Best Organic Rose Waters & Sprays of 2021

PUBLISHED: 03/13/2019 | UPDATED: 1/17/2020

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WRITTEN BY: TAMRYN BURGESS
Licensed Aesthetician

This article has been medically reviewed by Dr. Mira Herman.

This article may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy for more details. To learn more about how we selected the products featured on this list, check out our product review & research standards.

In ancient times, roses were the ultimate display of opulence and beauty, and, as the centuries went on, royals began to make use of the flower for their skin-beautifying treatments (1). It’s no surprise that today, roses are a staple ingredient in luxury skincare. However, is there any truth behind the claims about this intoxicating bloom? Do you have to spend a fortune to reap the benefits of this highly-coveted ingredient in your skincare routine? In this article, we’ll discuss the scientifically-proven benefits of rose water and share some of our favorite organic rose water products.

Where Does Organic Rosewater Come From?
Organic rose water is traditionally extracted from the Damask Rose which is also known as Rosa Damascena (although wild rose (rosa canina) and cabbage rose (rosa centifolia) are two other commonly found roses used to make rose water). Although Rosa Damascena can be cultivated worldwide, the two main producers of the flower are located in Bulgaria and Turkey; however, producers can also be found in Egypt, Morocco, France, and Russia. Experts agree, organic Bulgarian rose water is the preferred ingredient amongst organic skincare formulators.

How is Organic Rose Water Made?
To make rose water, organic roses are first harvested by hand. The highest quality organic rose waters are made from roses that were picked just after blossoming in the morning, but before the harsh afternoon sun dries up the moisture from the petals. From there, the oil and essence of petals are extracted in one of two methods: simmering or distillation. Simmering is the easiest and often most preferred for DIY projects. Dried or fresh rose petals are gently boiled in a pot of water until small amounts of oil and color from the petals are extracted. This water is then cooled and stored. While simmering may be easier, distillation is the most preferred and widely-used method of extraction for commercial rose waters. Fresh petals are placed in a distiller where steam gently extracts the precious oils and water from the plant. Dr. Mira Herman, Founder of Rose Mira Organics, mentions that “Some voices in the industry are of the opinion that “real” rose hydrosol is produced by steam distillation of fresh rose petals in a special process of repeated distillation intended specifically to become rose water, rather than as a by-product of essential oil distillation.”

Benefits of Using Organic Rose Water

Rose is cooling and mildly astringent. It is effective in masks, steams and compresses. It’s also beneficial for those suffering from environmental or chemical sensitivities. Rose has an affinity with the heart, and regardless of the form in which it is used (be it a hydrosol vs essential oil or applied externally vs taken internally) it promotes emotional balance and uplifts the spirit.  – Dr. Mira Herman, DC

A well-formulated organic rose water toner, cleanser, or moisturizer has the ability to transform your skin in many ways. Its nourishing and soothing properties work wonders for dry, inflamed, or itchy skin by maintaining the skin’s hydration levels. Of course, there are many factors that contribute to dry skin; one of the most prevalent being transdermal water loss  which can be exacerbated by stress (2). A natural hydrator and brimming with antioxidant properties, rose essential oil (10-50% in rose water) has shown to inhibit stress, thus strengthening the skin’s barrier function; which when working well, prevents water loss at a cellular and transdermal level (3). Although essential oils of Rosa Damascena are considered to have more potent moisturizing benefits, rose water has been shown to exhibit antibacterial properties against certain organisms as well as healing properties for open scars, cuts, or wounds (4).

Finding a High-Quality Organic Rose Water
As with all good skincare products, the effectiveness of rose water is determined by the formulation. There are many factors to consider such as the purity (extraction method used), quality of the roses (fresh vs dried), region where the roses come from (contributes to the characteristics), and whether any additives or fillers were used during the extraction and production process.

Unfortunately, it is common practice in the beauty industry for skincare brands (yes even organic brands!) to cut corners and settle for low quality, lab-prepared, and heavily-diluted versions of rose water, which can irritate your skin. With that in mind, we set out to find truly organic rose water products that are free from Sulfates, Parabens, Phthalates, Petrochemicals + Mineral Oils, Synthetic Fragrances + Dyes, PEG compounds, Ethoxylated Ingredients, and Synthetic Rose Oils. As you’ll see, the ones that made the cut contain the purest form of rose water we could find. You’ll find options you can use as a gentle and refreshing facial mist, organic toner, and there’s even rose water in the list so pure it’s edible! Enjoy!

1. SIMPLIFIED SKIN – ROSE WATER

SIMPLIFIED SKIN – ROSE WATER | $12.95 |
Ethics : 100% Natural, GMO-Free, Cruelty Free, Gluten Free, Vegan
Price : $12.95

Crafted from organic Bulgarian rose petal water, this refreshing mist toner is sure to be a staple in your care routine because of its versatility. Regardless of your skin type, its anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties help to balance pH, tone, hydrate, and control excess oil. Once you've combated the skin's redness, simply spritz it on your hair to treat heat damage or to condition your locks for shiner hair -- you can even use it to set (or gently remove) your makeup.

Shop SIMPLIFIED SKIN – ROSE WATER

2. *ALTEYA ORGANICS – CERTIFIED ORGANIC BULGARIAN ROSE WATER

*ALTEYA ORGANICS – CERTIFIED ORGANIC BULGARIAN ROSE WATER | $16.65 |
Ethics : 100% Natural, GMO-Free, Cruelty Free, Gluten Free, Vegan
Price : $16.65

Alteya has decades of experience as one of the highest quality rose water producers in the world. This certified organic Bulgarian Rose water is 100% organically grown and harvested from Alteya’s family farm in the Bulgarian Rose Valley. It contains just 100% steam distilled rose flower hydrosol. It can be used for aromatherapy, hair care, skincare and even cooking! As a standalone toner, this organic rose water is ideal for anti-aging, moisturizing, acne, and reducing inflammation.

Shop *ALTEYA ORGANICS – CERTIFIED ORGANIC BULGARIAN ROSE WATER

3. *AMALA – REPLENISHING ORGANIC ROSEWATER MOISTURE MIST

*AMALA – REPLENISHING ORGANIC ROSEWATER MOISTURE MIST | $56 |
Ethics : 100% Natural, GMO-Free, Cruelty Free, Gluten Free, Vegan
Price : $56

Frankly one of the BEST organic rosewater toners we've tried. Clinically proven in third party trials to increase skin hydration levels for a full 8 hours, this toner is a god-send for dry mature skin. It's packed with some incredible (and rare) ingredients like Amala's signature Yerba Santa pre+probiotic blend, a natural mineral blend to protect skin, flax seed extract to soothe skin, and, of course, organic rose flower water (the first ingredient!). A dry skin savior, but truly noteworthy for all skin types.

Shop *AMALA – REPLENISHING ORGANIC ROSEWATER MOISTURE MIST

4. *SW BASICS – PURE ORGANIC ROSE WATER SPRAY

*SW BASICS – PURE ORGANIC ROSE WATER SPRAY | $13 |
Ethics : 100% Natural, GMO-Free, Cruelty Free, Gluten Free, Vegan
Price : $13

As simple as it gets, this organic rose water from SW Basics is made of pure steam-distilled organic rosewater. This gentle mist is incredibly versatile: it can be used as a toner, light moisturizer, or makeup setter. Spray it on throughout the day as often as you like for a refreshing mist and beautiful glow. It works for all skin types and has a lovely, rose floral scent. If you’re looking for a pure, all-purpose, affordable rose water that you can use all the time -- this is it!

Shop *SW BASICS – PURE ORGANIC ROSE WATER SPRAY

5. *APOTERRA – NATURAL ROSE WATER TONER W/ HYALURONIC ACID

*APOTERRA – NATURAL ROSE WATER TONER W/ HYALURONIC ACID  | $39 |
Ethics : 100% Natural, GMO-Free, Cruelty Free, Gluten Free, Vegan
Price : $39

Crafted with 95% certified organic ingredients, this natural rose water toner is deeply hydrating. It contains a good dose of hyaluronic acid, which moisturizes your skin and reduces inflammation. Other key ingredients include rose water (mild astringent), frankincense (anti-aging), and rooibos tea (soothing, antibacterial, helps prevent sun damage). After cleansing, mist the toner directly on your face, apply via a cotton ball, or mix with your favorite serum. It has a sweet, rose fragrance.

Shop *APOTERRA – NATURAL ROSE WATER TONER W/ HYALURONIC ACID

6. *AGENT NATEUR – NATURAL PEARL AND ROSE WATER TONER

*AGENT NATEUR – NATURAL PEARL AND ROSE WATER TONER | $88 |
Ethics : 100% Natural, GMO-Free, Cruelty Free, Gluten Free, Vegan
Price : $88

Created with pure ingredients from Europe and the Middle East, this natural rose water toner boasts a variety of great benefits. Its key ingredients include Bulgarian Rose Water, which soothes, cleanses, tones and tightens. Hyaluronic acid provides hydration and helps to plump skin. Pearl powder promotes collagen production, while lavender fights acne and cleanses the skin. This toner plumps, tightens, hydrates and softens the skin, while revealing a beautiful glow. Ideal for all skin types.

Shop *AGENT NATEUR – NATURAL PEARL AND ROSE WATER TONER

7. *ROSE MIRA ORGANICS – ROSES IN BLOOM ORGANIC ROSE WATER TONER

*ROSE MIRA ORGANICS – ROSES IN BLOOM ORGANIC ROSE WATER TONER | $41 |
Ethics : 100% Natural, GMO-Free, Cruelty Free, Gluten Free, Vegan
Price : $41

A fabulous toner from Rose Mira. This 100% organic rosewater mist is made from 2 skin-friendly botanicals: Neroli Hydrosol (great for oily skin or acne) and Rose de Mai Essential Oil (hydrating + soothing), which work together to hydrate, balance and calm the skin. This lovely formulation balances the skin’s PH, tightens pores, and helps prevent acne (due to its antibacterial properties). Designed for all skin types, this sweet-smelling toner can be used anytime to make your skin glow.

Shop *ROSE MIRA ORGANICS – ROSES IN BLOOM ORGANIC ROSE WATER TONER

8. *TAMMY FENDER – ORGANIC BULGARIAN ROSE WATER TONER

*TAMMY FENDER – ORGANIC BULGARIAN ROSE WATER TONER | $65 |
Ethics : 100% Natural, GMO-Free, Cruelty Free, Gluten Free, Vegan
Price : $65

This organic Bulgarian rose water toner from Tammy Fender is rejuvenating and restorative. It’s crafted with Certified Organic Rose Flower Water and Rosa Damascene Oil. This lovely floral mist is ideal for dry, sensitive, imbalanced, or irritated skin, but it can be used on all skin types for its balancing, repairing, and hydrating properties. It has a wonderful rose fragrance, which also gives it aromatherapy properties (the scent of Bulgarian Rose can be soothing for balancing emotions).

Shop *TAMMY FENDER – ORGANIC BULGARIAN ROSE WATER TONER

9. *UMA – ORGANIC BRIGHTENING ROSE WATER TONER

*UMA – ORGANIC BRIGHTENING ROSE WATER TONER | $65 |
Ethics : 100% Natural, GMO-Free, Cruelty Free, Gluten Free, Vegan
Price : $65

This luxurious, 100% organic rose water toner is a must-have splurge. It’s crafted with rose water (hydrating), essential oils of rose (astringent), sandalwood (luminosity) frankincense (anti-aging), as well as potent fruit extracts including papaya (cleansing), watermelon (tone) and tomato (banish blemishes). This organic rose water is ideal for cleansing, toning, soothing, and hydrating all skin types. Reviewers rave that their skin is “radiant,” “soft” and that “the smell is wonderful!”

Shop *UMA – ORGANIC BRIGHTENING ROSE WATER TONER

10. *HERBIVORE BOTANICALS – NATURAL COCONUT, HIBISCUS, & ROSE WATER MIST

*HERBIVORE BOTANICALS – NATURAL COCONUT, HIBISCUS, & ROSE WATER MIST | $16-$32 |
Ethics : 100% Natural, GMO-Free, Cruelty Free, Gluten Free, Vegan
Price : $16-$32

This tropical, natural rose water face mist from Herbivore Botanicals instantly refreshes your skin. Star ingredients include: coconut water (refreshing and hydrating), Moroccan rose water (hydrating and soothing), and Hibiscus flower extract (exfoliates and promotes elasticity). This face mist is suitable for all skin types and works best when applied after cleansing and before moisturizing. The fragrance is very subtle, and decidedly rose-scented (we couldn’t really smell the coconut).

Shop *HERBIVORE BOTANICALS – NATURAL COCONUT, HIBISCUS, & ROSE WATER MIST

FILTER BY TYPE

Simplified Skin – Rose Water ($12.95)

Crafted from organic Bulgarian rose petal water, this refreshing mist toner is sure to be a staple in your care routine because of its versatility. Regardless of your skin type, its anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties help to balance pH, tone, hydrate, and control excess oil. Once you've combated the skin's redness, simply spritz it on your hair to treat heat damage or to condition your locks for shiner hair -- you can even use it to set (or gently remove) your makeup.

*Alteya Organics – Certified Organic Bulgarian Rose Water

Alteya has decades of experience as one of the highest quality rose water producers in the world. This certified organic Bulgarian Rose water is 100% organically grown and harvested from Alteya’s family farm in the Bulgarian Rose Valley. It contains just 100% steam distilled rose flower hydrosol. It can be used for aromatherapy, hair care, skincare and even cooking! As a standalone toner, this organic rose water is ideal for anti-aging, moisturizing, acne, and reducing inflammation.

The Ox Box: Organic Beauty Box (No Subscription!)

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*SW Basics – Pure Organic Rose Water Spray ($13)

As simple as it gets, this organic rose water from SW Basics is made of pure steam-distilled organic rosewater. This gentle mist is incredibly versatile: it can be used as a toner, light moisturizer, or makeup setter. Spray it on throughout the day as often as you like for a refreshing mist and beautiful glow. It works for all skin types and has a lovely, rose floral scent. If you’re looking for a pure, all-purpose, affordable rose water that you can use all the time -- this is it!

MEDICAL REVIEW
drmiraherman_headshot300-min

This Article Has Been Medically Fact-Checked By…

DR. MIRA HERMAN DC, Founder @ Rose Mira Organics

Dr. Mira Herman is a Doctor of Chiropractic, a Licensed Acupuncturist, and an Herbalist with specialties in both Western and Chinese Herbology. She holds degrees from the California School of Herbal Studies (where she was mentored by world-renowned herbalists), The Palmer School of Chiropractic, and Samra University of Oriental Medicine. In addition to her 40 years of experience as a medical practitioner and herbalist, Dr. Mira is also the head formulator and founder of an organic skin care line: Rosemira Organics. Owned and operated out of California for 11 years, Dr. Mira personally handcrafts each and every product. She is driven by her passion for supporting women’s well being and beauty through potent, yet natural formulations. Dr. Mira serves on the Skincare Ox Medical Advisory Team as our expert on essential oils, herbs, extraction and distillation processes, skin care formulation methods, plant extracts, and aromatherapy.

WEBSITE: WWW.ROSEMIRA.COM

Medical Review Disclaimer
This content is strictly the opinion of the writers of Skincare Ox and is for informational and educational purposes only. This content has been medically reviewed for factual accuracy by Dr. Mira Herman. A medical review  is not intended to act as medical advice or to substitute medical advice or adequate treatment from a qualified medical professional. All viewers of this content are advised to consult a qualified medical professional (such as a dermatologist) regarding specific skin care and health questions. Neither Dr. Mira Herman nor the publisher of this content take responsibility for possible health consequences of any person or persons reading or following the information provided in this educational content. All viewers of this content should consult a qualified health professional before following any skin, health, or lifestyle advice. Additionally, product reviews and product recommendations are the sole opinion of the editorial team of Skincare Ox. A medical review of educational content by Dr. Mira Herman or any  member of our Medical Advisory Team does not imply an endorsement of any particular product, service, or brand recommended in our content.
SOURCES & REFERENCES

1. (2011) Iranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences: Pharmacological Effects of Rosa Damascena. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3586833/

2. (2009) International Journal Of Pharmaceutics: Transepidermal water loss and skin site: A hypothesis. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378517309000738

3. (2012) Division of Integrative Physiology, Department of Functional, Morphological and Regulatory Science, Tottori University Faculty of Medicine, Yonago, Tottori 683, Japan. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22167272

4. (2014) African Journal of Microbiology Research: Antimicrobial Activity of Rosa Damascena Petals Extracts and Chemical Composition by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS) Analysis. https://academicjournals.org/journal/AJMR/article-full-text-pdf/F45F80445336

PRODUCT BADGES LEGEND
100% NATURAL

100% NATURAL

The product contains only natural ingredients (non-synthetic or lab created). It does not contain anything artificial or synthetic.

100% ORGANIC

100% ORGANIC

The product has been formulated with 100% organically sourced and/or certified organic ingredients.

GMO FREE

GMO FREE

This product does not contain ingredients which have been genetically modified.

GLUTEN FREE

GLUTEN FREE

All of the ingredients contained in the product are free from gluten, wheat, and ingredients which are commonly contaminated with gluten.

VEGAN

VEGAN

The product is made without animal products or byproducts such as beeswax, honey, milk, eggs, etc.

CERTIFIED ORGANIC

CERTIFIED ORGANIC

The product has received an official organic certification from a third party organization such as the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA Certified Organic), ECOCERT, Australian Certified Organic, and others.

4 Comments

  1. skincareox March 14, 2019
  2. Karin MacDonell March 19, 2019
  3. Heather Shindel November 7, 2021
  4. Fawn Wylie December 10, 2021

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