- By Iram Hussain
- Mon, 04 Aug 2025 12:12 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
In numerous Asian cultures, rice is a ubiquitous part of daily life, frequently overlooked as a humble food staple yet possessing hidden benefits and uses beyond the dinner plate. This humble grain holds a secret that has been leveraged by Koreans for centuries to achieve radiant, glass-like skin. The liquid leftover from soaking or boiling rice, commonly discarded as kitchen waste is actually a treasure trove of nutrients. This unassuming liquid, known as rice water has been a prized beauty ingredient in Korean culture, coveted for its ability to impart a soft, supple and dewy glow to the skin.
Its significance extends beyond the kitchen, holding a special place in the realm of beauty and skincare. Let's unveil some incredible benefits of rice water for the skin that will surely compel you to add it to your skincare routine.
Benefits Of Rice Water For Skin
Anti-Inflammatory
Rice water's anti-inflammatory properties calm and soothe the skin and reduce puffiness, redness and irritation. It also alleviates conditions like eczema, psoriasis and accelerates wound healing, providing relief from various skin concerns.
Radiant Glow
Rich in antioxidants, rice water helps combat hyperpigmentation, scars and dark spots, gradually revealing a uniform complexion with consistent use. By reversing sun damage, it reveals a natural and radiant glow that emanates from within.
Anti-Ageing
Rice water's unique bio-physical structure harmonises with skin cells, making it an excellent skincare addition. It combats fine lines, tightens skin pores and reduces sun damage.
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Absorbs Excess Oil
It is a versatile toner that balances skin pH, tightens pores and absorbs excess oil, leaving skin feeling refreshed and non-greasy. Its astringent and cleansing properties also provide moisturising benefits without clogging pores.
Skin Natural Barrier
Rice water's nutrient-rich composition reinforces the skin's natural barrier, locking in moisture, soothing irritations and accelerating the healing process.
Lightens Scars And Spots
Its clarifying properties gently diminish the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation triggered by acne, UV rays and environmental stressors. It evens out skin tone and reduces discolouration, revealing glowing skin.
Rice water is a natural skincare tonic to achieve a natural glow (Image Credits: Canva)
How To Use Rice Water On Face?
Use It As Ice Cube
Mix rice water with fresh aloe vera gel for an extra dose of hydration. Freeze the mixture in ice cube trays and use the cubes as a natural gua sha tool, massaging your face morning and night to contour, calm and reap the benefits of rice water's nourishing properties.
ALSO READ: Rice Water Beauty Secret: How To Make It At Home For Glowing Skin And Healthy Hair
Use It As Toner
Transfer rice water to a clean serum bottle or spritzer and store it in the fridge. Use it as a toner to calm and balance your skin, minimising pores and revealing a brighter complexion with each refreshing application.
DIY Face Mask
Blend rice water with lemon juice and aloe vera pulp to create a nourishing face mask. Apply the paste and let it work it sit for 20-30 minutes to achieve healthy skin with improved texture and an even-toned complexion after rinsing.
Face Mist
Use rice water as a facial spray by filling a spray bottle and chilling it in the fridge, yielding a refreshing, cooling mist that hydrates, rejuvenates and perfects your complexion on the go.