What it is
Rosa Damascena Flower Extract is prepared from the petals or flowers of the damask rose, a species long cultivated for perfumery. In skincare and sunscreens it is used as a skin-conditioning agent and to lend a natural rose scent, and it contributes some antioxidant polyphenols. It is generally present at low levels as part of a sensory or botanical blend.
Safety & warnings
Rose flower extract can contribute naturally occurring fragrance constituents and may act as a sensitizer in fragrance-sensitive individuals; people with known fragrance allergies should be aware that rose-derived materials can carry allergenic aroma compounds. Otherwise it is generally well tolerated at cosmetic use levels.
Origin & sourcing
Natural; derived from the flowers of Rosa damascena, a rose species grown extensively for fragrance in regions such as Bulgaria, Turkey, and Iran.
History
The damask rose has been cultivated for centuries for the production of rose oil and rose water used in perfumery and traditional skincare.
Questions everyone asks
Why is rose extract added to sunscreen?
It is used as a skin-conditioning botanical and to provide a natural rose scent, not for sun protection.
Can rose extract cause irritation?
It can contribute fragrance compounds that may trigger sensitivity in fragrance-allergic individuals, but most people tolerate it well at the low levels used.