In This Article
Facts Checked
Rice Water for Skin: Benefits, Uses, and DIY Recipes
Rice water in skincare has become increasingly popular among enthusiasts seeking natural and effective ingredients for improved skin health. Popular in Asian beauty, particularly those in Japan and Korea, rice water is believed to hydrate the skin and hold restorative properties. [1] Abundant in vitamins, amino acids, and minerals, rice water is used to ease conditions like eczema and achieve a youthful complexion. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the benefits of rice water for skin, types, and application of rice water. We will also review some rice water masks, their potential side effects, and how to incorporate this multifaceted potion into your daily skincare regime.
In This Article
What Is Rice Water?
Rice water is the starchy liquid left over after rice is soaked or cooked. It has been used for ages in Asian beauty routines. Rice water can be easily made at home and is also found in many skin care products. Packed with beneficial compounds, namely vitamins B and E, amino acids, minerals, and antioxidants, rice water helps promote smooth, supple, and naturally healthy-looking skin.
Nutritional Content In Rice Water
The following table shows the amount of different nutrients present in rice water:
Nutrient |
Amount per 100 ml |
| Calories | 8-10 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 1.8 – 2.0 g |
| Protein | 0.2 – 0.3 g |
| Fats | 0.05 – 0.1 g |
| Starch | 1.5 – 2.0 g |
| Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) | 0.02 – 0.05 mg |
| Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) | 0.01 – 0.02 mg |
| Vitamin E | 0.01 – 0.03 mg |
| Inositol | Trace amounts |
| Antioxidants | Moderate amounts |
| pH Level | Slightly acidic (pH 6) |
| Mineral Content (Potassium, Magnesium, etc.) | Trace amounts |
Benefits Of Using Rice Water For Skin
Rice water, a creamy, cloudy-looking liquid, provides abundant benefits for your skin. Let’s uncover a few of the potential benefits of rice water for the skin. [2]
-
Helps To Lighten Skin
Rice water is an excellent skin-brightening ingredient that helps fade dark spots and pigmentation.
-
Reduces Pimples
Rich in starch, rice water helps cleanse the pores of sebum and dirt, reducing acne and pimples.
-
Treats Acne Scars
The anti-inflammatory and brightening properties of rice water can help reduce redness associated with breakouts and fade acne scars over time.
-
Reduces Hyperpigmentation
Rice water can help improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of age spots, dark spots, and hyperpigmentation.
-
Treats Dark Circles
Rice water diminishes dark circles and brightens the under-eye area. It promotes blood flow to the delicate region under the eye, helping to clear and even skin.
-
Minimises Pores
The astringent properties of rice water help minimise the appearance of pores, making the skin look tighter, smoother, and more refined.
-
Removes Tan
Rice water has ferulic acid, vitamin E, and other beneficial compounds that promote skin regeneration, making it an effective remedy for tanning.
-
Treats Eczema
The application of rice water has benefitted people with conditions like eczema and dermatitis, as it calms irritation and clears up blemishes.
-
Calms Inflammation
Rice water is claimed to be effective in soothing skin and calming inflammation due to its rich content of anti-inflammatory agents, including proteins and carbohydrates.
-
Reduces Skin Ageing
The antioxidants in rice water are significantly effective in combating signs of ageing. Regular application can help reduce visible fine lines and wrinkles. [3]
-
Moisturises Skin
Hydration is necessary for healthy skin, and rice water is a natural moisturiser. It effectively sustains the skin’s moisture balance, keeping it hydrated and supple.
-
Repairs Damaged Skin
Rice water helps heal scars and many other minor skin damages more easily. It promotes skin regeneration and repair.
-
Controls Oily Skin
With its deep-cleansing abilities, rice water can be a saviour for those with oily skin. It regulates oil production, preventing the appearance of greasy skin.
-
Prevents Sun Damage
Regular use of rice water protects the skin against the sun’s rays. Compounds in rice can regulate melanin development when skin is exposed to UVB.
-
Improves Skin Texture
Rice water is known for improving skin texture. Its rich mineral and vitamin content reveals supple and rejuvenated skin.
Types Of Rice Water On Skin
There are different types of rice water. Let us go through the most popular methods of preparing rice water.
-
Boiling Rice Water
Thoroughly rinse and drain the rice. Take four times as much water as the quantity of rice. Bring the two to a boil together. Press the rice with a ladle to release beneficial chemicals. Once done, take the rice off the burner and strain it using a sieve. Instead of discarding the remaining water, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a week. Use by diluting with plain water.
-
Soaking Rice Water
Soaked rice water is gentler than boiled rice water. All you need to do is take a handful of rice or less and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Start pressing the rice as mentioned above and strain it with a sieve. Once done, refrigerate the leftover rice water and use it as desired.
-
Fermented Rice Water
Follow the same process for soaking rice to prepare fermented rice water. After pressing and straining the rice, do not refrigerate it. Fill it in a jar at room temperature for not more than two days. Put it in the refrigerator when you notice a sour smell emanating from the container. Dilute with plain water before application.
DIY Rice Water Face Mask Recipes
Here are some rice water face mask recipes that you can prepare at home easily:
Rice Water And Eggs Face Mask
Ingredients:
- Half a cup of rice water.
- 2 egg whites
Instructions:
- In a bowl, take half a cup of rice water.
- Mix the egg whites in it until smooth.
- Apply and let it sit for about 20 minutes.
- Rinse with cold water and pat dry.
Rice Water and Honey Mask
Ingredients:
- Half a cup of rice.
- Two teaspoons of honey
Instructions:
- In a bowl, take half a cup of rice water.
- In it, add honey.
- Mix well and apply.
- Rinse and gently pat dry.
Rice Water and Aloe Vera Mask
Ingredients:
- Half a cup of rice water.
- One tablespoon of Aloe vera Gel.
Instructions:
- Take half a cup of rice water in a bowl.
- Add 1 tbsp of Aloe vera Gel in it.
- Mix all the ingredients well.
- Apply and leave for 10 to 15 min before rinsing.
Rice Water and Green Tea Mask
Ingredients:
- Two tablespoons of rice water.
- One green tea bag.
Instructions:
- Add 2 tablespoons of rice water in a bowl.
- Steep a green tea bag in the bowl for at least 5 minutes.
- Mix well and apply the paste.
- Leave it on before rinsing with fresh water.
How To Use Rice Water For Skin?
There is more than one way to use rice water for skin.
-
Basic Application
Dip a cotton ball in rice water and apply it directly. Let it sit for half an hour until your skin fully absorbs it. Afterwards, rinse with lukewarm water.
-
Cleanser
Rice water can also be used as a gentle facial cleanser. Apply rice water to your face using a cotton pad or fingertips and gently massage. Wash off and pat dry.
-
Toner
Mix rice water with an aloe vera gel and rose water for a DIY toner. Transfer this perfect blend to a clean spray bottle along with water. Use it twice daily for a radiant glow.
-
Face Mask
Soak a cotton sheet mask in rice water for a hydrating face mask. Apply it to your face and leave it on for 10-15 minutes. This will make your skin plump and hydrated.
-
Bath Soak
Add rice water to your bath for a soothing bath soak. The nutrients and minerals in the rice water can nourish the body, leaving your skin rejuvenated. [4]
Side Effects Of Rice Water On Skin
Using rice water on the skin is usually considered safe and even beneficial. However, there can be a few potential side effects based on specific skin types and sensitivities. These include:
-
Allergic reactions
If you have an allergy or sensitivity to rice or any of its compounds, you may experience a reaction when applying it to your skin. Symptoms may include redness, itching, rash, and swelling.
Tip: Always do a patch test to see if you are allergic to rice water.
-
Increased Sun Sensitivity
Rice water contains ferulic acid, which increases the skin’s sensitivity to the sun. Applying rice water to your face could make you prone to sun damage.
Tip: Always use an effective sunscreen after applying rice water, as it controls the effects of harsh rays of the sun on the skin.
-
Dryness
Using rice water excessively may dry the skin and strip it of its natural oils. If you have dry skin, this can lead to dry and flaky skin. Using too much rice water can also upset the skin’s natural pH balance.
Tip: Limit the use of rice water if you have dry skin, and always follow up with a good moisturiser.
-
Contamination
If rice water is not prepared correctly, it can become contaminated with harmful bacteria, which may cause skin infections and other health concerns.
Tip: Wash the rice thoroughly and carefully store it in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator.
-
Skin irritation
Rice water, if left on the skin for too long, may lead to dryness, redness, irritation, or flakiness, depending on the skin type.
Tip: Limit the application of rice water based on the skin type.
Takeaway
Rice water has firmly established itself as a staple in the skincare world. Using it may bring positive benefits for skin and hair. Rice water boasts a treasure trove of proteins, vitamins, and amino acids that brighten the complexion, soothe sun damage, fight ageing, and mattify oily skin. [5] Caution is necessary, as is with any beauty secret. Embrace the benefits of rice water while being mindful of its potential side effects. Consult with an experienced dermatologist first before experimenting with any new skin regimen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Boiled rice water is beneficial for brightening and evening out skin tone.
Rice water helps improve the skin texture from within and hydrates the skin.
Yes. Rice water helps regulate excess oil production and minimises the size and visibility of pores.
It helps in digestion while promoting healthier skin.
Yes. They brighten, exfoliate, and nourish the skin.
It brightens, hydrates, and enhances the texture of the skin.
Leave it for 10 to 20 minutes, based on your skin’s tolerance.
Yes. It is generally considered safe to use as a toner or cleanser.
Yes. It is good for nourishing and hydrating the skin.
Rice water is suitable for all skin types – particularly oily and combination skin.
Yes. However, always perform a patch test to avoid potential allergic reactions.
Yes. This mixture hydrates and brightens the skin.
Yes. Rice water can help achieve softer and smoother skin.
Yes. It helps smoothen and brighten the skin.
Yes. Black rice water is beneficial with its antioxidant properties.
Yes. Brown rice water is rich in nutrients and good for skin health.
Use a moisturiser or aloe vera with rice water to boost hydration.
Yes. You may leave rice water overnight for added benefits.
With regular use, rice water may provide a luminous ‘glass skin’ and smooth appearance.
Yes. Rice water may enhance skin texture and tone.
Read This Next
Benzoyl Peroxide and Salicylic Acid: Benefits, Uses, and Comparison
Is It Possible To Increase Melanin In Your Skin?
What Are The Cost, Before & After Results Of Dermal Fillers For Face
Skin Peeling On Face: Causes, Treatments, Home Remedies & Prevention
Melasma – Types, Causes, Symptoms, Treatments and Prevention Tips
