We're totally addicted to Rice Water. Here's why you should be too!

Would you like a handful of lotions and potions for dewy, smooth skin or a shortcut to instant glass skin? Well, hold your Ramen because probably next to those instant noodles is a bag of tiny white grains with BIG secrets. Indeed! The starchy liquid left behind from soaking rice holds beautifying power far beyond its size – making the trendy ingredient rice water a secret weapon for radiant, glassy skin!

However, a secret? While it may seem that rice water has only recently entered the zeitgeist, it's actually been an integral part of beauty rituals across various cultures for centuries. Today it reigns supreme as a beauty classic that even we had to rice to the occasion and integrate its skincare superpowers in some of our fave rice water formulas.

If you’ve yet to be converted, you may still be wondering: could something as simple as rice really yield big results for your complexion? Keep reading to learn everything about rice water for skin, how to incorporate it into your skincare routine – plus the best rice water products. It’s time for rice, ice, baby!

It’s helpful to understand that while rice water might be just one ingredient, it’s made up of a plethora of beneficial nutrients. Thanks to its abundance of vitamins, amino acids, and minerals, rice water is known to brighten, lighten, and soften your skin soothe and tone skin while offering relief to those with skin sensitivities.

Let’s look at the components of rice water for skin and why it’s a ‘rice and shining armor’ for common complexion concerns!

Starch: Rice water is rich in starch, which has soothing properties that can help calm irritated or inflamed skin. It creates a protective barrier on the dermis, locking in moisture and preventing dehydration.

Vitamins: Rice water contains vitamins B1, B2, B3, and B6, as well as vitamins A and E. These vitamins nourish the skin, promote cell regeneration, and help maintain a healthy complexion. Vitamin A also makes an appearance, playing a key role in skin cell production, skin health, and firmness. Vitamin E acts as a potent antioxidant, protecting the skin from damage caused by free radicals.

Amino Acids: Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, and they are crucial for skin health. Rice water contains a variety of amino acids that support collagen production. One of the most noted amino acids is kojic acid: renowned for its skin-brightening abilities, antifungal properties, and antibacterial functions. This super acid helps to maintain the skin's elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Antioxidants: Rice water is loaded with antioxidants, such as ferulic acid and allantoin. Ferulic acid can help fight oxidative stress and free radical damage on our skin. This can contribute to a more youthful and radiant skin tone. Known for its versatility, allantoin has an aptitude for calming skin and promoting healing while hydrating it and encouraging brightness.

Minerals: Minerals like magnesium and selenium found in rice water help in skin regeneration and can aid in soothing and reducing skin conditions like acne and inflammation.

PRO-TIP: When fermented, rice water also develops a nutrient called pitera, which contains more age-corrective properties.

With all the skin-loving components of rice water for skin, it’s no wonder many have flocked to their kitchens and done some DIY magic with the tiny yet mighty grains! But as with many beauty applications, there are rice and wrong ways to make the magical skin liquid.

Let’s look at how rice water for skin is traditionally prepared:

Step 1: Rinse the rice:

Take the uncooked rice – use organic or natural rice for best results - and rinse it thoroughly under cold running water to remove any impurities.

Step 2: Soak the rice:

Place the rinsed rice in a bowl and add about 2 cups of water. Let the rice soak for 15–30 minutes. During this time, the water will begin to take on a cloudy appearance.

Step 3: Agitate and extract rice water:

After the rice has soaked, agitate it by gently rubbing the grains between your fingers. This will release the beneficial nutrients into the water. Strain the rice water into a clean bowl, separating it from the rice grains.

Step 4: Fermentation (Optional):

For enhanced benefits, you can opt for fermentation. Leave the strained rice water at room temperature for 24–48 hours. Fermentation increases the nutrient content and makes the rice water more potent.

At 100% PURE, we use fermented rice water. So, what’s the big deal with fermented rice water for skin? How is fermented rice water different from regular rice water? We like to think of fermented rice water as rice water’s big sister: she’s more independent, wiser, and has a little more perfection to her practice.

Step 5: Storage:

Once fermented (if you choose this option), store the rice water in a clean, airtight container in the refrigerator. The cold temperature not only preserves its freshness but also provides a refreshing sensation when applied to the skin.

As mentioned earlier, though there has been a surge in the popularity of using rice water to achieve radiant and glassy skin, it’s been a classic skincare staple in Asian cultures and their beauty rituals for hundreds of years. Why this is so important to emphasize because, with its long-standing medical and beauty usage, it brings credible evidence into today’s culture and claims about its abilities to lighten, brighten, and tighten skin. So, let’s go a bit back in time.

The practice of utilizing rice water as a beauty treatment is believed to have originated in ancient China during the Tang dynasty (618-907 AD). Rice water has been used as a beauty treatment for centuries. In the pre-Qin days, people first washed their hair with rice water, which contains starch, protein, and vitamins. Not only did rice water help remove scalp impurities and maintain the pH of the scalp and hair, but it also helped with hair growth.

Moreover, women also bathed with water used for washing rice for centuries. They found that their skin was smoother, supple, and blemish-free. The rice water was a gentle cleanser and easy to use. And, fermented rice water helped improve sun damage on the skin. Plus, it releases collagen to keep the skin taut. We can see these days rice water's versatile benefits that have transcended generations, making it a true beauty potion for all.

While rice water might be just one ingredient, it solely offers numerous skin benefits that prove it’s a tiny yet mighty skin hero. Thanks to its abundance of vitamins, amino acids, and minerals, rice water for skin will transform your complexion from dull to dazzling in a pinch! Check out its superpowers:

Improving Complexion:

One of the ways rice water contributes to a clearer and more even-toned complexion has to do with its influence on melanin production. Melanin is the natural pigment that gives skin its range of unique and beautiful shades. It’s also one of the main components of scar tissue and dark spots. Rice water can brighten the skin and help fade scar tissue by blocking the production of tyrosine, an amino acid necessary for supporting melanin production. This helps to a clear, more even-toned complexion.

Anti-Aging Effects:

Since rice water is loaded with many all-star antioxidants for your skin, it offers a plethora of skin-loving antiaging properties. One such antioxidant is ferulic acid; it’s perfectly suited for fighting the harmful free radicals that can wreak havoc on our skin, making it ideal for anti-aging.

Ferulic acid is also a fantastic antioxidant to see working in tandem with other antioxidants like vitamins C and E. While providing skin-brightening and moisturizing powers, these vitamins also have a reputation for unstable shelf lives. Ferulic acid, however, can help keep these antioxidants stable.

The vitamin E content in rice water is a powerful, fat-soluble antioxidant known for its ability to reduce inflammation and help support skin and immune health. Since it can help combat free radicals, it may also help relieve UV damage, which is majorly caused by overexposure to the sun.

Allantoin in rice water can also work as a potent anti-aging ingredient, by encouraging collagen production and stimulating fibroblasts. In short, that means it may promote more supple, bouncy skin while lessening the appearance of lines and wrinkles. Rice water also contains a variety of amino acids that support collagen production, helping to maintain the skin's elasticity.

Soothing and Healing Properties:

Rice water is rich in starch, which has soothing properties that can help calm irritated or inflamed skin. It creates a protective barrier on the skin, locking in moisture and preventing dehydration. Since it also contains vitamin E, rice water’s content can condition the skin and strengthen the protective barrier to help trap moisture loss.

Rice water for the skin also has antifungal and antibacterial properties that can help soothe redness, calm irritated skin, and prevent acne-causing bacteria. It also helps clear and heal blemishes, as well as acne scars. Minerals like magnesium and selenium found in rice water help in skin regeneration and can aid in soothing and reducing skin conditions like acne and inflammation.

Still, using rice as a side dish in your skincare routine? A single grain of rice holds beautifying power far beyond its size – making the cult-favorite ingredient rice water a secret weapon for skin! If you’ve got dull skin, dryness, or dark spots, try using rice water in your regimen.

So how do we recommend using homemade rice water for the skin? Luckily this is one beauty mystery that’s easy to solve: start in your pantry! Select an organic long-grain white rice, and use distilled water for your recipes.

Here’s our DIY water rice recipe for skin and some easy instructions for preparing rice water at home. Time to see what this little grain can do!

DIY Skin Essence
What’s the essence of glass skin? Incorporate an ultra-skin nourishing recipe for a rice water skin essence! You can use it twice daily as a skin toner, or spritz it onto the skin before applying your serums and moisturizers.

Recipe:
Start with the basic rice water recipe above
Mix in an essential oil of your choice; we recommend rose, geranium, or lavender
Pour into a small, facial mist spray bottle
Store in the refrigerator for up to one week to avoid fermentation; shake gently before each use to redistribute essential oils

Rice water is a versatile beauty elixir that can be seamlessly integrated into your daily skincare routine. Explore additional beauty treatments, and discover how to enhance their effects by pairing them with other natural ingredients.

Rice Water Toner: After washing your face, soak a cotton pad in rice water and gently apply it to your skin. This toner can help balance your skin's pH and tighten pores. Combine rice water with green tea for a potent antioxidant-rich toner that fights signs of aging.

Rice Water Cleanser: Mix rice water with a small amount of your regular facial cleanser for a gentle and nourishing cleansing experience.

Rice Water Soak: Add rice water to your bathwater for a relaxing and hydrating bath. This can help soothe dry and itchy skin. Mixing rice water with aloe vera gel can create a hydrating and soothing blend for your skin.

Looking for ultra-concentrated potencies of rice water in your skincare? We blend sake (fermented rice water) with skin-healthy vitamins and essential oils. These formulas target dullness, dry skin, and dark spots for a more luminous complexion. Here are our top products that fully utilize the power of rice water:

Fermented Rice Water Cleanser

This gentle cleanser harnesses the power of fermented rice water to effectively cleanse your skin, removing impurities while preserving its natural moisture and balance. Packed with antioxidants and amino acids, it leaves your skin feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. You can use it twice daily as a skin toner, or spritz it onto the skin before applying your serums and moisturizers.

Fermented Rice Water Toner

Witch hazel and willow bark calm the skin while niacinamide, white mulberry, and licorice gently brighten the complexion. Sodium hyaluronate replenishes and primes the skin, to retain essential moisture. Purifying essential oils lift away dirt, oil, and debris for a second-wave clean sweep. The fermented rice water, combined with natural ingredients, soothes and preps the skin for subsequent skincare.

Fermented Rice Water Serum

A powerhouse of nutrients, this serum is designed to enhance skin's radiance, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and even out skin tone. Packed with super-hydrating vegan components, this serum employs organic aloe and glycerin to replenish lost moisture. It's a blend of fermented rice water, hyaluronic acid, and botanical extracts for maximum skin benefits.

Sake Cloud Foam Cleanser

This skin-brightening cleanser is made in a base of saké (fermented rice water), loaded with tyrosinase inhibitors like kojic acid (derived from saké), alpha arbutin (from bearberry), and licorice to prevent and brighten dark spots, even skin tone, and leave the complexion with a healthy glow, while hyaluronic acid and lavender hydrosol soothes and hydrates.

Are you looking to take rice water's benefits up a level? Here are a few ways you can combine it with other natural skincare ingredients or methods.

Relaxing: Fermented rice water can have a bit of a sour scent. So, if you prefer, you can add an essential oil or fruit zest for a sensory boost while you bathe or relax.

Hair Loss: Rosemary helps fight hair loss, so those wanting extra hair growth may want to add rosemary essential oil to rice water.

Hair Issues: Lavender and rose are extra soothing and offer aromatherapeutic benefits. Rose will help with itch and dandruff and may even help stabilize hair porosity. Try out lavender for extra conditioning.

Scalp Health: Peppermint helps to increase circulation, which improves scalp health. It also has a delightful cooling feeling, and the potent scent helps to neutralize the scent of the rice water.

Face Mask: Combine rice water with ingredients like honey, yogurt, or oatmeal for a luxurious treat for your skin. Apply this homemade concoction to your face, leave it on for 15-20 minutes, and wash it. It will help you achieve rejuvenated, nourished skin with a radiant glow.

Can Rice Water Be Used for All Skin Types?

Yes, rice water is generally safe for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Its natural composition is gentle on the skin, making it suitable for those with dry, oily, or combination skin. However, as with any new skincare regimen, it's advisable to do a patch test first to rule out any allergic reactions or skin sensitivities.

How Often Should I Use Rice Water on My Skin?

For best results, use rice water on your face 2-3 times a week. Soak a cotton pad in rice water and gently apply it on your face as a toner. You can also use it as a facial rinse after washing your face. Consistent use over time can lead to noticeably brighter and softer skin.

Is Rice Water Effective for Acne-Prone Skin?

Thanks to rice water’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, if you have oily and acne-prone skin, applying rice water to acne would help you reduce those painful red bumps. This medicinal water is rich in starch that cleanses the skin pores of sebum and pollutants, thus reducing acne and pimples.

Can I Store Rice Water, and How Long Does It Last?

Homemade rice water can be stored in a clean, airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The cold temperature not only preserves its freshness but also provides a refreshing sensation when applied to the skin. After that, it may lose its effectiveness, so make small batches as needed.

Will Rice Water Help with Dark Spots and Hyperpigmentation?

Rice water is rich in vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that are essential for skin health. Rice water contains antioxidants and compounds like ferulic acid and allantoin, which can brighten the skin, reduce pigmentation, and even out skin tone.

Rice water for skin has transcended borders and generations, making it a timeless beauty classic that continues to captivate the world. From Japan to other Asian cultures, it’s easy to see how rice water’s popularity has surged nowadays into the key to glass skin. Its vitamins, minerals, and antioxidant properties may help soothe inflamed skin, improve texture, lighten dark spots, and help lessen the signs of aging, among other potential benefits.

Besides its skin-loving powers, rice water’s natural components, scientific backing, and versatility make it a true beauty powerhouse. We invite you to embark on this journey, try rice water, and share your experiences. It’s a simple, natural, and effective addition to your skincare routine. Just think what the tiny benefits of a small white grain can do for your overall skin health. It could be your grain of skin hope!