As skin scientists and cosmetic chemists, we’ve long known that not all rose oils are created equal. The difference lies not only in the species of rose used, but also in the harvesting method, extraction technique, and geographical origin of the flower. Each factor contributes profoundly to the oil’s quality, purity, and therapeutic benefit to the skin.
The Three Main Types of Rose Oil
There are three primary types of rose-derived oils commonly used in skincare:
1. Rose Otto (Steam-Distilled Essential Oil)
Often referred to as the “liquid gold” of the skincare world, Rose Otto is produced through gentle steam distillation. This meticulous process preserves the volatile, heat-sensitive compounds that give the oil its characteristic aroma and potent biological activity. Rose Otto contains a symphony of actives—including citronellol, geraniol, and nerol—that provide soothing, anti-inflammatory, and microbiome-supportive benefits.
2. Rose Absolute (Solvent-Extracted)
While Rose Absolute boasts an intense aroma prized in perfumery, its solvent-based extraction process may leave behind trace residues. Though rich in fragrance compounds, absolutes often lack the full therapeutic profile necessary for clinical-grade skincare and may pose sensitivity risks for reactive skin.
3. Rosehip Oil (Cold-Pressed from Rosehip Seeds)
Though not derived from rose petals, rosehip oil is often confused with rose essential oils. This carrier oil is abundant in vitamins A and C and offers regenerative benefits, but lacks the aromatic and anti-inflammatory properties of true rose essential oil.
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From Petal to Elixir: How Rose Otto Is Made
At Luksha, we source only the highest grade Organic Rose Otto essential oil, harvested at peak bloom on a certified organic farm in the Valley of Roses, Bulgaria—the world’s most renowned region for Rosa damascena cultivation. Each rose must be hand-picked during the early morning hours, when the flower’s volatile compounds are at their peak concentration.
By midday, these fresh petals are gently steam-distilled—no solvents, no shortcuts. This immediate distillation captures not just the scent, but the complete therapeutic profile of the flower, including its calming, antioxidant, and skin-balancing properties. The result is an oil that not only smells exquisite, but genuinely supports skin health on a cellular level.
This method stands in sharp contrast to solvent extraction, which may yield more oil but compromises its purity and biological integrity.
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A Precious Yield
To produce just 1 kilogram of Organic Rose Otto, it takes approximately 3,000 to 5,000 kilograms of freshly harvested rose petals—equivalent to over 1 million blossoms. This staggering yield reflects the sheer concentration and potency of the oil, as well as its exceptional cost and rarity.
Even at a concentration of just 0.01% to 0.05%, Rose Otto remains therapeutically active, delivering clinically relevant benefits without overwhelming the skin or triggering sensitivity.
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Rose Season at Luksha
June is rose season in full bloom, and at Luksha, it’s the time we begin crafting one of our most elegant and beloved formulations:
Nourishing Cream with Raspberry Seed Oil and Organic Rose Otto.
This luxurious formula blends skin-nourishing botanical lipids with the pure essence of Bulgarian Rose Otto to calm, hydrate, and restore radiance—especially for mature or sensitive skin.
Other Luksha products enriched with Organic Rose Otto or Organic Rose Water include:
Moisturising Cream-Mask – A deeply hydrating treatment that replenishes the skin barrier while calming irritation.
Toner with Organic Rose Water, Organic Cranberry Extract, and Organic Aloe Leaf Juice
– A gentle mist that tones, softens, and refreshes with the natural humectant power of rose.
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Why We Choose Rose Otto
As cosmetic chemists and skin specialists, we formulate not just for aroma, but for efficacy. Rose Otto’s chemical composition supports barrier function, reduces inflammation, and helps balance the skin’s microbiome—making it ideal for sensitive, dry, and mature skin types. Its unique synergy of molecules is impossible to replicate with lower-grade alternatives.
At Luksha, we choose Rose Otto because it is the best.
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References:
1. Avetisyan, A., et al. (2017). Chemical composition and antimicrobial activity of essential oil of Rosa damascena. Journal of Essential Oil Research.
2. Lawrence, B.M. (2007). A study of rose oil composition. Perfumer & Flavorist.
3. Sofia, D.S., et al. (2019). Therapeutic properties of Rosa damascena Mill. on skin: A review. Phytotherapy Research.
4. International Federation of Essential Oils and Aroma Trades (IFEAT) – Rose Oil Market Overview.
5. Luksha Cosmetics Internal Formulation Records, 2025.
