After sharing my 5-star tips to boost skin hydration in this postI'm back with another great find – this time, an ancient beauty ritual that has been transforming my skin for the last two years. Not only does it leave my skin more hydrated, but it also visibly brightens my face. And the best part? It's super simple, affordable and practically free. A humble ingredient that many people already have in their kitchen.
Cue the drumroll…
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It's rice water.
That white, slightly thick liquid that remains after washing, soaking or cooking rice has been a traditional beauty secret in East and Southeast Asian countries for centuries. In this post, I'll tell you all about the benefits of rice water for the skin and how to prepare it at home.
Benefits of Rice Water
Rice water is rich in
- Amino acids
- Inositol (a carbohydrate that helps cell regeneration)
- Phenolic antioxidants such as ferulic acid
- Vitamins B and E, minerals and trace elements
💡 TIP: when fermented, rice water enhances its benefits – more antioxidant, moisturizing, anti-inflammatory and anti-aging action (MDPI).
How to make rice water (including fermented)
1. infusion method (gentler):
- Wash ½ cup of organic white rice.
- Soak in 2 to 3 cups of filtered or distilled water for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
- Stir well and strain the water.
- Store in the fridge for up to 5-7 days.
2. Boiled method (more concentrated):
- Wash the rice.
- Cook with plenty of water (1:5 ratio, for example).
- Remove some of the starchy water halfway through cooking.
- Let cool and store in the fridge (5-7 days).
3. Fermented (more potent and acidic) - my favorite form:
- Use the soaked rice method.
- Leave the sealed liquid at room temperature for 24-48 hours until it turns slightly sour.
- Then store in the fridge. If you like, dilute in a 1:1 ratio to reduce the acidity.
How to use
- As a tonic (with absorbent cotton or directly with your hands)
- As a facial spray (in a spray bottle)
- As a mask (leave on for 10-15 minutes and rinse off) – I apply it with thin cotton pads, like the one you can find ahere
- Boosting sheet masks or clay masks
- As a base for homemade lotions or creams
Important precautions
- Do a touch test first (e.g. inner forearm for 24 hours)
- Always store in the fridge and discard if the smell or appearance changes too much
- Avoid using too much, especially the fermented version - 2 to 3 times a week is enough
- Dilute if your skin is sensitive
- Does not replace medical treatment for serious skin diseases
Final Thoughts
Homemade rice water is one of the easiest ways to add glow to your skin. It’s particularly soothing for those with rosacea or sensitivity, helping calm redness while boosting hydration. When I was in Brazil earlier this year, I got my mum hooked on it during the peak of summer. We kept it chilled in the fridge, and trust me—on those hot, sticky days, splashing it on your face felt like heaven. And if you’re a rice lover like me, the subtle, comforting scent will make the ritual even more enjoyable.
Let me know if you give it a try—or if you already use it, share your favorite way below!
Until the next sip,
Notes:
This content is based on my experience and does not replace the advice of a doctor.
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