Should You Try Rice Water for Skin? Here’s What to Know:
Rice water for skin isn’t just a new trend making waves online. It’s something that has been passed down through generations, used by our great-grandmothers, grandmothers, and even our moms. Chances are, you've used it at least once, too. Back then, skincare didn’t come in fancy bottles. Everything came straight from the kitchen, and rice was one of their favorites.
But the real question is, how did they use it? Well, there were many ways. Some soaked the rice, some boiled it, and others let it ferment. It’s amazing to think how our elders, without any modern tools, knew exactly what worked. And today, many of the products we see on shelves are simply inspired by their homegrown methods.
Rice water is often used as a gentle remedy for the skin. People turn to it especially during winter, as it can feel hydrating and soothing, particularly for dry skin.
Let’s pause here for a moment, because there’s still so much more to explore. If this blog feels familiar and comforting, you’re in the right place. Keep reading.
Benefits of Rice Water for Skin
Skincare remedies have always been a part of our daily lives, and rice water is one that our mothers often recommended. We’ve seen them apply it not just to their skin but to their hair as well. And this isn’t limited to India; the benefits of rice water for skin are well known in East and Southeast Asia, where it's still a regular part of beauty routines.

This cloudy, starchy water remains popular because it’s easy to prepare, gentle on the skin, and fits well into simple, everyday care. Whether you have dry skin, dullness, or just want something light and refreshing, rice water can be a great addition to your routine.
Here are the detailed benefits of rice water for skin:
1. Hydrates Dry Skin
Rice water is often used for dry skin to help it feel soft and nourished. It’s preferred because it doesn’t feel heavy on the skin and can be applied as a toner to keep your skin feeling refreshed and hydrated throughout the day.
2. Gives a Brighter Appearance
One of the changes often noticed after applying rice water, and something many grandmothers have shared, is the natural glow it brings to the skin. With regular use, it may help the skin look more even-toned.
3. Soothes Irritation
If you’re exposed to too much sun or harsh weather conditions, applying rice water to the skin gives a calming feel, as it is often used as a cold compress to help keep the skin at ease.
4. Tightens Pores
Most people nowadays use rice water as a toner to help their skin feel smoother. Dabbing rice water gently on the face gives a refreshed look and may reduce the appearance of enlarged pores.
5. Supports a Youthful Look
Using rice water in your skincare routine helps the skin stay hydrated and firm. Older individuals often include it in their routines for its anti-aging benefits. With regular use, it gives a more youthful appearance over time.
6. Helps with Oily Skin
If you have oily skin and often feel greasy, applying rice water to your face can help. It may assist in absorbing excess oil, leaving your skin looking more balanced.
7. Can Be Used After Sun Exposure
If your skin is exposed to the sun on a daily basis, gently applying rice water can help reduce the feeling of heat and provide a sense of relief.
8. Improves Skin Texture
Consistency gives results. Likewise, applying rice water to your skin can give it a smoother feel and a softer look. It can also be used as a gentle exfoliant to improve overall skin texture.
9. Used as a Natural Cleanser
Rice water also works as a natural cleanser. It can be used as the first step in your skincare routine or as the final application after cleansing. It helps remove leftover dirt or oil from the skin and can be used daily.
10. Supports Skin Barrier
We are exposed to pollution and weather changes on a daily basis, but we don’t always have time to follow a full skincare routine. Soaking or boiling rice and applying the water regularly can help support the skin’s natural barrier.
How To Make Rice Water for Skin on Your Own?
There are three main methods of preparing rice water for skin:
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Soaking: Soak a cup of rice in 3 cups of water for 30–45 minutes. Take a clean bowl and strain the water into it. You can use the rice water immediately or store it in a container and keep it in the refrigerator. Use it as needed.
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Boiling: Take a cup of rice and add double the amount of water. Boil it until the water turns slightly thick. Then, strain the water into a clean bowl. You can use it once it cools down, or store it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator.
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Fermentation: For the fermentation process, follow the same soaking method, but store the water in a container and leave it at room temperature for 1–2 days before placing it in the refrigerator.
Best Rice Water Skincare Products We Have On Distacart.com:

If you're planning to use products that contain rice water along with ingredients like niacinamide or hyaluronic acid, that’s a great way to boost your skincare routine. These added ingredients work well together and can help keep your skin feeling balanced and well cared for. Rice water for skin already comes with its own set of gentle benefits, and when combined with other skin-loving ingredients, it only gets better.
Here are the top-selling rice water for skin products on Distacart.com:
1. Mamaearth Rice Facial Kit With Rice Water & Niacinamide - Kit
This kit consists of:
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Rice Cleansing Milk 10ml
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Rice Face Scrub 10gm
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Rice Soothing Gel 10 ml
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Rice Massage Cream 10 gm
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Rice Face Mask 10 gm
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Rice Glow Cream 10 gm
2. Dot & Key 72 Hr Hydrating Probiotic Face Gel With Hyaluronic Acid, Kombucha & Rice Water - 60 ml
3. Mamaearth Rice Oil-Free Face Moisturizer With Rice Water & Niacinamide - 80 gm
4. Glamveda Rice Water Fairness Foaming Face Wash - 150 ml
Wrapping Up:
Now you know why rice water is used so much in skincare. It has been around for many years and was trusted by our grandmothers. Today, many skincare brands are using rice water in their products because of its long-time traditional use.
You can either use plain rice water at home or try products that have rice water along with other helpful ingredients. If you want to explore rice water skincare products, you can check them out on Distacart.com.