In the world of skincare, few DIY remedies have stood the test of time quite like rice water. From ancient Japanese traditions to viral trends, this milky liquid has earned a reputation for being gentle, brightening, and budget-friendly. But does rice water actually live up to the hype? We asked Dr Mohammed Thalha, a consultant dermatologist at Kaya Skin Clinic, if rice water is actually good for your skin. Here’s what he said.

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The science behind rice water

Rice water contains a cocktail of skin-loving compounds: ferulic acid (a powerful antioxidant), inositol (which may help reduce hyperpigmentation), amino acids, and allantoin. These components offer various skin benefits, including brightening, calming, and mild exfoliation. But don’t expect miracles overnight.

“There’s anecdotal evidence and small-scale studies suggesting that rice water can help even out skin tone and improve texture over time,” Dr Thalha explains. However, he also mentioned that most studies have focused on rice bran extracts or fermented rice water, which are more potent than plain soaked rice water. He further added that it may also offer a temporary glow. However, Dr Thalha cautions: “The glow you see is mostly surface-level and rice water doesn’t target melanin production or deep skin damage.” In other words, rice water is helpful but not a substitute for clinical-grade ingredients.

If you’re looking for serious results, ingredients like niacinamide, vitamin C, and AHAs are still your best bet. Think of rice water as a gentle, natural booster, not the main event.

“Rice water can trigger irritation or breakouts”

Plain, freshly made rice water is usually well-tolerated by most skin types, even oily and acne-prone ones, thanks to its soothing and mildly astringent properties. But fermented rice water, which has a lower pH and stronger actives, can be a different story.

“Fermented rice water may be too acidic for sensitive or acne-prone skin,” warns Dr Thalha. “It can actually trigger irritation or breakouts if not used carefully.” A patch test is essential, especially if you’re dealing with conditions like rosacea or eczema. And skip it altogether during active flare-ups or if your skin is broken.

Rice water: Soaking vs fermenting

All rice water is not created equal. Soaking is the gentlest method and preserves antioxidants and amino acids. Boiled rice water contains more starch, which can be soothing but lacks some of the active compounds. Fermented rice water is more potent, but also more likely to irritate.

Fermented rice water is left at room temperature for 24–48 hours after straining, until it smells slightly sour. Always dilute fermented rice water with plain water (1:1) before use to reduce the risk of irritation.

As with most natural treatments, moderation is key. Using rice water two to three times a week strikes a good balance between consistency and gentleness. “Using it daily, especially if it’s fermented, can dry out your skin or cause sensitivity,” the doctor notes. If your skin starts to feel tight, red, or irritated, take a break or reduce frequency.

When to apply rice water

Rice water works best as a toner. Apply it after cleansing and before your serum or moisturiser. It can be used in your morning routine for a fresh, brightened look or in the evening to calm tired skin. If your skin is sensitive, consider using it as a rinse-off treatment instead of a leave-on product.

You can pair rice water with other actives like niacinamide without worry. These two complement each other well. “Niacinamide and rice water together are soothing, hydrating, and barrier-supportive,” says Dr Thalha. However, caution is needed with retinol. The low pH of fermented rice water can clash with retinol, potentially leading to irritation. To be safe, apply plain rice water first, wait 10–15 minutes, and then follow with your retinol or use them on alternate days.

Is DIY rice water better than skincare products?

While DIY rice water has its charm and benefits, it lacks the stability and potency of professional skincare products. “Formulated rice extract products are more consistent, effective, and safe,” the doctor says. They often contain stabilised rice extracts alongside proven actives, making them a better choice for those seeking real results.

Homemade rice water can spoil quickly. Since it contains organic matter, it’s prone to bacterial growth if left out for too long or improperly stored. Always keep it refrigerated and use within 2–3 days. “If it smells sour, looks cloudy, or has floating bits, discard it immediately. As a general rule of thumb, discard any unused portion after a maximum of three days,” Dr Thalha advises.

So, while rice water may help in brightening your skin, you shouldn’t rely on it completely for the best results. If you want to connect with dermatologist Dr Mohammed Thalha for more personalised skin and hair care advice, you can find them here.

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