The Benefits of Fermented Rice Water in Skincare

While the thought of applying fermented rice water to your skin might sound odd, it’s actually one of the best ways to supercharge your skincare routine. Both rice and fermentation have long been a part of Japanese culture and cuisine, so it makes sense that together they hold a prominent place in J-Beauty. 

What are the benefits of adding fermented rice water to your skincare routine? We’ll get into that later. But it’s essential to note that fermentation uses microorganisms to break down larger ingredient compounds, unlocking the potential for greater benefits. The result? A bigger bang for your buck! 

Read on to discover the benefits of fermented rice water in skincare. 

What is Fermented Rice Water? Fermented rice water is one of Japan’s most beloved ingredients. Its use as a beauty ingredient in Japan dates back as early as the Heian period, around 794 CE and 1185 CE.  But what is it? It’s just like it sounds! Fermented rice water is the starchy liquid made by fermenting the rice (Oryza sativa) water left over from cooking or washing rice. 

The Benefits of Fermented Rice Water in Skincare

1. Better Product Absorption

Adding fermented rice water to your skincare routine amplifies your results and delivers potent, bioavailable actives right to your skin. Through fermentation, compounds – such as vitamins, minerals, peptides, antioxidants, and so on – become more bioavailable, meaning the nutrients have been broken down and are easier for the skin to utilize. Because your skin can absorb these compounds quickly and effectively, you’re more likely to see results.

In the Organic Facial Lotion by Sorabudo, rice ferment – alongside mugwort leaf and grape yeast extract – increases the penetration rate of other active ingredients.

2. It’s Rich in Antioxidants

Rice water is an amazing source of antioxidants, containing phenolic acids, flavonoids, anthocyanins, phytic acid, and more. When rice water ferments, those antioxidant levels significantly increase, thus boosting its anti-aging and antioxidant properties. In fact, one 2018 study found rice water to have the same antioxidant activity as ascorbic acid, or vitamin C.

​​Get the antioxidant benefits of rice extract along with anti-aging placenta, rejuvenating Asian ginseng, calming St. John’s wort, and antioxidant-rich trans-resveratrol in the Dr. Select Placenta Cleansing Gel.

3. Helps Prevent Premature Aging

Because fermented rice is rich in antioxidants, as well as compounds like peptides and amino acids, it makes for a great anti-aging ingredient in any skincare routine. In addition, fermented rice water has been scientifically shown to inhibit the action of elastase, a compound that causes damage to elastin and leads to premature aging. Because of this, fermented rice water may help reduce the appearance and formation of fine lines and wrinkles.

The QINUDE Cleansing Gel is ideal for an anti-aging routine. It includes sake rice enzymes to smooth uneven texture and maintain elasticity, protein fibers to fill in wrinkles and creases, and silk fibroins to plump up the skin and reduce visible signs of aging

4. Brightens Skin

If you want to target dullness or uneven skin tone, try adding fermented rice water to your skincare regimen. Fermented rice water contains skin-brightening enzymes and antioxidants that target dark spots, blemishes, and uneven texture, resulting in a clear, radiant complexion. Fermented rice has also been shown to inhibit tyrosinase activity (the enzyme responsible for melanin production), helping reduce and prevent hyperpigmentation. In the CORECO Placenta VC Moisture Lotion, rice extract teams up with vitamin C, placenta, yuzu fruit, and three types of hyaluronic acid to brighten and hydrate the skin.

5. Contains Ferulic Acid

One of the most powerful antioxidants found in rice water is ferulic acid. This bioactive compound helps strengthen the skin’s defense against free radical damage caused by pollution and UV rays. It’s also soothing and easily tolerated by all skin types. 

Find rice ferulic acid in the Medel skincare line.

6. Protects the Skin Barrier

Thanks to its high concentration of antioxidants, fermented rice is naturally anti-inflammatory and helps support the skin barrier. One study found it to soothe irritation and reduce trans-epidermal water loss in patients with a damaged skin barrier, making it an ideal ingredient for sensitive, dry, or compromised skin.

In the MYUFULL Natural Lotion, rice extract works with mineral-rich seawater, propanediol, hyaluronic acid, and rose water to moisturize skin from the inside out.