Have you noticed a profusion of roses lately? And I don’t mean in your garden, but on your bathroom counter. Rose fragrance has made a comeback, big time, in scents and body products. Suddenly, rose oil is the hottest ingredient for eyes, face, body and more, appearing in high-end products of every ilk. We sampled a few to bring you the results firsthand.
[soft & scented]
Laura Mercier Flawless Skin Nourishing Creme
This cream has a somewhat fluffy texture, since it is ‘whipped.’ It feels great on the skin and smells wonderful—but you have to like the heavy scent of roses, since it stays with you for a long time. I loved it; it’s light enough for morning use and emollient enough for nighttime. Ingredients include rosehip seed oil, and mango and shea butters.
$68 at Neiman Marcus
[body beautiful]
Jo Malone Velvet Rose & Oud Dry Body Oil
It may take some getting used to the idea of spraying your body with oil, but that is exactly what this product does. It’s reminiscent of the days when people slathered themselves with baby oil, only this Jo Malone product has the brand’s classic touch of smoky spice. And while you’d think the result would be unbearably greasy, it’s not. Oil creates a barrier to keep natural moisture in, while adding a skin-softening texture. That said, this is best used at night when you’re not in danger of getting it on that new silk blouse!
$75 at Neiman Marcus
[moisture mask]
Chantecaille Rose de Mai Face Oil
Imagine a facial with pure rose oil that leaves your face glowing and fragrant. That is pretty much the sensation of this daily-use product. It’s made with four different rose oils, and here again, covering your face with oil will seem counterintuitive. But it feels and smells delicious—and is incredibly softening, using a high concentration of rose de mai, a spring-blooming flower said to be high in vitamin C.
$185 at Neiman Marcus
[naturally nourishing]
Rosemira Organics I-Renew Eye Cream Bella Rose
This boutique Sebastapol, California, company makes remarkable products, many with healing properties. Completely natural and organic, the rose eye cream calms the area under the eyes, lessening puffiness and brightening dark circles. Use sparingly for best absorption. The rose scent is detectable, but subtle.
$40 at rosemira.com
[what’s in a bar?]
Krigler Manhattan Rose Soap
This exclusive French brand is known for distinctive scents, and Manhattan Rose is no exception. The iconic square bar contains shea butter for moisture and rose perfume for fragrance. It has a very Continental feel and scent, and provides soft lather with a fresh fragrance.
$25 at krigler.com, Plaza Hotel NYC, The Four Seasons Beverly Hills
