How to Make Rice Water for Skin?

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, all-natural skincare solution that’s getting heaps of attention, rice water might just be your new go-to. Originally a beauty secret from East Asia, it’s now taking Australia by storm—and for good reason.

From soothing sensitive skin to improving your complexion, rice water is packed with skin-loving nutrients. And the best part? You can easily make it at home using ingredients you already have in the pantry. Just a splash of rice and some high-quality reverse osmosis water , and you’re good to go.

So, let’s dive into why this age-old remedy is becoming a staple in Aussie beauty routines and how you can whip up your own rice water for skin at home.

Rice water is the starchy liquid left over after soaking or boiling rice. It’s full of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that are essential for maintaining healthy, glowing skin. Think of it as a gentle, nutrient-rich skin tonic—minus the nasty chemicals you find in many commercial products.

Key Nutrients in Rice Water:

• Vitamin B & E: Helps with skin regeneration and protects against UV damage
• Amino acids: Essential for skin cell repair
• Ferulic acid : A powerful antioxidant
• Allantoin: Soothes and softens ski

Here’s why rice water has become a bit of a cult favourite across Australia:

Rice water helps fade pigmentation and sun spots—a common issue in sun-soaked places like Sydney or the Gold Coast. It’s a natural brightening agent that can even out your skin tone over time.

Whether you’re dealing with eczema, redness, or post-surf skin irritation, rice water can calm inflamed skin and reduce itching thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties.

Its astringent properties help reduce excess oil, clear out pores, and prevent future breakouts. Perfect for teens or adults dealing with acne.

Rich in antioxidants, rice water may slow down the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, helping you maintain a youthful glow.

This part is crucial, especially for us in Australia, where tap water can be heavily chlorinated or contain minerals that may irritate sensitive skin.

Reverse osmosis (RO) water is purified water that’s had impurities, chlorine, and heavy metals removed. It’s ultra-clean, making it ideal for skincare and safe even for the most sensitive skin types.

Using reverse osmosis water for rice water means you’re not introducing contaminants back into your skin routine. Think of it as giving your skin the cleanest hydration possible.

There are a few ways to make rice water, depending on how much time you’ve got and what kind of potency you’re after. We’ll break it down below.

This is the fastest method and perfect for daily use.

You’ll Need:

• 1/2 cup of organic white or jasmine rice
• 2 cups of reverse osmosis water
• A clean bowl
• A strainer
• An airtight bottle or spray bottle

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice to remove any surface dirt.

2. Place the rice in a bowl and add the RO water.

3. Let it soak for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Strain the water into your clean container.

5. Store in the fridge for up to 7 days.

Great if you want a more potent solution or plan to use it in a mask.

You’ll Need:

• 1/2 cup of rice
• 3 cups of reverse osmosis water

Instructions:

1. Boil the rice in water until the grains are cooked.

2. Strain the starchy water into a bowl.

3. Let it cool completely before storing.

Fermentation enhances the antioxidant levels, making it even better for anti-aging and sensitive skin.

Instructions:

• Soak rice as in Method 1.
• Instead of refrigerating immediately, leave it at room temp for 24-48 hours.
• Once it smells slightly sour, pop it in the fridge.
• Always do a patch test before using fermented rice water—it’s stronger.

There’s no one-size-fits-all, so feel free to experiment and see what works for you.

1. As a Toner

Pour some onto a cotton pad and apply after cleansing.

2. Face Mist

Pop it in a spray bottle and mist throughout the day—especially great for hot Aussie afternoons.

3. DIY Face Mask

Mix rice water with oatmeal or aloe vera for a soothing mask.

4. Acne Spot Treatment

Use fermented rice water with a cotton swab on breakouts.

5. Soothing Sunburn Spray

Mix with aloe juice and refrigerate—it’s a lifesaver after a beach day.

• Always use reverse osmosis water for the cleanest skincare solution.
• Do a patch test before your first use.
• Use within 7 days for maximum freshness.
• Pair with a minimalist skincare routine to avoid product clashes.

While rice water suits most skin types, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• If you have fungal acne, rice water may exacerbate it.
• Fermented rice water is potent—start slow if you have sensitive skin.
• Allergic? Discontinue use and consult your GP or dermatologist.

Rice water is a gentle, effective and budget-conscious way to care for your skin. Whether you’re living in sunny Perth or breezy Melbourne, it’s a fantastic addition to any natural skincare routine. Just don’t forget the key ingredient—reverse osmosis water—to make sure you’re treating your skin to the purest care possible.