The Benefits of Rice Water in Korean Skincare and How to Make It

When it comes to timeless beauty secrets, Korean skincare has long led the way with gentle, natural ingredients, and rice water is one of its most cherished staples. For generations, women in Korea have used the starchy, milky liquid left behind from rinsing rice as a skin-brightening, soothing elixir. Today, rice water is having a major comeback in modern K-beauty routines, praised for its simplicity, effectiveness, and glowing results.

Whether you’ve seen it in trendy toners or DIY tutorials, there’s more to this humble ingredient than meets the eye. In this blog, we’ll explore why rice water is a quiet powerhouse in Korean skincare and how you can easily make and use it at home for radiant, refreshed skin.

Long before serums and sheet masks became skincare essentials, Korean women were already reaching for rice water to care for their skin. Historical records trace its use back to the Joseon dynasty, where court ladies and villagers alike used rice-rinsed water to cleanse and soften their skin. It was simple, accessible, and effective—a reflection of traditional Korean beauty's focus on natural, gentle care.

Today, this centuries-old practice is still very much alive, now bottled into toners, essences, and emulsions by some of Korea’s most popular skincare brands. But even with modern options available, many still turn to the DIY method—not only for its affordability but for the clean, minimal approach that aligns with the heart of Korean skincare: balance, hydration, and glow.

Brightens and Evens Out Skin Tone

Rice water contains natural enzymes that help fade dark spots and improve overall brightness. It’s especially loved for its ability to give skin that soft, radiant, “glass skin” look.

Soothes Irritation and Redness

Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, rice water can calm sensitive or inflamed skin. It’s often used to relieve sunburn, rashes, or general irritation.

Strengthens the Skin Barrier

The nutrients in rice water support a healthy skin barrier, making it more resilient against dryness, pollution, and other stressors. Over time, this can lead to smoother, more supple skin.

Refines Pores and Controls Oil

If you have oily or acne-prone skin, rice water can help regulate sebum production and minimize the appearance of pores, all without stripping moisture.

Hydrates Without Heaviness

Lightweight but effective, rice water offers a refreshing boost of hydration. It’s ideal for layering into your routine, especially in hot or humid weather.

Method 1: Soaking (Quick and Easy)

1. Rinse ½ cup of uncooked white rice to remove dirt and excess starch.
2. Place the clean rice in a bowl with 2 cups of water.
3. Let it soak for 30 minutes while gently swirling it around every few minutes.
4. Strain the water into a clean container — this is your rice water.
5. Store in the fridge for up to 5–7 days.
   

Method 2: Boiled (More Concentrated)

1. Boil rice with double the usual amount of water.
2. Once cooked, strain the excess water before it fully evaporates.
3. Let it cool before transferring to a clean container.
4. Store in the fridge and use within a week.
   

Method 3: Fermented (For Extra Potency)

1. Use the soaking method above, but instead of refrigerating immediately, leave the rice water in a sealed jar at room temperature for 24–48 hours.
2. Once it starts to smell slightly sour (a sign it has fermented), store it in the fridge.
3. Fermented rice water is believed to have enhanced antioxidant and anti-aging benefits, but it’s stronger, so patch test first.

As a Toner

After cleansing, apply rice water to your face using a cotton pad or by gently patting it in with your hands. Let it absorb before applying your next product.

As a Face Mist

Transfer your rice water into a small spray bottle and use it as a refreshing mist throughout the day. It’s perfect for midday hydration or a cooling touch in hot weather.

In DIY Sheet Masks

Soak cotton pads or a dry sheet mask in rice water and leave it on your face for 10–15 minutes. It’s a great way to give your skin a quick, nourishing boost.

As a Rinse-Off Treatment

For oily or acne-prone skin, you can use rice water as a gentle rinse after cleansing. Leave it on for a few minutes, then wash it off to help refine pores and calm irritation.

How Often Should You Use It?

Start by using rice water 2–3 times a week and see how your skin responds. Some people can use it daily, while others may find a few times per week is enough. As always, patch test first—especially if you’re using fermented rice water.

How to Store It

• Refrigerate immediately after preparing to slow down bacterial growth.
• Use a clean, airtight container (preferably glass) to keep it fresh and contamination-free.
• Label the container with the date you made it so you can track its shelf life.

How Long Does It Last?

• Fresh rice water (soaked or boiled): best used within 5–7 days.
• Fermented rice water can last slightly longer — around 7–10 days, but keep an eye (and nose) on it.

When to Throw It Out

• If it smells off, becomes too sour, or changes texture (gets overly cloudy or slimy), it’s time to toss it.
• Always err on the side of caution when applying anything homemade to your face.