Nutrient Blends
COURTESY

Infused with a relaxing floral scent, this conditioner uses the hydrating properties of rose water, vitamin B5 and antioxidants to keep hair hydrated and smooth. You can also use the Pantene Rose Water Shampoo, which is sulfate-free.

05 of 05

Pink Moon Celestial Sun Brew - Rose Herbal Tea, Facial Steam & Hair Rinse

Pink moon rose water
COURTESY

Celestial Sun Brew can be used as a tea to drink, as a facial steam, and as a hair rinse! This product is loose leaf and flowers consisting of rose buds, rose hips, lemon peel, and adaptogenic holy basil. When used as a hair rinse, it helps to cleanse, nourish the scalp, prevent dandruff and promote hair growth.

From non-toxic makeup and skincare to sustainability practices, Clean Slate is an exploration of all things in the green beauty space. Find out what's really in your products — and what's being left out.

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