Rice water has been a treasured beauty secret in Asian cultures for centuries, and its popularity has recently surged in the skincare world. This liquid, obtained from soaking or boiling rice, is generally recognized as a source of starch, amino acids, vitamins (like B and E), and antioxidants like ferulic acid [1], [5]. These components suggest potential for various skin benefits. In this article, we’ll explore the current scientific understanding and historical uses of rice water as a natural complementary approach for enhancing your skin’s health and appearance.
Is Rice Water Good for Skin?
The existing evidence suggests rice water has beneficial properties, but results can vary greatly among individuals. Rice water’s nutrient-rich composition is thought to make it a gentle, traditional choice for various skin types [1]. The starches and antioxidants present in rice water may work to hydrate, soothe, and protect the skin barrier [1], [5]. While it has been historically used on dry, oily, or sensitive skin, it is best viewed as a complementary product, not a primary medical treatment.
Top Potential Benefits of Rice Water for Skin
Let’s dive into the numerous ways rice water has been traditionally used and is being studied for its effects on the skin:
1. Skin Brightening
Rice water may help temporarily brighten the skin and could potentially assist in evening out skin tone by inhibiting the activity of tyrosinase, an enzyme involved in melanin production [1], [7]. However, its effects are often transient, and more extensive clinical research is necessary to confirm significant, long-term reduction of dark spots or hyperpigmentation [4].
2. Hydration for Dry Skin
If you struggle with dry or dehydrated skin, rice water, particularly when fermented, has been shown to contain moisturising properties that help lock in hydration, leaving skin feeling soft and supple [1]. The starch content acts as a mild emollient.
3. Soothing Minor Irritation and Inflammation
Traditional use suggests its anti-inflammatory properties may help calm minor, temporary irritated skin and reduce superficial redness [4]. However, for conditions like moderate-to-severe acne or eczema, rice water should not replace medicated treatments. Always consult a dermatologist before using it on active flare-ups or broken skin [4].
4. Assists Against Environmental Stressors
The antioxidants found in rice water, such as ferulic acid, can help shield your skin from the harmful effects of free radicals caused by UV rays [7]. It is crucial to understand that rice water is NOT a substitute for broad-spectrum sunscreen and should only be used as an adjunct to your standard sun protection routine.
5. Potential for Reducing Signs of Ageing
Fermented rice water, in particular, is rich in antioxidants that have been studied for their ability to support skin elasticity and potentially help combat the signs of photoaging, such as fine lines and wrinkles [1], [5]. A study involving rice water extract found potential anti-aging efficacy, but these results need to be replicated in broader human clinical trials [1].
6. Mild Astringent Effects
Some users report that the application of chilled rice water helps give the skin a smoother appearance. While specific pore-tightening effects are not widely documented in formal studies, it can act as a mild, traditional astringent, contributing to a more balanced skin appearance [6].
Types of Rice Water and How to Prepare Them
Rice water can be used as a gentle and nourishing toner or rinse for your facial skin. Here are some simple methods to prepare it at home:
1. Boiling Rice Water (The Concentrated Method)
To make rice water by boiling, cook the rice with approximately double the amount of water you would normally use. Once the rice is cooked, strain the liquid into a clean jar and allow it to cool completely before use. This method creates a more potent, concentrated form that often requires dilution before use.
2. Soaking Rice Water (The Quick Method)
This is the simplest and fastest method. Simply rinse the rice thoroughly (to remove surface debris/contaminants) and then let it soak in clean water for about 30–60 minutes. Afterward, strain the starchy liquid and use it directly on your skin or store it for later.
3. Fermented Rice Water (The Antioxidant-Enhanced Method)
Fermented rice water involves an additional step after soaking the rice. Once you have soaked the rice and collected the water, leave it at room temperature for 1–2 days to allow natural fermentation. This process is believed to enhance the concentration of antioxidants and beneficial compounds like pitera, which may provide added benefits for skin elasticity and hydration [5]. Stop the fermentation and refrigerate the water once a slightly sour smell is detected.
How to Use Rice Water Safely on Your Face and Addressing Safety Concerns
Rice water is most commonly and effectively used as a gentle, natural facial toner or rinse due to its rich content of vitamins and minerals.
Application Methods
1. Facial Toner or Rinse
After cleansing, soak a cotton pad with the rice water and gently swipe it across your face and neck, or simply splash the rice water onto your skin. Use daily or every other day, as tolerated.
2. Soothing Face Mask
Soak a clean, thin sheet mask or a piece of sterile gauze in the rice water (you can dilute the boiled concentration if needed) and leave it on the face for 5 to 10 minutes before rinsing.
Important Safety & Usage Considerations
- Patch Test: Before applying rice water to your face, perform a patch test on a small area of your skin (e.g., behind the ear or inner forearm) for 24 hours to check for any allergic reaction or irritation.
- Storage and Shelf Life: Store homemade rice water in an airtight container in the refrigerator and discard it after 4–7 days to prevent bacterial growth.
- Potential for Irritation: While generally gentle, some individuals, especially those with very sensitive or dry skin, may experience dryness or a tightening sensation. If this occurs, try diluting the rice water with plain water.
- Contaminants Concern: Rice can absorb elements from the soil, including arsenic [2]. While the amount transferred to rice water is generally low, it is recommended to always use high-quality, well-rinsed rice [2]. If you have underlying health concerns, consult your physician before regular topical use.
Conclusion
Rice water has been shown to offer several potential benefits for the skin, including moisturising, soothing minor irritations, and possibly mitigating signs of ageing [1], [4], [5]. It is a generally safe, cost-effective, and traditional home remedy. While scientific evidence is limited, and further research is needed to fully confirm the magnitude of these benefits, rice water remains a popular and gentle addition to many skincare routines. It is best approached as a supportive skin treatment rather than a curative agent for chronic skin conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can we apply rice water on the face daily?
Yes, you can apply rice water daily, provided your skin tolerates it well. If you have sensitive skin or notice any dryness, start with alternate days to assess tolerance.
Does rice water whiten the skin?
Rice water may create temporary brightening or mild lightening effects due to its soothing properties and potential mild enzyme inhibition [7]. It does not permanently change your natural skin tone.
How do I make rice water for my skin?
The simplest method is soaking: Rinse the rice, soak it in water for 30–60 minutes, stir, then strain and collect the liquid for use.
How long should I leave rice water on my skin?
For best results, leave rice water on your skin for 10–20 minutes as a mask or rinse, or simply leave it on as a toner before applying moisturizer.
How do Koreans use rice water for skin?
In Korean beauty routines, rice water is often used as a cleansing rinse or a toner to brighten and soothe the skin and promote a smoother texture [6].
Can rice water remove dark circles?
While rice water can help soothe and brighten the overall skin, there is no specific scientific evidence confirming that it can effectively remove underlying dark circles, which are often caused by vascular or genetic factors.
Can rice water remove tan?
Rice water may mildly help fade tans by providing a soothing and potentially melanin-inhibiting effect on the skin; however, results are temporary and vary significantly from person to person.
References
[1] Marto, J., Neves, Â., Gonçalves, L. M., Pinto, P., Almeida, C., & Simões, S. (2018). Rice Water: A Traditional Ingredient with Anti-Aging Efficacy. Cosmetics, 5(2), 26. https://doi.org/10.3390/cosmetics5020026
[2] Fendic Shano, H., Kumaran, T., Sherin Mary, T., Jenifer Tamizharasi, M., Rajila, R., Sujithra, S., & Beula Shiny. (2021). Nutritional analysis and antimicrobial activity of fermented rice water. Der Pharma Chemica, 13(7). https://www.derpharmachemica.com/pharma-chemica/nutritional-analysis-and-antimicrobial-activity-of-fermented-rice-water.pdf
[4] Zamil, D. H., Khan, R. M., Braun, T. L., & Nawas, Z. Y. (2022). Dermatological uses of rice products: Trend or true? Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 21(11), 6056–6060. https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.15099
[5] Yang, F., Hu, Y., Wu, M., Guo, M., & Wang, H. (2025). Biologically active components and skincare benefits of rice fermentation products: A review. Cosmetics, 12(1), 29. https://doi.org/10.3390/cosmetics12010029
[6] Kakekar, P., & Kazi, S. (n.d.). A Formulation of Rice Water Toner for use of Skin. International Journal of Pharmaceutical Research and Development. https://ijprdjournal.com/myapp/uploads/413-KAKEKAR%20PRADNYA%203257-3269.pdf
[7] Ha, S. J., Park, J., Lee, J., Song, K., Um, M. Y., Cho, S., & Jung, S. K. (2018). Rice bran supplement prevents UVB-induced skin photoaging in vivo. Bioscience Biotechnology and Biochemistry, 82(2), 320–328. https://doi.org/10.1080/09168451.2017.1417021
[8] Balakrishnaraja, R., Ranjith, G., Aniskumar, M., Vijayanand, P. S., & Vasan, P. T. (2023). Study on rice water composition and preparation of antidandruff shampoo against Malassezia species. IOP Conference Series Earth and Environmental Science, 1258(1), 012008. https://doi.org/10.1088/1755-1315/1258/1/012008