Nothing says Valentine’s Day like roses. Those delicate petals, that unforgettable scent and that rich color that signifies love, passion and commitment. A dozen long stems will wilt in a week or so, but rose-scented beauty products will bring you joy until spring.
Indulging in rosy lotions, cleansers and fragrances is good for your health too, according to Lynn Bednar, owner of Walsh Natural Health in Evanston. “Rose is known as the queen of essential oils,” she says. “It is superior for skin care, especially for dry or wrinkled skin and distended capillaries. Rose nurtures and comforts. It relieves stress, anxiety, mild depression and menopausal concerns.”
Here are seven ways to treat yourself to a flowery beauty boost this Valentine’s Day.
Cult Classic–Baume de Rose By Terry
This little (and, yes, a little pricey) pot is worth every penny. Use it on your lips day and night, rub it on your dry cuticles or dab under your eyes for extra moisture while you sleep. Once a well-kept celebrity secret, this thick balm just celebrated its 10th birthday. $60, beauty.com
Magic Mask–Peter Thomas Roth Rose Stem Cell Bio-Repair Gel Mask
This gel mask feels cool going on, and soon starts to tingle and instantly refines and plumps up dehydrated and tired skin. Smells lovely, too. $45, Sephora
Calming Cleanser–Ren Rose Centifolia No. 1 Purity Cleansing Balm
This rose-infused balm melts into your skin, sweeping away waterproof mascara and stay-put makeup. It promises to leave skin cleansed, purified, calm and glowing. An extra bonus—it conditions eyelashes and brows, too. $48, Sephora
Face Refresher–Mario Badescu Facial Spray With Aloe Herbs And Rosewater
This hydrating mist combines rose oil and other herbs for a quick hit of hydration for face and hair. It’s great to use as a toner at night or to set your makeup in the morning. $7, Urban Outfitters
Fearless Fragrance–Jo Malone Red Roses Cologne
If you love the pure scent of roses, but don’t want to overpower, Jo Malone’s Red Roses is it. It’s made from a blend of seven roses, with crushed violet leaves and a splash of lemon. $120, Nordstrom
Daily Dose–Fresh Rose Hydrating Gel Cream
This hydrating day cream offers 24 hours of continuous hydration according to the company. But that’s not all. According to Lev Glazman, co-founder of Fresh, “The flower yields an incredibly precious oil brimming with nutrients that help to hydrate, soothe, tone and restore the skin, and the scent adds a unique mood-enhancing quality to the experience.” $42, Sephora
Chilly Cheeks–Josie Maran Argan Color Stick in Rosy
A dewy complexion is always in season, and this hydrating stick works great for cheeks and lips. Infused with argan oil for super hydration, this dual-purpose stick lasts forever and provides the perfect rosy glow while repairing and replenishing the skin. $22, Sephora
