For centuries, roses have been a universal symbol of love, beauty, and romance. From ancient mythology to royal beauty rituals, this iconic flower has remained deeply woven into history—cherished not only for its exquisite fragrance and breathtaking beauty but also for its powerful benefits for the skin.
Roses & Romance: A Love Story Through the Ages
The love affair with roses dates back thousands of years. In Greek and Roman mythology, the rose was considered sacred, often associated with Aphrodite and Venus, the goddesses of love and beauty. One legend tells of roses blooming from the tears of Aphrodite as she mourned her beloved Adonis, symbolising the enduring nature of love.
During the Roman Empire, roses were more than just a floral delight—they were a sign of luxury and indulgence. Wealthy Romans filled their banquets with rose petals, infused their baths with rose water, and even scattered petals across their beds as a symbol of passion and desire.
The medieval period saw roses take on a new meaning of devotion and secrecy. The phrase "sub rosa", meaning "under the rose," originated during this time, as roses were often hung in meeting rooms to signify confidential discussions. Knights and nobles exchanged roses as tokens of admiration and loyalty, reinforcing the flower’s deep association with love and trust.
In the Victorian era, roses became central to the "language of flowers," a way for people to express emotions that words could not. Each colour carried a different meaning:
🌹 Red – Deep love and passion
🌸 Pink – Admiration and gratitude
🤍 White – Purity and new beginnings
💛 Yellow – Friendship and joy
🖤 Black – Mourning and farewell
Roses remain a beloved expression of love today, whether in bouquets, perfumes, or beauty rituals that nourish both skin and spirit.
The Ancient Beauty Secret: Roses in Skincare
Beyond romance, roses have long been prized for their skincare benefits. The ancient Egyptians were among the first to harness their power. Cleopatra, famed for her beauty, was known to bathe in rose-infused water, using it to soften and perfume her skin. Rose oil was considered so precious that it was often reserved for royalty and religious ceremonies.
The Persians, particularly during the rule of the Islamic Golden Age, perfected the art of distilling rose water. The famous Persian physician Avicenna developed advanced methods for extracting rose essence, which became a staple in both medicinal and cosmetic treatments. Rose water was used to treat everything from inflammation and fevers to dry skin and signs of ageing.
In Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine, rose extracts were valued for their cooling and soothing properties. Practitioners believed rose water could calm the mind, ease stress, and balance the body's natural energy. Applied to the skin, it was used to reduce redness, heal irritation, and promote a youthful glow.
By the 18th and 19th centuries, rose-infused skincare had spread across Europe. French perfumers embraced roses in their luxurious fragrances, while apothecaries recommended rose-based ointments and tonics for clearer, softer skin. Queen Victoria herself was said to favour rose-scented beauty products, further cementing the flower’s reputation as a symbol of elegance and femininity.
Why Roses Remain a Skincare Favourite Today
Modern skincare still celebrates the rose for its incredible ability to nourish and protect the skin. Whether in the form of rose water, rose oil, or rosehip seed extract, this timeless botanical continues to deliver powerful benefits, including:
✨ Hydration & Refreshment – Rose water is a natural humectant, helping to keep skin hydrated and glowing.
🌿 Soothing & Calming – With anti-inflammatory properties, roses can reduce redness, irritation, and sensitivity.
💧 Balancing & Toning – Rose extracts help regulate oil production, making them suitable for all skin types.
🌹 Anti-Ageing & Brightening – Rosehip seed oil is packed with vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids that support skin regeneration and radiance.
From ancient queens to modern-day skincare lovers, the rose continues to be a treasured ingredient in beauty rituals across the world. It remains a symbol of self-care, luxury, and timeless love—both for ourselves and for the skin we’re in.