Have you ever heard of using rice water for your skin? Yes, that's right, the starchy liquid that's left over after soaking or boiling rice can work wonders for your skin.
It's been used for centuries in many Asian countries as a natural ingredient to improve skin health and appearance. And the best part is, it's cheap, easy to make, and completely natural!
Rice water contains a plethora of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are beneficial for the skin. It's rich in amino acids that can help to soothe and hydrate the skin, while the antioxidants can help to protect it against damage caused by free radicals. Additionally, rice water contains ferulic acid, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties.
So, how can you use rice water for your skin? Here are a few ways:
- As a toner
- As a face wash
- As a face mask
- As a bath soak
- As a healing ingredient
As a toner
Rice water can be used as a natural toner to tighten and firm the skin. To use it as a toner, soak a cotton ball in rice water and apply it all over your face after cleansing. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes, then rinse off with warm water. Your skin will feel refreshed and rejuvenated.
As a face wash
Rice water can be used as a gentle face wash to remove dirt and impurities from the skin. To use it as a face wash, mix a small amount of rice water with your regular facial cleanser, then apply it to your face and massage gently. Rinse off with warm water for clean and refreshed skin.
Also check: Natural ways to enhance beauty without using makeup
As a face mask
Rice water can also be used as a face mask to brighten and moisturize the skin. To make a rice water face mask, mix 1/4 cup of rice water with 2 tablespoons of honey and 1 tablespoon of plain yogurt. Apply the mixture to your face and leave it on for 15-20 minutes, then rinse off with warm water. This mask will leave your skin feeling soft, supple, and glowing.
Also check: Homemade face packs to fight acne
As a bath soak
Rice water can also be used as a bath soak to soothe and soften the skin. To use it as a bath soak, add 1-2 cups of rice water to your bath and soak for 20-30 minutes. This will leave your skin feeling soft, smooth, and refreshed.
As a healing ingredient
Rice water can also be used as a compress for inflamed or irritated skin. Soak a washcloth in rice water and place it on the affected area for 10-15 minutes.
Also check: Do face clean-up like a pro - Natural home remedies+ cautions
The correct way of using rice water
When using rice water on your skin or hair, it's important to use clean, organic rice to avoid exposure to harmful chemicals and pesticides. To make rice water, rinse rice thoroughly with water and then soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Strain the rice, and the water left behind is your rice water.
Benefits of rice water for hair
Rice water is also beneficial for hair health. It contains inositol, a carbohydrate that can help to improve hair elasticity and reduce friction and damage. It also contains amino acids that can help to strengthen hair and prevent breakage.
Rice water can improve hair shine and manageability. It can be used as a hair rinse to strengthen hair and add shine, and some people even use it as a leave-in conditioner to prevent split ends.
As a hair rinse
Rice water can also be used as a hair rinse to improve hair health and shine. To use it as a hair rinse, pour rice water over your hair and massage it into your scalp. Leave it on for 10–15 minutes, then rinse off with warm water. It will help to strengthen your hair, add shine, and make it more manageable.
Cooked rice water v/s raw rice water
Raw rice water and cooked rice water can both be beneficial for the skin, but they have different properties and uses.
| Criteria | Raw Rice Water | Cooked Rice Water |
|---|---|---|
| Nutritional Value | High | Low |
| Texture | Liquid | Liquid |
| Preparation | Soak rice in water | Boil rice in water, strain |
| Use | Toner, Cleanser, Hair Rinse | Face Mask, Scrub |
| Skin Benefits | Brightens and firms skin, reduces inflammation | Softens and hydrates skin, reduces redness |
| Shelf Life | Short (1-2 days) | Longer (up to a week) |
| Allergies | May cause allergies in some people | Rarely causes allergies |
In conclusion
Rice water is a natural and affordable way to improve skin and hair health. Whether you use it as a toner, face wash, face mask, hair rinse, or bath soak, rice water is packed with beneficial nutrients that will leave your skin and hair looking and feeling their best. Give it a try and see how it works for you! So, next time you cook rice, don't throw away the water - use it to pamper your skin and hair instead!