Rice water is the Internet’s answer to clear skin

What can’t this miracle liquid do?

Content Producer / November 03 2023

You’ve heard of using rice water for the hair, but now TikTokers claim the miracle elixir is a clear skin saviour.

A byproduct obtained when rice is rinsed or boiled, rice water has been an age-old beauty secret in various cultures around the world, particularly in Asia. Used for centuries by women in these regions to maintain a clear complexion and lustrous hair, social media users have recently rediscovered its skin benefits.

How does rice water work?

Rice water is the starchy liquid left behind after rice has been rinsed or boiled. This ‘miracle liquid’ is packed with nutrients such as vitamins B and E, inositol (a reparative carbohydrate), amino acids, and ferulic acid.

As discovered through the age-old beauty practice of rice washes, the high starch content of rice water can help increase skin’s moisture levels, reduce the size of pores and promote an even skin tone when applied to the skin.

Ferulic acid and allantoin, also found in rice water, also have skin brightening properties which may aid in enhancing the skin’s overall brightness.

How to use rice water on the skin

Rice water is best used in place of a toner. Apply it directly to the skin with a spray bottle or soaked cotton pad.

“The key is to stay consistent,” Tiktok user @thatssotee says.

“Do it morning and night and don’t forget to put it back into the fridge.”


How to make rice water

Note: Individual responses may vary. Always patch test before trying any new treatment.

Rice water is relatively simple to make. The method most commonly used is the boiling method in which you’ll only need ½ cup of uncooked rice and 2-3 cups of water.

Steps

1. Rinse the rice: First, rinse the rice with about a cup of water to remove any dirt or impurities
2. Boil: Add the rinsed rice to a pot of water and bring it to a boil.
3. Strain: Once the rice is cooked, strain out the water. This liquid is a concentrated form of rice water.
4. Place into a spray bottle and keep it stored in the fridge. Make sure to replace it after four to five days.

Main image credit: Getty

Explore more TikTok beauty trends here

Olga is BEAUTYcrew's Content Producer. When she's not writing about beauty, she's probably watching endless TikTok videos about the topic. Her extra one per cent of brain space is reserved for her two poodles. She can be easily bribed with a good blush or lip tint (take notes, please).