Why Make Your Own Rose Water?
If you’re ready to ditch synthetic ingredients and treat your skin to something simple and effective, homemade rose water is the perfect swap. It’s budget-friendly, preservative-free, and packed with all the soothing, anti-aging benefits of real rose petals—without mystery chemicals or artificial fragrance.
In this post, I’m sharing two easy DIY recipes:
– One for mature or sensitive skin (my go-to)
– One for oily or acne-prone skin, made with rose-infused witch hazel
Both are gentle, non-toxic, and made with real-life skin in mind.
A Little Rose Petal Wisdom
Used for centuries in traditional beauty rituals, rose petals aren’t just romantic—they’re powerful. They naturally contain:
- Anti-inflammatory compounds that calm redness and irritation
- Antioxidants that help protect against premature aging
- Gentle astringents that tone and balance the skin
- A beautifully subtle aroma that supports emotional calm and relaxation
From ancient Persia to Victorian vanity tables, rose water has been treasured for its ability to nourish skin and lift the mood—and now you can make your own with just a few natural ingredients and no synthetic junk.
DIY Rose Hydrosol Recipe (For Mature, Dry, or Sensitive Skin)
This is the version I personally use every day—morning and night—as a gentle, hydrating toner before applying my serum or face oil. While it’s technically a rose hydrosol, you don’t need any fancy equipment. I made it using a simple DIY method with a pot, a bowl, and some ice right on my stovetop.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried organic rose petals
- 3 cups distilled water
- Large pot with lid
- Small heat-safe bowl (fits inside pot)
- Ice
- Amber glass spray bottle (4 oz)
Affiliate Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you. I only share what I use and love.
Instructions:
- Place a small bowl inside your large pot (this will collect your hydrosol).
- Add rose petals around the bowl, then pour in 3 cups distilled water—enough to cover the petals but not overflow the bowl.
- Cover the pot with the lid upside-down, and add a few handfuls of ice on top.
- Turn heat to low and let simmer gently for 25–30 minutes, replacing ice as needed.
- Carefully remove and pour the hydrosol into a clean, amber 4 oz spray bottle.
- Store in the refrigerator and use within 4–6 weeks.
How to Use Rose Hydrosol:
- Spritz on clean skin AM + PM
- Layer under facial oils, serums, or moisturizers
- Refresh makeup or post-sun skin
- Mix into clay masks or DIY creams
Optional DIY: Rose-Infused Witch Hazel Toner (For Oily or Acne-Prone Skin)
While my skin leans dry and sensitive, this recipe is a great alternative if you’re dealing with excess oil, breakouts, or clogged pores. It combines the clarifying power of alcohol-free witch hazel with the soothing properties of rose.
I don’t use this version myself, but I’ve made it for my teenage athletes—because sweaty practices, baseball hats, and hormonal skin don’t exactly play nice. It’s a gentle, non-toxic toner they can swipe on after showers or workouts without all the harsh ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup dried organic rose petals
- 1 cup alcohol-free witch hazel
- Optional: 1 tsp aloe vera juice, 1 tsp glycerin, 2–3 drops lavender essential oil
- Mason jar + amber spray bottle
Instructions:
- Add rose petals to a clean glass jar and pour in witch hazel until fully covered.
- Seal and steep in a dark place for 1–2 weeks, shaking daily.
- Strain and transfer to a clean spray bottle.
- Store in a cabinet or fridge. Use within 2–3 months.
Skin Benefits Breakdown
| Recipe | Best For | Skin Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Rose Hydrosol | Mature, dry, sensitive | Hydrates, soothes, softens, reduces inflammation |
| Rose Witch Hazel Toner | Oily, acne-prone, combo | Clarifies pores, tones, reduces breakouts |
🛒 Shop My Rose Water Must-Haves:
- Organic Dried Rose Petals – Food Grade
- 4 oz Amber Glass Spray Bottles
- Alcohol-Free Witch Hazel Toner
You don’t need fancy tools or expensive products to care for your skin—just a few clean ingredients, a stovetop, and a little intention. Whether you’re calming dry, mature skin or dealing with moody hormones (yours or your teens’), one of these rose water recipes might just earn a permanent spot in your fridge.
It’s simple, soothing, and refreshingly natural.
Tag me if you give it a try—I’d love to see how yours turns out.
xo Marla Kay
Reader Favorites You’ll Love Next:
My Everyday Tallow Cream Routine – Teen & Mom Approved
DIY Magnesium Lotion for Deep Sleep & Muscle Relief