They say that the simplest solution is almost always the best. This applies not only to your life problems but also to your skin care issues. Take the example of rice water. Most of us throw away the water left over after washing or cooking rice, but little do we realize that the starchy water is a solution to many skin care woes!
Well, that starchy water has been a part of Korean and Japanese beauty culture for ages. Recently, skin care enthusiasts have discovered the wonders of rice water. The best thing about it is that you can prepare it at home easily. In this article, we have discussed how rice water is good for your skin and the process to prepare it at home. Keep reading.
Is It Good For Your Skin?
Rice is not just a food staple in Asian cuisine, it is also an integral part of Asian beauty and skin care practices. Japanese and Korean women have been using rice water as a skin care and hair care product for centuries. In fact, if you take some time to go through the ingredients list of any K-beauty product, you will almost certainly find rice water in it. Many brands have also come up with entire ranges of rice water skin care products.
Not many studies have been conducted on the benefits of rice water for skin. Most of the benefits are based on anecdotal evidence that has not been verified by scientists. Regardless, let’s explore what it can do for your skin.
1. Anti-Aging Benefits
A study evaluated the effects of a gel formulation containing rice water on human skin. The study involved 12 volunteers who used the formulation for 28 days. It was found that rice water was loaded with antioxidants that could inhibit the activity of elastase (an enzyme that damages elastin). Thus, it could help maintain the elasticity of the skin and slow down the signs of aging.
2. Skin Brightening Effect
This benefit of rice water has not been scientifically proven. However, people in Korea and Japan use rice water to minimize blemishes and brighten their skin. It is assumed that rice water may contain some enzymes that have a skin brightening effect. This is why it is used as an active ingredient in soaps and creams.
3. Protects The Skin Barrier
When the natural barrier of your skin is compromised, it becomes dry and vulnerable to skin conditions like atopic dermatitis. A study found that rice starch could help improve and repair the natural barrier of the skin. This is especially beneficial for people who have atopic dermatitis. This function of rice water may also be beneficial for managing eczema, rashes, and inflammation.
4. Soothes Sunburn
Rice water feels soothing on sunburned skin. Many people find it extremely beneficial for treating mild symptoms of sunburn, such as redness, inflammation, and itching.
When applied on the skin, starchy rice water also has a tightening and toning effect. This could be especially beneficial for people with oily skin.
There is limited evidence supporting the effect of rice water on the skin. However, since it is devoid of chemicals and suitable for all skin types, there is no harm in giving it a try. If you want to try it out, check out how to prepare rice water at home in the next section.
How To Prepare Rice Water At Home: A Detailed Guide
There are several ways to prepare rice water. You can soak and cook the rice before extracting the water, or you can use the fermenting process. Choose the one that is easier for you.
1. The Soaking Method (The Quickest Way To Prepare Rice Water)
- Take a cup of rice (about 100 g). You may choose any variety of rice.
- Give it a quick rinse to clean it.
- Pour three cups of water (about 500 ml to 700 ml) into a bowl.
- Soak the rice in the water for 30 minutes.
- Use your fingers to gently stir and press down the rice.
- Strain the rice and collect the water in a glass bottle.
- Refrigerate it.
You can store rice water in the refrigerator for a week. After this period, you will have to prepare another batch. You can use this rice water on your skin and hair. You can use it as a toner or add it to a DIY face pack.
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