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6 DIY Ways To Use Rice Water for Skin and Hair
Lifeberrys | February 17, 2026 7:39 AM CST

Rice water might look simple, but it’s one of those quiet, powerful beauty secrets that has stood the test of time.

Used for centuries in Asian beauty rituals, rice water is the starchy liquid left behind after soaking or boiling rice. Traditionally, women relied on it to maintain long, glossy hair and smooth, radiant skin — and today, it’s making a big comeback in natural skincare and haircare routines.

What makes it special? Rice water is rich in amino acids, vitamins (like B and E), antioxidants, and a compound called inositol, which helps strengthen hair strands and improve skin texture. It works gently but effectively — helping to brighten dull skin, tighten pores, soothe irritation, add shine to hair, reduce breakage, and promote overall scalp health.

The best part? It’s affordable, easy to make at home, and suitable for most skin and hair types when used correctly.

Ohhh rice water? That’s one of those ancient beauty secrets that refuses to go out of style. Cheap, simple, and surprisingly effective.

For centuries, women in places like Japan and China have used rice water to keep their hair long, glossy, and strong. And your skin? It loves it too.

Let’s break it down properly.

How to Make Rice Water (3 Easy Methods)

* Soaked Rice Water (Beginner-Friendly)


Take ½ cup uncooked rice.

Rinse once to remove dirt.

Add 2 cups water and soak for 30 minutes.

Strain and store in the fridge (use within 3–4 days).

* Boiled Rice Water (More Concentrated)

Cook rice with extra water.

Strain the thick starchy water.

Let it cool and dilute before use.

* Fermented Rice Water (Most Powerful)

Soak rice for 24–48 hours at room temperature.

When it smells slightly sour, refrigerate.

Dilute before using.

Fermented version is stronger — if you have sensitive skin or scalp, dilute it.

Rice Water for Skin

# As a Natural Toner


How to use:

Dip cotton pad in diluted rice water.

Apply after cleansing.

Let it dry naturally.

Benefits:

Tightens pores

Brightens dull skin

Soothes irritation

Controls excess oil

Pro tip: Store in spray bottle for an easy face mist.

# Rice Water Ice Cubes (Instant Glow Hack)


Freeze rice water into cubes.

Wrap in cloth.

Gently rub on face in the morning.

It tightens skin and reduces puffiness instantly. Perfect before makeup.

# Rice Water + Aloe Vera Face Pack

Mix:

2 tbsp rice water

1 tbsp aloe vera gel

Apply for 15–20 minutes.

Great for:

Sun tan

Redness

Uneven skin tone

Rice Water for Hair

Rice water contains amino acids, vitamins, and inositol — all amazing for strengthening strands.

# Rice Water Hair Rinse

How to use:

Shampoo first.

Pour rice water on scalp and hair.

Massage gently.

Leave for 10–20 minutes.

Rinse with plain water.

Use once a week.

Benefits:

Reduces hair fall

Adds shine

Makes hair smoother

Improves strength

# Rice Water + Coconut Oil Scalp Treatment


Mix:

3 tbsp rice water

1 tbsp coconut oil

Massage into scalp. Leave 30 minutes. Wash off.

Great for dry scalp and frizz.

# Rice Water Hair Spray (Frizz Control)

Dilute rice water.
Pour into spray bottle.
Lightly mist on damp hair.

Acts like a natural leave-in conditioner.


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