Introduction
In the past few years, rice water has become one of the most talked-about natural skin care products. People often laud it for making skin brighter, less oily, and smoother, from beauty tips on social media to traditional Asian skincare regimes. A lot of people use rice water as a toner, cleanser, or facial rinse to make their skin smoother and brighter.
But even though rice water is popular, there are some adverse effects that people don’t talk about very often. Not everyone should utilize something just because it is natural. Different skin types react in different ways, and using the wrong product can cause skin problems you didn’t expect.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll look at the probable risks, who shouldn’t use it, how to reduce side effects, and whether rice water is really good for your skin care routine.
What is rice water?
The starchy liquid that is left behind after soaking or boiling rice is called rice water. It has:
- Starch
- Amino acids
- Vitamins, notably B vitamins
- Minerals
- Antioxidants
Three common forms of rice water that people use on their skin are
Rice water that has been soaked
After soaking the rice in water for 30 minutes, the water is filtered and utilized.
Water from boiled rice
After straining the rice, the water that is left over is collected.
 Rice Water That Has Been Fermented
Before using, soaked rice water is left at room temperature for 24 to 48 hours to ferment.
Different types have varied amounts of active ingredients and effects on the skin.
Common Side Effects of Rice Water on the Face
Some people may have bad reactions, but most people will feel better. These are the negative effects of rice water on the face that happen most often.
 Skin that is dry and tight
Dryness is one of the most common negative effects of using rice water on the skin. Starch in rice water can make the skin feel tighter. This might make pores look smaller for a short while, but it might also:
- Take away natural oils
- Make things flaky
- Make the texture rough
- Make it more sensitive
People with dry or mixed skin are more likely to have it. Too much rice water can break down the skin’s natural moisture barrier, making it harder for the skin to stay hydrated.
 Breakouts of acne
Acne is another possible negative effect of using rice water on your face. There are a few reasons why this might happen:
If not stored correctly, fermented rice water could have bacteria in it.
Thick, starchy residue might block pores.
Using too much can throw off the balance of oils.
People with oily or acne-prone skin should not use rice water too often because it can cause breakouts instead of stopping them. If you don’t rinse off the rice water well, it could make blackheads and whiteheads worse.
Skin that is red and irritated
Some people feel irritated, red, or a moderate burning sensation after putting rice water on their skin. This reaction happens more often in:
- Skin types that are sensitive
- People who drink fermented rice water
- People who use it every day without taking a break
Fermented rice water is more acidic, which can occasionally bother sensitive skin. Using too much of even natural ingredients can make you sensitive.
 Reactions to Allergies
Allergic responses are still possible side effects of rice water on the face, even though they are rare. Some signs of this condition are:
- Itching, swelling, and a rash
- Hives
- Red spots
If you have any of these symptoms, stop using rice water right away and see a dermatologist.
 Damage to the skin barrier
The skin barrier is very important for keeping pollution, bacteria, and moisture from getting into the body. Too much rice water can:
- Change the pH level of the skin
- Lower the amount of oil your body makes
- Make more water leave
Skin is more likely to get irritated, break out, and dry out when the barrier is broken.
 More sensitive to sunlight
Some people may discover that they are more sensitive to sunlight after consuming rice water consistently, but this is not common. When the skin barrier gets weaker, it reacts more to UV radiation. If you don’t use sunscreen properly, this could happen:
- Burned by the sun
- Too much pigment
- Skin tone that isn’t even
If you use rice water in your skin care routine, you should always wear sunscreen.
Who Should Not Use Rice Water on Their Face?
Not everyone can use rice water. Some people should stay away from it or use it with care.
People Having Skin That Is Sensitive
When you put new things on sensitive skin, it usually reacts rapidly. Even mild starch-based remedies might make your skin red or irritated.
People who have eczema or rosacea
If you have skin disorders that cause inflammation, rice water may make your symptoms worse, such as:
- Redness
- Dry spots
- Itching
- Flare-ups
Before trying any DIY skin care product, talk to a dermatologist.
Very Dry Skin Types
Rice water can tighten and soak up oil, so it might not be the best choice for very dry skin unless you follow it up with a thick moisturizer.
Skin that is prone to acne
Some people say that rice water relieves acne, but if you use it wrong, it can also clog pores. People who are prone to acne should be careful and keep an eye on how their skin reacts.
How to Safely Use Rice Water
If you still want to try rice water, follow these steps to lower the chance of side effects.
Do a Patch Test
Before putting rice water on your whole face:
- Put a little bit behind your ear or on the inside of your arm.
- Wait a day
- Look for redness, itching, or pain.
This easy step can stop big skin responses.
Use rice water that is fresh
Fresh rice water is usually safer than fermented rice water. If you pick fermented rice water:
- Put it in the fridge
- Don’t use it for more than 5 to 7 days.
- If anything smells bad, throw it away.
Bacteria grow faster when things are stored wrong.
Cut down on how often
Using rice water every day could make your skin dry. Instead:
- Use it two to three times a week.
- Watch how your skin reacts
- Change the frequency as needed
Moderation is really important.
After applying, moisturize
Always use a moisturizer that hydrates your skin afterward to keep it from losing moisture and protect your skin barrier.
Wash It Off
Instead of leaving rice water on your skin for hours, try using it as a rinse-off treatment to get rid of extra residue.
Is it worth while to weigh the pros and cons?
Rice water might be good for you in various ways, such as:
- Brightening for a short time
- A mild calming effect
- Control of oil
But if you don’t apply rice water on your face correctly, the unwanted effects may be worse than the advantages. Skincare products made today have balanced pH levels and have been evaluated for safety, however DIY cures don’t have these rules.
Rice water may function as a therapy every now and then if your skin is healthy and not sensitive. But if you keep becoming irritated, it’s advisable to stop using it.
When to Go to the Dermatologist
If you see any of the following, get professional help:
- Redness that doesn’t go away
- Bad outbreaks
- Peeling skin
- Swelling or allergic responses
- Worsening of skin problems that are already there
A dermatologist can suggest safer options that are right for your skin type.
Conclusion
Rice water may appear like an easy and natural way to improve your beauty, but it isn’t fully safe. If you use rice water on your face too much or without taking the right steps, it might cause dryness, irritation, acne breakouts, allergic responses, and damage to the skin barrier.
Think about your skin type, do a patch test, and use rice water sparingly before adding it to your skincare routine. Natural cures can help, but you should be careful and think about them before using them.
To have healthy skin, you don’t have to follow trends; you just need to know what works for you.