Your skin is your body’s largest organ—and one of the first places to show signs of aging, stress, and environmental damage. As skincare routines evolve, many are turning to simple, natural remedies rooted in ancient traditions. One such ingredient gaining popularity again is rice water. Used for centuries in Asian beauty practices, rice water is the starchy liquid left behind after soaking or boiling rice. Packed with skin-loving nutrients, it can be a gentle yet powerful addition to your routine.
Dr. Eric Berg recently revealed what can happen to your skin when you use rice water consistently for just two weeks. Read on to get all his insights!
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What Happens To The Skin After Using Rice Water For 2 Weeks
Dr. Berg begins by noting that “rice water has a lot of B vitamins, including inositol, niacin, vitamin B6, and B2, and all of these can help reduce melanin, which causes hyperpigmentation. This will help decrease the darker spot on your face,” leading to a more “radiant, less dull appearance.”
Rich in vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, rice water can help soothe and tone the skin, brighten the complexion, and support a more even skin tone. It contains ferulic acid and allantoin—both known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects—which may help calm irritation and protect the skin from environmental stressors.
He continues, “Your skin will become softer with more hydration.”
Dr. Berg says if you ferment your rice water, “you’ll have more lactic acid, which matches the pH of your skin. This good bacteria in yeast supports the microbiome in your skin, giving you tighter pores and less acne.”
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Rice Water At-Home Recipe and Popular Products
Dr. Berg shared a helpful recipe if you want to create your very own rice water at home:
Combine 2 cups of organic rice with 4 cups of water. Massage the rice, then drain and discard the water. Add 2 cups of fresh water to the rinsed rice and let it sit at room temperature for 24–48 hours. Strain the liquid into a glass jar and cover loosely. Once fermented, seal with a lid and refrigerate to slow bacterial growth. Before use, dilute 1:1 with clean water if you have sensitive skin. Splash or spray it on your face, let it sit for 5 minutes, then rinse. Use 1–2 times per week. Always patch test before full application.
If you're someone who has a beauty routine and loves to try out new products, some of our go-to rice-based products include: The Face Shop Rice Water Bright Light Cleansing Oil, SKINFOOD Rice Mask Wash Off, and I'm From Rice Toner.
