How to Make Rice Water for Your Face at Home (DIY Method)

Rice water is one of the simplest DIY skincare ingredients to make, requiring nothing more than rice and water you probably already have at home. The tricky part isn't the making, it's doing it correctly so the water actually retains the beneficial compounds, and using it before it goes bad.

This is the exact step-by-step method, plus how to store it and use it once it's ready. If you're deciding whether to make your own or buy a formulated rice face wash instead, that comparison is covered separately.

Two methods: soaking vs boiling

The soaking method is gentler and preserves more of rice's natural compounds, while the boiling method extracts more concentrated starch faster but can break down some of the more delicate nutrients through heat. Both work well for skincare purposes, with soaking being the more commonly recommended approach for facial use.

The soaking method, step by step

1. Measure half a cup of uncooked rice (white or brown both work, white rice is more commonly used).
2. Rinse the rice once briefly to remove surface dust, without over-rinsing which washes away some of the starch you want to keep.
3. Add one cup of water to the rice in a clean bowl.
4. Let it soak for 30 minutes at room temperature, swirling occasionally to help release the starch into the water.
5. Strain the water into a clean container, discarding the rice or setting it aside to cook separately.
6. Store in the refrigerator, used within two to three days for the freshest results.

The fermented method for stronger results

For a slightly more potent version, let the strained rice water sit at room temperature for 12 to 24 hours before refrigerating, allowing mild fermentation to occur. This increases the concentration of certain beneficial compounds, though it also produces a stronger smell, which some people prefer to avoid by sticking with the simple 30-minute soak instead.

If you choose fermentation, taste or smell the water before using it. It should smell slightly sour, similar to yogurt, not sharply off or unpleasant. If it smells strongly unpleasant, discard it and start fresh rather than applying it to your face.

How to use rice water on your face

Apply rice water to clean skin with a cotton pad, similar to using a toner, either after cleansing or as a rinse following your regular face wash. Let it absorb naturally rather than rinsing it off immediately, and follow with your regular moisturizer.

For a more intensive treatment, soak a sheet mask or a clean cloth in rice water and leave it on skin for ten to fifteen minutes once or twice a week, which allows for deeper absorption than a quick toner pass.

Storage and shelf life

Store rice water in a clean, sealed container in the refrigerator, and use it within two to three days for the soaking method, or within a week for the fermented method since fermentation naturally slows further spoilage slightly. Rice water doesn't contain the preservative systems found in formulated products, so it spoils faster than a store-bought rice face wash.

Signs that a batch has gone bad include a strong sour or unpleasant smell (beyond the mild tang of intentional fermentation), visible cloudiness beyond the natural milky color, or any mold. When in doubt, discard it and make a fresh batch rather than risking irritation.

FAQ

How long does homemade rice water last?

Two to three days in the refrigerator for the simple soaking method, up to about a week for the fermented version. Always check for smell and appearance before use if it's been sitting for a few days.

Does boiling rice water work as well as soaking?

Boiling extracts more starch faster but can degrade some of the more delicate nutrients through heat exposure. Soaking is generally the better method specifically for facial skincare use.

Can I use any type of rice to make rice water?

Yes, both white and brown rice work, though white rice is the most commonly used for skincare since it tends to release starch more easily during soaking.

Is fermented rice water better than fresh rice water for skin?

Fermented rice water has a higher concentration of certain beneficial compounds, but it also has a stronger smell and needs more careful monitoring for spoilage. Fresh rice water is gentler and a good starting point if you're new to this.

Can I use rice water on my face every day?

Yes, rice water is gentle enough for daily use as a toner or rinse, as long as it's fresh and properly stored. Discard and remake it every few days rather than stretching one batch too long.