How to Make Rice Water for Skin: A Comprehensive Guide
by Dr. Jonathan Doyle - Updated January 22, 2025
Rice water has been utilized for centuries in various cultures, especially in Asia,
as a remedy for skin and hair health. In recent years, this simple, natural beauty treatment has gained
popularity worldwide, including in Canada.
This article will provide a detailed explanation on how to make rice water for
skin, the benefits it offers, and how you can incorporate it into your skincare routine. With minimal
ingredients and effort, rice water is an accessible solution to enhance your skin’s health and appearance.
What is Rice Water?
Rice water is the starchy liquid extracted from rice after it has been washed or
boiled. This water contains an array of nutrients such as amino acids, antioxidants, and vitamins that
contribute to its skin benefits.
In particular, rice water is rich in inositol , a carbohydrate that promotes cell regeneration
and provides anti-aging properties. Throughout history, women in regions like Japan and China have used rice
water to improve the appearance of their skin, and today, its use has spread globally as an effective, low-cost
beauty treatment.
The Benefits of Rice Water for Skin
The inclusion of rice water in your skincare regimen can yield numerous benefits.
Its ability to nourish, hydrate, and soothe the skin makes it a popular choice for many people looking to
improve their complexion. Below are some key advantages:
Soothing Skin Inflammation
Rice water possesses anti-inflammatory properties, making it
particularly useful for calming irritated skin. It is effective in treating conditions such as eczema, acne, and
sunburn, providing relief from redness and discomfort.
Brightening the Skin
Due to its antioxidant content, rice water can help to reduce the appearance of
dark spots and pigmentation. This leads to a more even skin tone, giving the skin a natural glow and enhancing
its radiance over time.
Hydration and Moisture
Rice water is rich in essential nutrients like Vitamin E, which helps maintain skin
hydration. Regular use can result in skin that feels softer and more moisturized, preventing dryness and
promoting a healthy appearance.
Related: Why My
Throat Is Dry Even When I Drink Water ?
Minimizing Pores
The astringent properties of rice water assist in tightening pores, leading to a
smoother, more refined skin texture. This can help reduce the visibility of enlarged pores and create a more
polished complexion.
Collagen Production
The amino acids present in rice water encourage collagen synthesis . Collagen is a
vital protein that contributes to the skin’s elasticity and firmness, helping to maintain a youthful appearance.
How to Make Rice Water for Skin: Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating rice water at home is straightforward, requiring minimal ingredients and
tools. Below are several methods you can use to make rice water for your skin.
Method 1: Soaking Method
The soaking method is the simplest and most commonly used way to prepare rice
water. It is quick and easy, making it an ideal option for those looking for a fast skincare solution.
Ingredients
- cup of rice preferably organic
- cups of water
Instructions:
- Rinse the rice thoroughly to remove any dirt or impurities.
- Place the rice in a clean bowl and pour in the reverse osmosis water.
- Let the rice soak for approximately minutes. Stir the rice occasionally to help release the starch into the water.
- After minutes, strain the rice to separate the water from the rice. The water should appear cloudy, indicating that it contains the beneficial nutrients extracted from the rice.
- Store the rice water in a clean, airtight container. It is now ready to be applied to your skin.
Method 2: Boiling Method
The boiling method extracts more nutrients from the rice, resulting in a richer and
more potent rice water solution. This method is ideal if you wish to maximize the effectiveness of rice water.
Ingredients:
- cup of rice
- cups of filtered water
For more information about getting filtered water, please click: Best Water
Filtration System for Home .
Instructions:
- Begin by washing the rice thoroughly.
- Bring cups of water to a boil in a pot.
- Add the rice to the boiling water and allow it to cook for approximately minutes.
- Once the rice is cooked, strain the water into a clean container, ensuring it has cooled to room temperature before using.
- This boiled rice water is now ready for use in your skincare routine.
Method 3: Fermented Rice Water
Fermented rice water is known for its enhanced antioxidant properties. The
fermentation process increases the potency of the rice water, making it more beneficial for the skin. If you are
looking for a more intensive treatment, this method is an excellent choice.
Ingredients:
- cup of rice
- cups of filtered water
Instructions:
- Rinse the rice to remove any impurities.
- Add the rice to a clean bowl and pour in the filtered water.
- Allow the rice to soak for hours in a warm environment, giving it time to ferment.
- After hours, strain the rice water into a container.
- The fermented rice water is now ready for use, and its enhanced properties make it particularly beneficial for your skin.
How to Use Rice Water for Skin
Now that you have prepared your rice water, you may be wondering how to incorporate
it into your daily skincare routine. Below are several ways to effectively use rice water for your skin:
1. As a Face Toner
Rice water can be used as a natural toner to refresh and tighten your skin. After
cleansing your face, apply rice water to a cotton ball or pad and gently apply it to your skin. This will help
to remove any leftover impurities, tighten pores, and restore the skin’s pH balance .
2. As a Face Mask
For a more intensive treatment, rice water can be combined with other natural
ingredients to create a nourishing face mask. Try mixing rice water with honey, yogurt, or turmeric to form a
paste. Apply the mask to your face and leave it on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing it off with lukewarm water.
This will leave your skin feeling refreshed and deeply nourished.
3. As a Hydrating Mist
Rice water can also be transferred into a spray bottle for a convenient, on-the-go
hydrating mist. Use it throughout the day to refresh your skin and provide a quick burst of hydration,
especially in dry or heated environments.
4. As a Soothing Compress
If you are experiencing inflamed or sunburned skin, rice water can be used as a
soothing compress. Soak a clean cloth in rice water and apply it to the affected area for 10-15 minutes. This
will help reduce redness and irritation, providing much-needed relief.
Storing Rice Water
If you have made a larger batch of rice water than you can use in one sitting, you
can store it for future use:
- Refrigeration: Keep rice water in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will remain fresh for up to days.
- Freezing: If you wish to store rice water for a longer period, you can freeze it in ice cube trays. Once frozen, you can use individual cubes as needed for skincare treatments.
Summary
Making rice water for your skin is an easy and effective way to incorporate a
natural, affordable remedy into your skincare routine. Whether you are looking to hydrate, brighten, or soothe
your skin, rice water offers a multitude of benefits. By following the simple steps outlined in this guide, you
can create your own rice water at home and enjoy its many advantages. With regular use, rice water can help you
achieve healthier, more radiant skin—naturally.
