Rice water, derived from the starchy water left over after soaking or boiling rice, has recently gained popularity in modern skincare routines. Rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and amino acids, rice water is known for its ability to soothe, hydrate, and rejuvenate the skin, hair, and scalp.
Rice water is a powerhouse of nutrients that can transform your beauty routine. It contains vitamins B, C, and E, along with ferulic acid and inositol, which work together to protect skin cells from oxidative stress and reduce inflammation. Research suggests that these antioxidants help improve skin elasticity, reduce fine lines, and even soothe irritated skin. When applied to the scalp, rice water can help balance pH levels, strengthen hair roots, and diminish dandruff, making it a versatile, natural remedy for overall skin and hair health.
7 Ways to use rice water for skin
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Cleanse: Use rice water as a gentle cleanser to remove impurities and excess oil without stripping your skin’s natural moisture. Its natural enzymes help break down sebum and unclog pores, ensuring a thorough yet delicate cleansing process. Regular use can lead to a balanced complexion and a smoother, more radiant skin texture.
Tone: Apply rice water with a cotton pad after cleansing to help tighten pores and restore your skin’s pH balance. This natural toner soothes and refreshes the skin, reducing redness and irritation. With consistent application, you may notice a more even skin tone and a refined appearance.
Moisturise: Mix rice water with a few drops of your favorite essential oil or aloe vera gel to create a light, hydrating moisturiser. This blend provides essential hydration without feeling heavy or greasy on your skin. It leaves your skin soft, supple, and perfectly balanced.
Exfoliate: Combine rice water with a natural exfoliant like sugar or gram flour (besan) to form a gentle scrub that sloughs away dead skin cells. The mild abrasion helps reveal a brighter complexion while nourishing your skin with nutrients. Regular exfoliation using this method can lead to smoother, more refined skin over time.
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Mask: Soak a cotton pad in rice water and apply it as a face mask for an extra boost of hydration and soothing benefits. This mask helps calm irritated skin and minimises redness while providing a burst of essential nutrients. Allow it to sit for a few minutes to deeply nourish your skin and promote a natural glow.
Compress: Dampen a clean cloth with rice water and use it as a compress to calm irritated or inflamed areas of your skin. The cooling effect provides immediate relief for sensitive or sunburned skin. Over time, this technique can help reduce inflammation and enhance your skin’s comfort.
Steam: Add rice water to your facial steamer or bowl of hot water to enhance your steam treatment, opening up pores and boosting skin clarity. The warm steam helps the rice water penetrate deeply, offering better hydration and nutrient absorption. This method also improves blood circulation, resulting in a more refreshed and luminous complexion.
Also read | 8 reasons why rice water is the best-kept Korean skincare secret
Soothe: Apply rice water to sunburned or irritated skin to provide a cooling effect and reduce inflammation. Its gentle formula calms redness and alleviates the discomfort of sun-exposed skin. With regular use, rice water can accelerate the healing process and restore a sense of relief to sensitive areas.
Detox: Rice water’s mild astringent properties help draw out impurities from the skin, promoting a clearer, more refined appearance. This natural detoxification process unclogs pores and minimises blackheads over time. Incorporating rice water into your routine can result in a noticeably smoother and healthier complexion.
Refresh: Keep a spray bottle filled with rice water in your bag and spritz when needed for an instant, refreshing pick-me-up that revitalises your complexion. The fine mist instantly hydrates and cools your skin, making it perfect for on-the-go use. This quick refresh helps maintain your skin’s radiance and ensures a lasting glow all day long.
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