What is Bulgarian Rose Extract?

Bulgarian Rose Extract, also known as Rosa Damascena, is a natural ingredient rich in antioxidants and vitamins that help soothe, hydrate, and brighten the skin.

What are the main benefits of Bulgarian Rose for the skin?

It calms redness, supports moisture balance, protects against oxidative stress, and promotes a smoother, more radiant complexion.

Is Bulgarian Rose Extract suitable for sensitive skin?

Yes. It’s gentle, soothing, and ideal for delicate or easily irritated skin, though patch-testing is always recommended for new products.

Does it really help with dark circles or puffiness?

It can. The extract helps improve skin elasticity and circulation, reducing signs of fatigue and giving the under-eye area a refreshed look.

Can I combine Bulgarian Rose with other skincare ingredients?

Absolutely. It pairs perfectly with hydrating and brightening actives like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, or vitamin C.

How long does it take to see visible results?

Most people notice smoother and more hydrated skin within days, while radiance and even tone improve after 2 to 4 weeks of consistent use.

Is Bulgarian Rose safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Yes, it’s a gentle botanical extract, but if you have sensitive skin or medical concerns, check with your dermatologist first.

How should I store rose-based skincare products?

Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve their aroma and natural antioxidant properties.

Can men use Bulgarian Rose skincare too?

Definitely. Its soothing and hydrating effects make it suitable for all skin types and genders.

Why is Bulgarian Rose considered premium in skincare?

Because it’s sourced from Bulgaria’s famous Rose Valley, known for its high concentration of essential compounds that deliver visible results and a luxurious sensory experience.

Bulgarian Rose extract in skincare cream for hydrated, radiant, and calm skin

Bulgarian Rose (Rosa Damascena) Extract Explained: Proven Benefits for Skin Health

11 oktober 2025

Bulgarian Rose Extract for Skincare: Science, Benefits, and How to Use It (The Complete Guide)

If there’s one flower that’s captivated perfumers, herbalists, and skincare lovers for centuries, it’s Bulgarian Rose (Rosa damascena). Beyond the romance, this rose is a science-backed skincare ingredient with compelling data around soothing inflammation, antioxidant protection, and supporting a healthier-looking under-eye area. Below, we unpack what makes Bulgarian Rose special, who it’s best for, what the research shows, and exactly how to add it to your routine—with product picks available from Vitadeal.

What is Bulgarian Rose (Rosa damascena) Extract?

“Bulgarian Rose” refers to Rosa damascena grown and distilled in Bulgaria’s famous Rose Valley. Skincare formulas typically use:

Rose essential oil (otto) – the aromatic oil distilled from petals.
Rose absolute – a solvent-extracted aromatic concentrate.
Rose water (hydrosol) – the fragrant water by-product of steam distillation.
Botanical extracts – water/glycerin or alcohol extracts rich in polyphenols.

Chemically, rose oil/absolute characteristically contains phenethyl alcohol, citronellol, geraniol, and nerol, among other volatile compounds linked to its scent and some bioactivities.

Key Skin Benefits (What Users Actually Notice)

1) Calms visible redness and soothes stressed skin

Extracts from Rosa damascena petals show anti-inflammatory activity in skin models, helping reduce the cascade associated with irritation.

2) Antioxidant protection against daily stressors

Rose constituents exhibit antioxidant effects, which help neutralize free radicals generated by UV exposure and pollution—factors tied to dullness and premature aging.

3) Under-eye support: dark circles & tired look

A 2020 paper reported a rose extract reducing the contrast of under-eye dark circles in a small human evaluation, suggesting a helpful role in eye-area appearance when used consistently.

4) Balances and refreshes

Traditional and modern uses of rose water highlight its gentle, balancing feel for combination and sensitive skin types; reputable dermatology and consumer sources often cite hydrating and soothing effects.

The Science—What’s Actually Been Shown?

Anti-inflammatory activity (in vitro & ex vivo): Rose petal extract reduced inflammatory mediators in skin models, supporting its calming reputation.
Dark circle appearance (pilot human data): A rose extract at very low concentration (5×10⁻³%) improved the color contrast of under-eye dark circles over time.
Antioxidant/anti-aging signals (preclinical): Rosa damascena ferment/extracts showed antioxidant, anti-wrinkle, and soothing effects in lab systems; outcomes will depend on concentration and formula.
Bioactive aroma chemistry: Bulgarian rose oil/absolute is rich in phenethyl alcohol, citronellol, geraniol, and nerol—key volatiles that characterize its profile and some bioactivities.

Important context: Many studies are small or preclinical. Real-world results depend on the quality of raw material, concentration, and formula design (delivery system, pH, stabilizers).

Who Benefits Most from Bulgarian Rose Extract?

Sensitive, easily irritated skin seeking a gentle, calming toner/serum.
Dull, stressed, or urban-exposed skin that needs antioxidant support.
Tired under-eyes concerned with shadowy tone and a fatigued look (pair with caffeine or peptides).

Formulation Matters (Why Two Rose Products Can Feel So Different)

Bulgarian Rose works best when:

Paired with hydrators (e.g., glycerin, hyaluronic acid) to boost comfort.
Combined with eye-area actives like caffeine or peptides for multi-pathway results.
Stabilized and packaged to protect delicate volatiles from oxidation.

Because rose actives are often water-soluble (extract/hydrosol) and volatile (essential oil), delivery systems and freshness matter for consistency over the product’s life cycle.

Real Products to Try (Vitadeal Picks)

1) Shop the full Bulgarian Rose lineup

Browse cleansers, toners, creams, and more featuring Bulgarian Rosa damascena in our curated collection:
My Rose of Bulgaria Cosmetics Collection

2) For under-eye fatigue & dark circles

TPS Radiance Eye Contour Caffeine Serum – a lightweight serum powered by caffeine (to de-puff and energize) and complementary botanicals. Pairing caffeine with rose extract is a smart, research-aligned combo for the look of dark circles and morning puffiness.

3) For glow and smoothness from neck to toe

RO Oriental Mademoiselle Body Scrub – an indulgent body polish where the rose aroma elevates the ritual while the scrub refines texture, revealing softer, brighter-looking skin.

How to Use Bulgarian Rose Extract in a Routine (AM/PM)

Morning

Cleanse gently.
Rose toner or mist to comfort and balance (press, don’t rub).
Targeted serum – for eyes, a caffeine + rose combo is ideal; for face, pick antioxidants.
Moisturizer suited to your skin type.
Broad-spectrum SPF daily.

Evening

Double cleanse if wearing sunscreen/makeup.
Rose hydrosol or extract serum to soothe post-cleansing.
Eye treatment (caffeine, peptides, or rose-rich formula).
Nourishing cream or oil to seal in moisture.

Pro tip: Keep eye products in the fridge for a quick de-puffing moment on busy mornings.

Safety, Allergies, and Sensitivities (Read This If You’re Reactive)

Bulgarian Rose is generally well-tolerated, but fragrance allergens found naturally in essential oils—such as citronellol, geraniol, and linalool—can trigger sensitivity in some users, especially when oxidized. If your skin is reactive, patch-test and choose fresh, well-formulated products.

Myths vs. Facts

Myth: “Rose extract is only a fragrance.”
Fact: Beyond scent, studies report anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, plus preliminary human data on under-eye dark circles.

Myth: “Any rose product will work the same.”
Fact: Results vary with species (Rosa damascena vs others), origin (Bulgarian distillation quality), extraction method, dose, and formula design.

Myth: “Natural means non-allergenic.”
Fact: Natural essential oils may contain listed fragrance allergens; sensitive users should patch-test and store products correctly to reduce oxidation.

FAQs (Quick Answers)

Does Bulgarian Rose help with acne?

It’s not an acne drug, but its soothing and antioxidant profile can complement a routine for upset skin.

Can I mix rose extract with vitamin C or niacinamide?

Yes—many users enjoy the combo. Introduce gradually and watch for sensitivity.

How long to see results?

Comfort and hydration can feel immediate. For tone, texture, or dark circles, expect 2–4 weeks of consistent use.

Is rose water the same as rose extract?

Not exactly. Rose water is a hydrosol from distillation; extracts can be glycerin, water, or alcohol based with different polyphenol profiles. Both can be beneficial.

How to Shop Smart (Quality Signals)

Transparent INCI listing (look for “Rosa Damascena Flower Extract,” “Rosa Damascena Flower Water,” or “Rosa Damascena Flower Oil”).
Freshness & packaging: Opaque/airless formats help protect volatile components.
Synergy: For under-eyes, pair rose with caffeine or peptides; for whole-face, with hyaluronic acid or niacinamide.

The Takeaway

Bulgarian Rose (Rosa damascena) isn’t just a pretty scent—it’s a multifunctional skincare ingredient with a growing body of data around soothing, antioxidant defense, and supporting the look of dark circles. Results hinge on the formula and routine consistency. If you’re building a calm-but-effective routine, Bulgarian Rose deserves a place on your shelf.

Shop the look:

Explore the My Rose of Bulgaria Cosmetics Collection for cleansers, toners, and moisturizers centered on Rosa damascena.
Target under-eye fatigue with TPS Radiance Eye Contour Caffeine Serum—a smart match with rose for a brighter, rested look.
Smooth and glow from shoulders to ankles with RO Oriental Mademoiselle Body Scrub to make your rose ritual a full-body experience.