*Collaborative post.
In several Asian cultures, rice is considered the staple source of carbohydrates which is often paired with meat and vegetable dishes. For centuries, the water used in making rice has been collected and used as a multipurpose beauty ingredient for skin and hair care. It is also used by several people to relieve stomach problems, fever, and other bacterial infections.
While the ingredient has been used for centuries, and several companies like Missha have noticed its effects and have done added research in making them into serums and toners. In fact, there were studies on how sake or rice wine makers tend to have smoother and more youthful looking hands compared to others which many concluded is the power of the antioxidants rice water contain coupled with the fermentation process.
Today, plain rice water can be used in many beauty regimens whether it be bought or obtained by hand. The type of rice doesn’t really matter so long as the person isn’t adding any chemicals into the concoction. If you are curious on how they can greatly benefit your skin in particular, here are some known benefits that this simple ingredient provides:
Used with cleansing
Washing your face with rice water paired with your cleanser ensures a porcelain finish that lightens and brightens your skin almost instantly while giving you a smooth, soft, and seemingly flawless skin tone.
As a toner
You can also use toner after washing your face by dabbing your cotton pad and immediately applying it to cleansed skin. The result would be that it helps minimizes pores and tightens your skin, leaving it firm and more elastic within a week.
Acne treatment
People who are prone to acne may use rice water as a topical solution. Simply apply it over the acne area with a cotton ball which results in less redness. You can also mix equal portions of rice water, bentonite clay, and activate charcoal to make a DIY face mask. Leave it on your face for 20 minutes and wash off with warm water to reduce inflammation.
Treat eczema
Aside from acne, rice water can treat eczema which is a common skin condition characterized by bumpy rashes anywhere on the skin. For a more effective treatment, mix rice water with apple cider vinegar in a bottle. Dab on the solution with a cotton pad and massage it into the area to soothe and dry out the bumps.
Face mist
Throughout the day, the skin often suffers from stress causing factors which may be a result of work or several tasks that many have to deal with. For an instant lift, simply spray your face with rice water and let it sit for a few moments for absorption. You’ll have visibly brighter and more youthful looking skin. Additionally, if you are looking to save some money on serums, you can bottle your own rice water and use it daily.
Soothes sunburns
Rice water offers cooling properties that can be used to treat sunburns. Immediately apply to the skin to prevent it from becoming worse over time. You can also use aloe vera for its hydrating and extra cooling properties.
There is no doubt that there is no shortage to the numerous benefits that rice water provides. As a natural antioxidant source and soothing element, you too can make your own rice water. Here are some steps to follow:
- Grab a bowl of uncooked rice and wash it with cold water. You need to do this for three times until the remaining water is clean.
- Boil the rice or use a rice cooker and wait for it to be completely finished.
- Drain the boiled water in a pot and pour it into another container. Make sure there are no grains left in the water.
- Let it cool and store it in a glass jar for future use.
While there are several ways to gather rice water (soaked, after cooking, and fermented). The easiest to obtain would be to use the cooked rice water version as it helps eliminate potential bacteria that the grains may have collected during harvest. Like most skin care products, one should always perform a patch test, especially if they have sensitive skin types. To do this, simple dab some water on your wrist and wait for any redness or signs of allergy. For added safety, consult with your dermatologist to see if rice water is generally safe for use. Don’t forget to use SPF after your regimen to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays.
