Rice water is a popular natural remedy in Asian beauty traditions for achieving glowing, glass-like skin. It’s rich in amino acids, vitamins (B1, B6, E), ferulic acid, and antioxidants, which help brighten, hydrate, and improve skin elasticity. Here’s how to make and use rice water effectively:
Key Benefits for Skin
- Brightens skin and evens tone by reducing pigmentation and dark spots due to kojic acid and vitamins.
- Hydrates and moisturizes skin, keeping it soft and supple without clogging pores.
- Tightens skin and minimizes pores by promoting collagen production, improving elasticity and firmness.
- Soothes inflammation and redness with anti-inflammatory compounds like allantoin, suitable for sensitive or acne-prone skin.
- Anti-aging effects by combating free radicals and reducing fine lines and wrinkles thanks to antioxidants such as ferulic acid and vitamin E.
Using rice water regularly as part of your skincare routine can help you achieve the coveted “glass skin” look – clear, luminous, and smooth skin with a natural glow.
This natural, affordable remedy harnesses the rich nutrients in rice water to nourish and transform your skin, making it a trusted beauty secret across cultures
How to Make Rice Water
There are two main methods to prepare rice water: soaking and fermenting. The fermented version is often considered more potent for skin benefits.
1. Soaked Rice Water
Ingredients:
½ cup uncooked rice (preferably organic white or brown rice), 2-3 cups water.
Steps:
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- Rinse the rice thoroughly to remove dirt and impurities.
- Place the rice in a bowl and add 2-3 cups of clean water.
- Stir and let it soak for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Strain the water into a clean bowl or bottle using a sieve or muslin cloth.
- Optional: Dilute with an equal amount of water if it feels too starchy.
Storage:
Store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
2. Fermented Rice Water (More Potent)
Ingredients:
Same as above.
Steps:
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- Follow the soaking method steps 1-3.
- After soaking, strain the water into a clean container.
- Let the rice water sit at room temperature for 12-24 hours to ferment (it will smell slightly sour).
- Once fermented, transfer to the refrigerator to stop fermentation.
Storage:
Use within 3-4 days when refrigerated.
Note: Fermented rice water has higher antioxidant content but test for sensitivity, as it’s stronger.
How to Use Rice Water for Glowing & Glass Skin
1. Basic Rice Water (Fermented for Best Results)
Ingredients & Steps:
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- Rinse½ cup of white rice (preferably organic) to remove impurities.
- Soakthe rice in 2 cups of filtered water for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Strainthe water into a clean bowl—this is your plain rice water.
- For fermented rice water (more potent):
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- Transfer the strained water to a jar, cover loosely, and let it sit at room temperature for 12–24 hours(until slightly sour).
- Refrigerate to stop fermentation (lasts up to 1 week).
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Why Fermented?
Fermentation increases pitera (a byproduct rich in skin-repairing nutrients) and enhances brightening effects .
2. Rice Water Toner (For Daily Use)
How to Apply:
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- After cleansing, soak a cotton pad in rice water and swipe it over your face, neck, and décolletage.
- Leave it on for 10–15 minutes, then rinse (optional) or follow with moisturizer.
- Frequency:Use daily for brighter, smoother skin .
Benefits:
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- Brightensdull skin (thanks to ferulic acid and inositol).
- Tightens poresand balances pH .
3. Rice Water Face Mask (For Instant Glow)
Recipe:
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- Mix 2 tbsp rice water+ 1 tbsp honey + 1 tsp aloe vera gel.
- Apply for 15–20 minutes, then rinse.
Bonus: Honey adds hydration, while aloe soothes irritation .
4. Rice Water & Green Tea Mist (For Refreshing Hydration)
Recipe:
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- Mix equal parts rice water and brewed green tea (cooled).
- Store in a spray bottle and mist throughout the day.
Why It Works:
Green tea’s EGCG fights inflammation, while rice water locks in moisture .
5. Rice Water Ice Cubes (For Pore Tightening)
Method:
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- Freeze rice water in ice trays and gently rub cubes on cleansed skin for 5–10 seconds
Effect:
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- Reduces redness, tightens pores, and boosts circulation .
6. Rice Water Bath (For Full-Body Glow)
How to Use:
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- Add 2 cups of fermented rice waterto your bathwater and soak for 15 minutes.
Skin Benefits:
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- Softens skin and improves texture .
Pro Tips for Best Results:
✔ Use white or jasmine rice (avoid brown rice—it’s harder to ferment).
✔ Patch test first (some skin types may react to fermentation).
✔ Pair with sunscreen (rice water enhances sun sensitivity slightly).
✔ Consistency matters: Use for 4–6 weeks for visible brightening.
For glass skin, layer rice water with a hydrating serum (like hyaluronic acid) and occlusive moisturizer to lock in glow .