Rice water, the milky liquid left behind after soaking or boiling rice, is a centuries-old beauty elixir cherished in Asian skincare and haircare rituals. Packed with vitamins B, C, and E, minerals, and amino acids, it nourishes the skin and strengthens the hair naturally. This humble ingredient helps brighten the complexion, tighten pores, and soothe irritation, while also promoting healthy, glossy, and strong hair.
Light, gentle, and chemical-free, rice water enhances natural beauty from head to toe — making it a perfect addition to any DIY skincare or haircare routine. Whether used as a toner, face mist, hair rinse, or mask, rice water offers a simple yet powerful way to achieve radiant skin and lustrous hair.
FOR SKIN
# Rice Water Toner (for glow and brightness)Ingredients:
½ cup rice water (fermented or plain)
2 drops of rose essential oil (optional)
How to Use:
After cleansing your face, apply rice water using a cotton pad.
Let it sit for 10–15 minutes and rinse or let it air dry.
Use daily for even-toned, glowing skin.
Benefit: Tightens pores, brightens complexion, and improves skin texture.
# Rice Water Face MistIngredients:
½ cup rice water
½ cup aloe vera gel or rose water
How to Use:
Mix and store in a spray bottle.
Spritz on your face 2–3 times a day for hydration and freshness.
Benefit: Soothes skin, controls oil, and reduces dullness.
# Rice Water & Honey Face Mask (for dry skin)Ingredients:
2 tbsp rice water
1 tbsp honey
How to Use:
Mix into a paste and apply evenly on your face.
Leave for 15 minutes and rinse with lukewarm water.
Benefit: Deeply moisturizes and adds a natural glow.
# Rice Water & Multani Mitti Pack (for oily/acne-prone skin)Ingredients:
2 tbsp rice water
1 tbsp multani mitti (Fuller’s Earth)
How to Use:
Form a smooth paste, apply to face, and let it dry for 10–15 minutes.
Rinse with cool water.
Benefit: Absorbs excess oil, tightens pores, and clears acne marks.
# Rice Water Ice CubesHow to Use:
Pour rice water into an ice tray and freeze.
Rub one cube over your face every morning.
Benefit: Reduces puffiness, tightens skin, and improves circulation for an instant glow.
FOR HAIR
# Rice Water Rinse (for shiny, strong hair)How to Use:
After shampooing, pour rice water over your hair.
Massage gently into your scalp and leave for 10–15 minutes.
Rinse thoroughly with plain water.
Benefit: Strengthens hair roots, reduces breakage, and adds shine.
# Fermented Rice Water Spray (for hair growth)How to Make:
Soak ½ cup rice in 2 cups of water for 24–48 hours (until slightly sour).
Strain and store in a spray bottle.
How to Use:
Spray onto scalp and hair.
Leave on for 20–30 minutes, then rinse or shampoo.
Benefit: Fermentation boosts nutrients that promote faster hair growth and reduce dandruff.
# Rice Water & Aloe Vera Scalp MaskIngredients:
4 tbsp rice water
2 tbsp aloe vera gel
How to Use:
Mix well and apply to your scalp.
Leave for 30 minutes and wash off with mild shampoo.
Benefit: Soothes itchy scalp, adds hydration, and reduces hair fall.
# Rice Water & Coconut Oil TreatmentIngredients:
3 tbsp rice water
1 tbsp coconut oil
How to Use:
Warm slightly and massage into the scalp and hair.
Leave for 1 hour before washing.
Benefit: Deep nourishment, smooth texture, and stronger hair strands.
# Rice Water Leave-In ConditionerIngredients:
1 cup rice water
1 tbsp glycerin or a few drops of argan oil
How to Use:
Spray onto damp hair after washing.
Leave in and style as usual.
Benefit: Detangles, softens, and adds natural shine.