Use of Rice Water in Cosmetology: A Review

Abstract

Rice water, a traditional ingredient in Asian beauty rituals, has gained popularity globally for its potential benefits in cosmetology. Rice water is a byproduct of rice processing and can be considered a food processing wastewater. It contains a range of bioactive compounds, including antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, which contribute to its high commercial value. The primary objective of this study is to review different formulations containing rice water along with an assessment of their safety, stability, and efficacy in cosmetic applications. In vitro studies have investigated the effects of rice water on skin and hair cells. Potential benefits of rice water are anti-inflammation activity, anti-aging properties, hair growth promotion, soothing and calming effects. The formulation containing 96% rice water demonstrated excellent biocompatibility, indicating its emerging benefits for use in cosmetics. In recent years, rice water has been widely accepted as a natural, cost-effective, and sustainable ingredient in skin and hair care formulations. Rice contents promote hair growth, improve hair texture, reduce dandruff, and protect hair from damage. Additionally, in case of skin care, it hydrates, moisturizes, reduces inflammation, and improves skin elasticity.

Introduction

Rice is a staple food for about half the world’s population and has long been used in traditional medicine, cosmetics, and hair care, especially in Asian cultures. Rice water—extracted by soaking, boiling, or fermenting rice—is rich in starch, vitamins (B, C, E), minerals, and bioactive compounds with therapeutic, nutritional, and cosmetic benefits.

Rice water is traditionally used for its easy digestibility and soothing properties, especially in treating gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea. In skincare and haircare, it promotes cell regeneration, hydration, and health. Fermented rice water is particularly valued in the cosmetic industry for enhancing skin microecology and providing antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, moisturizing, anti-aging, photoprotective, and skin-brightening effects.

The preparation of rice water varies by method—soaking (quick and simple), boiling (nutrient-rich), and fermentation (enhanced bioactivity)—each suited to different uses. Modern formulations often include additives like honey, aloe vera, essential oils, clays, and herbs to boost therapeutic effects.

Despite its long traditional use, standardized cosmetic formulations of rice water are still lacking. Advances like hydrogel delivery systems and encapsulation technologies are being explored to improve stability, controlled release, and skin/hair penetration of rice water’s active compounds.

Rice is primarily cultivated in Asia (notably China, India, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Vietnam), belonging to the Poaceae family (genus Oryza), with species Oryza sativa (Asian rice) and Oryza glaberrima (African rice).

Conclusion

Rice water has gained significant attention in cosmetology due to its rich content of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants. It has been traditionally used in various cultures for enhancing skin and hair health and is now supported by modern studies for its beneficial effects. In cosmetics, rice water serves as a natural, affordable, and effective ingredient for skin care and hair care. Its natural composition makes it suitable for various formulations like shampoos, conditioners, face packs, toners, and hair masks. Furthermore, it is generally safe, non-toxic, well-tolerated, and eco-friendly. It offers a perfect blend of purity, tradition, and innovation in modern cosmetology.

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Copyright © 2025 Kuldeep Kaur, Jaya Yadav, Dr. Monika Sharma, Harsh , Harsh Kumar, Dheeraj Kumar, Dikshant Singh, Dr. Lovkesh Bhatia. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.