If there is one botanical beauty extract that has truly stood the test of time, it is rose extract. Discover the secret that makes it so special...
5000 years of history
Revered from ancient times to the present day, rose extract remains popular, and rightly so. Also known as the "Queen of Flowers," ancient Egyptians boiled roses to prepare healing balms, and incorporated rose essence into their oils to cleanse and protect the skin. Galen of Pergamum, a Roman physician, was inspired by the medicinal work of Dioscorides (father of Greek medicine) to create the first prototype of cold cream, which contained rose water, beeswax, and almond or olive oil. The resulting ointment was so successful in curing countless skin problems that Galen's Cerate remains a very popular remedy today.
But it wasn't just the Greeks, Romans, and Persians (who perfected steam distillation and initiated the commercial cultivation of roses) who were crazy about the incredible benefits of rose extract, nor was its use limited to skin remedies. Almost all of medieval Europe used rose water to wash their hands or mixed it with lead powder to create one of the first liquid makeup foundations, as fair skin was very fashionable at the time.
Rose extract in the world of modern cosmetics
Thanks to its popularity throughout history, today formulators have access to all kinds of studies conducted on rose extract, which provides them with detailed information on the safety and long-term effects of its use. This is one of the key factors why the use of this ingredient is currently widespread in modern cosmetics. Another point in its favor is the wide range of rose varieties available, almost all with different beneficial properties for the skin. But which rose extract is right for you? The key is in its name...
Rosa damascena: Rich in antioxidants, this extract is highly recommended for stressed, tired, or uneven skin.
Rosa canina: Packed with vitamin E and its derivatives, this extract helps heal burns, stretch marks, and in some cases, even eczema.
Rosa centifolia: Very aromatic and often incorporated into formulas to give them "that scent" that immediately captivates us.
Rosa gallica: Thanks to its high composition of polyphenols (more than 20%) and flavonoids, this extract is a great choice for preventing and/or improving dark circles and even for relieving tired legs.
Rosa multiflora: Very soothing, known for its use in products to treat acne or blemish-prone skin.
Where to find rose extract in your favorite Twelve Beauty products...
Damask rose extract is one of the key active ingredients in DARA’S WATER, our new non-micellar cleansing water. It boasts a super high, yet skin-safe, concentration of 20% organic rose extract, custom-made exclusively for us, to naturally regulate excessive oil production and instantly soothe even the most reactive skin. It's no wonder Dara's Water has become a must-have for many in record time!
