How to Make DIY Fermented Rice Water for Glowing Skin
Fermented rice water just might be the secret behind the glowing, flawless skin of women in East Asia? Fermenting rice water for skin is one ancient beauty ritual that has stood the test of time, but recently gaining popularity through Korean skincare trends.
When I first heard about people fermenting rice water for skin benefits, I had to check it out. As a holistic esthetician and natural living advocate, this was right up my alley.
Now, I’m here to share a DIY recipe for making your own fermented rice water to help you address skin concerns such as dullness, uneven texture, dryness, and more skin benefits of fermenting rice water, right at home.
Side note: If you’re into clean, natural skincare, we have some amazing tallow balms in our shop that you should check out – they’re highly rated by our customers for their effectiveness and natural purity.
What is Fermented Rice Water?
Fermented rice water is the leftover water from soaking or boiling rice, which you then let sit out to ferment for a bit.
This process enhances its skin-beneficial properties by boosting the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants in the water.
In holistic skincare, it’s loved for how it helps balance the skin’s pH, soothes irritation, and supports skin renewal.
This natural remedy has been a staple in Asian cultures for centuries, making it a great option for keeping your skin looking healthy and glowing.
Fermented Rice Water Benefits for Skin
How to Make Fermented Rice Water for Skin
Ingredients
Instructions
Rinse the Rice
Start by rinsing 1 cup of uncooked white rice thoroughly under tap water to remove any impurities or traces of makeup and dirt.
Soak the Rice
Place the rinsed rice in a clean bowl and add 2-3 cups of water. Let the rice soak for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This soaking helps to release the nutrient-rich water from the rice grains.
Strain the Rice Water
After soaking, strain the rice water into an airtight container. This liquid is already rich in amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, but to enhance its skin-beneficial properties, we’ll proceed to the fermentation process.
Ferment the Rice Water
Seal the container and let it sit at room temperature for 24-48 hours. The fermentation process will cause the rice water to develop a slightly sour smell and a cloudy appearance. This indicates the production of beneficial substances like ferulic acid and kojic acid, which can help with dark spots and skin irritation.
Store
After fermenting, transfer the rice water to the refrigerator to halt the fermentation process. Keep it in a dark place or a cold temperature to preserve its nutrient content. It should be used within a week.
How Long Should You Ferment Rice Water for Face?
The ideal fermentation time for rice water is between 24 to 48 hours. This duration allows enough beneficial compounds to develop without the horrible smell that can result from over-fermentation.
Which Rice Water is Best for Face: Fermented or Boiled?
Both fermented rice water and boiled rice water have their own benefits.
Fermented rice water is richer in antioxidants like ferulic acid and contains more amino acids, which can help with skin barrier repair and provide a smoother complexion.
Boiled rice water is also beneficial but lacks the enhanced properties that fermentation brings.
For a more potent treatment, fermented rice water is generally considered better for the face.
What Does Koji Do to Rice?
Fermenting rice water requires Koji, but you can easily get Koji rice online. Koji (Aspergillus oryzae) is a fungus used in the fermentation process of various Japanese foods and beverages, including sake.
While Koji can be used to ferment rice water, it is not always necessary for simple DIY versions of fermented rice water.
However, using Koji can ensure a more controlled and beneficial fermentation process, which can enhance the nutrient content and efficacy of the rice water for your skincare routine.
What is the Ratio of Rice to Water for Skin?
The recommended ratio is 1 cup of uncooked white rice to 2-3 cups of water.
This ratio ensures that the rice releases enough nutrients into the water, creating a nutrient-rich water that’s beneficial for the skin.
How to Apply & Use Fermented Rice Water for Your Skincare Routine
Applying fermented rice water to your face is pretty simple and straight forward. Here are a few tips to help you in the application and usage process…
Topical Application
Cotton Ball/Pad: Dip a cotton ball or cotton pad into the fermented rice water and gently apply it to your face in a circular motion.
Spray Bottle: Pour the rice water into a clean spray bottle for easy application. Spray it evenly over your face.
Facial Mask: Soak a sheet mask or a clean cloth in the rice water and place it on your face for 15-20 minutes.
Usage
Toner: Use fermented rice water as a toner by applying it after cleansing your face. Leave it on for about 20 minutes, then rinse with cold water.
Overnight Treatment: For a deeper treatment, you can leave the rice water on your face overnight and rinse it off in the morning.
Mix with Other Ingredients: Combine rice water with other natural ingredients like aloe vera gel, honey, or essential oils to enhance its benefits.
Frequency
Use fermented rice water 2-3 times a week to see noticeable improvements in your skin’s texture and tone.
Final Thoughts
Making your own fermented rice water at home is a simple yet effective DIY recipe that can significantly benefit your skin. If you’re looking for that radiant skin we all long for or to incorporate natural ingredients into your skincare routine, this Korean skincare secret is worth trying.
About The Author
Kacie is a wife, homeschool mom of 4 boys, holistic esthetician, and a sixth-generation homesteader with a passion for natural and sustainable living, creating a home that educates the mind and nurtures the soul, and reclaiming our independence like our ancestors before us.
