Many people swear by the traditional practice of washing the face with rice water, claiming it can transform the skin and soften visible lines. While dramatic promises such as “erasing wrinkles completely” cannot be confirmed with scientific certainty, rice water does contain compounds that may support smoother, brighter, and more elastic skin. Below is a friendly, clear guide to help you understand how it works and how to use it safely at home—without any unhealthy ingredients.
Why Rice Water Helps the Skin
Current scientific evidence is limited, so no guaranteed anti-aging effect can be claimed. However, researchers have noted that:
- Rice contains antioxidants, such as ferulic acid and certain phenolic compounds. Antioxidants may help protect the skin barrier, but I cannot confirm that they directly remove wrinkles.
- Rice starch has soothing properties, which may improve the feeling of firmness and smoothness.
- Some studies indicate that rice water can reduce irritation and support the skin barrier, particularly for sensitive skin, but results vary and are not conclusive.
How to Make Pure, Healthy Rice Water
You only need two ingredients—rice and water.
Ingredients
- ½ cup white or brown rice (unseasoned, unfortified)
- 2 cups clean drinking water
Steps
- Rinse the rice once to remove dust.
- Place it in a bowl and cover with the 2 cups of water.
- Let it soak for 30–40 minutes.
- Stir the rice gently, then strain the liquid.
- Store the rice water in the fridge for up to 3 days.
How to Use It on Your Skin
- After cleansing your face, apply the rice water using a cotton pad.
- Let it absorb naturally; no need to rinse.
- Use once daily for a gentle, natural boost to the skin’s appearance.
What Results to Expect
Rice water can make the skin feel smoother, calmer, and more hydrated. Some people notice a subtle tightening effect. However, I cannot confirm that it will make wrinkles “disappear,” as this claim has no strong scientific evidence behind it.
Still, as a simple, natural routine, rice water can be a pleasant and beneficial addition to daily skincare—gentle, clean, and easy to prepare.
