In many of our MV products, you might have noticed rose pop up again and again, and no, it’s not because we were inspired by those artificially floral scents in our Grandmas’ soap and perfume collection (…sorry Grandma!).
Rose oil is actually one of the world’s most precious (and therefore most costly) essential oils. Part of the magic of rose essential oil may be that the flowers are traditionally picked at dawn, just as the petals are beginning to unfold. Or that it takes a staggering 1,600 roses — around 48,000 velvety petals — to produce 1ml of oil!
But the real magic lies in the incredible results that rose oil has on our skin, which include combatting dehydration, high colour, sensitivity and hormonal issues, not to mention the soothing, strengthening and restorative effects post laser, IPL, microdermabrasion and chemical peels.
It also has a positive effect on surface capillaries, helping to even out tone and improve the complexion, plus having potent anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties, beneficial for those suffering with acne.
But not all rose oils are created equal - there is a significant difference between Otto (steam distilled) and Absolute (alcohol extraction).
At MV, we take treating sensitive skin very seriously, which is why we always use Bulgarian Rose Otto, as this ensures there is no alcohol residue which may irritate delicate complexions.
Being one of the most expensive and highly-prized oils, sadly, it is also one of the most adulterated. But respecting our ingredients means honouring each of those 48,000 dreamy petals, which in this case equates to the careful selection of a good supplier and a refusal to compromise on concentration.
It’s no wonder then, that our Rose Plus Booster has won 5 awards (more than any other MV product), because it contains only seven ingredients and is the most potent ‘oil concentrate’ in the range. This level of concentration is fundamental for strengthening the skin where it has been traumatized either accidentally (e.g. sun burn) or intentionally (peels, laser). 
Along with a protective salve afterwards, such as MV Rose Soothing & Protective Moisturiser, our rose oil-heavy Rose Plus Booster can work wonders to repair damage, by powerfully absorbing through both upper and deeper layers on the skin via the hair follicles.
Aromatherapy is also intrinsic to the MV Skincare experience, evoking deep emotions and memories - so for those who love rose, these products have an almost instant impact on wellbeing. This is certainly the case for our founder, Sharon, who grew up in a house hugged by a beautifully perfumed rose garden on the northern edge of England’s Lake District (probably a welcome aroma too, as she says her weekends were often spent playing in the village pig farm).
In the world of aromatherapy, rose oil is invaluable in easing grief, sadness and mild depression. Studies have shown that the high, sweet perfume of rose oil lowers stress, working to soothe frayed nerves and reduce anxiety in both the physical and emotional realms. It is after all the oil of 'love' and is associated with the heart chakra and romance in general (cue the Hallmark cards)!
This mood enhancer even appeals to babies, and we’ve found that a spritz of MV Rose Hydrating Mist around a bub’s bedding works to soothe and settle them - a welcome bonus for a frazzled mum, too!
So, why roses? If you’re living with delicate, dehydrated, sensitive, rosacea and acne prone, menopausal, hormonally imbalanced, inflamed or chemically damaged skin – then rose oil is for you. For radiant, glowing skin that truly blooms, we at MV sure can’t get enough of it!
