Red rose distillation waste may retain phenolic and antioxidant compounds that are potentially useful as natural photoprotective agents. This study aimed to formulate red rose (Rosa × damascena Herrm.) distillation waste into a topical gel, evaluate its physical characteristics and user acceptance, and determine its in vitro sun protection factor (SPF). An experimental design was used with hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC)-based gels containing 0% (F0), 10% (F1), 20% (F2), and 30% (F3) waste. The waste was screened for flavonoids, saponins, tannins, alkaloids, and vitamin C. Gel evaluation included organoleptic properties, homogeneity, pH, adhesion, spreadability, viscosity, hedonic testing, and SPF measurement by ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectrophotometry at 290-320 nm using the Mansur approach. Flavonoids, saponins, tannins, and vitamin C were detected, whereas alkaloids were not. All formulas were homogeneous and remained within acceptable topical pH and physical ranges. The SPF value increased from 1.972 ± 0.08 in F0 to 12.958 ± 1.35, 31.503 ± 0.58, and 33.521 ± 0.32 in F1, F2, and F3, respectively. Concentration significantly affected pH, spreadability, adhesion, and SPF, but not viscosity. Red rose distillation waste therefore shows potential as a natural active ingredient in sunscreen gel, with F2 and F3 providing ultra photoprotection in vitro.