Rosa Damascena Flower Water

Fragrant solution obtained from the flowers of the damask rose

Poses a risk of irritation to skin due to its volatile compounds

May also be referred to simply as rose water

Claims such as calming redness and reducing acne have not been proven to be true

Rosa damascena flower water is an aqueous solution obtained from the flowers of the damask rose via steam distillation. Its reported cosmetic functions are as a fragrance ingredient and skin conditioning agent.

Due to its volatile fragrant compounds, this flower water poses a risk of irritation to skin (although it’s slightly less concerning than the more concentrated essential oil form). While you may not immediately see or feel the effects, if Rosa damascena flower water is included in high enough concentration to emit its floral scent, it poses a risk to the health of skin below the surface.

Rosa damascena flower water may also be referred to simply as rose water or rosewater. Skin care companies make lofty promises for rose water, claiming it can do everything from reducing acne to soothing redness. Research, however, has not proven this to be true.

While some suppliers of Rosa damascena flower water suggest using up to 10% concentration, the safety assessment by the independent Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel tops out at a 1.9% maximum.