5 Benefits of Rice Water for Your Skin

Soothes Irritated Skin

Rice water is known to have a soothing effect on dry, irritated, and sunburned skin. It helps reduce moisture loss and prevent itching and flaking caused by harsh skincare products containing alcohol or sulfates. Some people claim that rice water helps with eczema, acne, and some other skin conditions. However, if you have a skin condition, you should consult your dermatologist before applying any homemade remedies.

Has Skin Lightening Properties

Although rice water won’t help you get rid of hyperpigmentation or acne scars, it does reduce redness and lighten the skin to a certain degree. Try using rice water for a brighter complexion and a more even skin tone.

Rich in Antioxidants

Rice contains antioxidants that inhibit the action of free radicals and therefore slow down the process of skin aging. It also reduces the activity of elastase, an enzyme that breaks down elastin and makes the skin lose its firmness. Washing your face with rice water twice a day can help delay the signs of premature skin aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots.

Has a Mattifying Effect

Due to containing starch, rice water has a mattifying effect when used on oily and combination skin. It helps balance the skin, reduces the visibility of pores, and prevents greasy shine caused by excess skin oil.

Protects the Skin Barrier

One of the greatest things about rice water is that it doesn’t strip your skin of protective oils; on the contrary, it helps repair and improve your skin’s natural barrier which protects it from various harmful environmental factors.

How to Make and Use Rice Water

There are three main ways to prepare rice water: boiling, soaking, and fermenting. They all require rinsing the rice thoroughly and draining it before proceeding. You can use any type of rice you have.

• Boiling: mix 1 part rice to 4 parts water and bring to a boil. Remove from the heat, let sit for several minutes, strain the water into an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to a week.
• Soaking: mix 1 part rice to 4 parts water, let soak for at least half an hour. Press the rice with a spoon to release nutrients. Strain the water into an airtight container and refrigerate.
• Fermenting: mix 1 part rice to 4 parts water, let soak for at least half an hour. Instead of refrigerating, leave at room temperature for a couple of days. When the water starts to smell sour, refrigerate it.

If you boiled or fermented rice water, you need to dilute it with plain water before using. Rice water prepared by soaking is less concentrated and therefore does not need diluting. You can use rice water to wash your face or apply it to your face and neck as a toner. If you’re a fan of DIY face masks, you can use rice water as a substitute for plain water, green tea, or other liquid ingredients.