Rice milk has long been hailed as an effective ingredient in skincare. In fact, the use of rice for skincare can be traced back to ancient China, where rice water was a popular beauty treatment among the noble class.
Legend has it that rice water was used by the women of the Chinese court during the Tang dynasty (618-907 AD) to maintain their beautiful and youthful skin.
The benefits of using rice milk in your skincare
Today, the use of rice milk and rice-derived ingredients has become more widespread globally. Skincare products featuring rice extracts, rice bran oil, and rice water continue to be popular due to their benefits. Let’s get into why rice milk is universally loved by beauty gurus:
She brightens
Rice milk contains various natural compounds, including ferulic acid, allantoin, and vitamins such as B1, B3, and C.
These components work together to promote skin brightening. Ferulic acid, for example, has antioxidant properties that help protect the skin from free radicals, which can contribute to a dull complexion.
Vitamins, on the other hand, play a role in promoting skin regeneration and reducing the appearance of dark spots, contributing to an overall brighter and more radiant complexion.
She moisturises
Rice milk is a good source of moisture due to its water content and the presence of compounds like inositol, a carbohydrate that helps retain water.
When applied to the skin, rice milk forms a hydrating barrier, preventing moisture loss. This makes it particularly beneficial for those who struggle with dry or dehydrated skin, providing a lightweight and natural way to keep the skin hydrated without clogging pores.
She’s anti-Inflammatory
Rice milk contains natural anti-inflammatory agents, including compounds like allantoin and ferulic acid.
These substances help to soothe and calm irritated skin by reducing inflammation. For individuals with sensitive or redness-prone skin, incorporating rice milk into their skincare routine can provide relief and contribute to a more balanced complexion.
Gentle exfoliation
Rice milk contains natural acids, including alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like malic acid and citric acid.
These acids contribute to a mild exfoliating effect, helping to remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. Regular exfoliation can unclog pores, promote cell turnover, and contribute to a smoother and clearer complexion. The gentle nature of rice milk makes it suitable for those with sensitive skin who may not tolerate more abrasive exfoliants.
Antioxidant protection
Rice milk is rich in antioxidants, such as tocopherols (vitamin E), ferulic acid, and certain flavonoids.
Antioxidants play a crucial role in neutralizing free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage skin cells and contribute to premature aging. By providing antioxidant protection, rice milk helps safeguard the skin against environmental stressors, pollution, and UV radiation, contributing to anti-aging effects and supporting overall skin health. Regular use of rice milk in skincare may help maintain a youthful and resilient complexion.
Make your own rice milk toner at home
You only need two ingredients to pull off this recipe for a rice milk toner at home – rice, and water! If you want, you can add in a few drops of essential oil for fragrance and added skincare benefits.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup rice (you can use white rice, but brown rice contains more natural nutrients – or, you can use a mix)
- 1 cup water
- Essential oil (optional)
- Cheesecloth
- Mixing bowl
- Clean, sanitised glass jar
Method:
1. RINSE AND REPEAT. Place the rice in a bowl and rinse it under cold water to remove any impurities or excess starch. Do this twice.
2. SOAK. Add the rinsed rice to the bowl and cover it with water and allow it to soak for about 30 minutes to an hour. This helps to soften the rice and makes it easier to blend.
3. BLEND. After soaking, drain the water from the rice and transfer the soaked rice to a blender or food processor. Add 1 cup of fresh water to the blender and blend until you get a smooth, milky consistency.
4. STRAIN. Place a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth over another bowl or container. Pour the blended rice mixture through the strainer to separate the liquid from the rice solids. Use a spoon to press down on the rice solids to extract as much liquid as possible.
5. POUR. Pour the strained liquid into a clean glass container or bottle. This liquid is your rice milk toner.
6. ESSENTIAL OIL (OPTIONAL). If you want to enhance the fragrance and add extra skincare benefits, add a few drops of your preferred essential oil. Stir well.
7. STORE. Seal the container or bottle and store the rice milk toner in the refrigerator. Shake well before each use, as the mixture may settle over time. It’s important to note that rice milk toner is best when used within a week or two, as it doesn’t contain preservatives.
8. APPLICATION. Apply the rice milk toner to your face using a cotton pad or by gently patting it onto your skin with clean hands. Use it in your skincare routine after cleansing and before moisturising.
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Feature Image: Unsplash
