Rice Water Toner: DIY Recipe, Benefits & Best Products for Indian Skin (2026)

Rice water toner has become a viral skincare sensation, but does it actually work? The answer is yes—and there’s science to back it up. This ancient Asian beauty secret, now validated by modern dermatology, offers a natural, affordable solution for glowing skin. Whether you’re looking to brighten your complexion, minimize pores, or achieve that coveted glass skin effect, rice water toner delivers real results.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn exactly how to make rice water toner at home with three proven methods, discover the science-backed benefits, and find the best commercial products available in India. We’ll also cover critical storage guidelines, application techniques, and skin type recommendations—everything you need to transform your skincare routine.

What Is Rice Water Toner & How Does It Work?

Rice water toner is the starchy liquid left behind after soaking or boiling rice, packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that benefit your skin. This simple yet powerful ingredient contains inositol (a carbohydrate that repairs damaged skin), ferulic acid (an antioxidant), amino acids, and vitamins B and E.

Historically, rice water has been a cornerstone of Asian beauty rituals for centuries. Japanese Geisha and Korean women have long used it to maintain their porcelain complexions. The Yao women of China’s Huangluo village—famous for their floor-length hair—attribute their beauty to fermented rice water.

Modern science confirms what ancient traditions knew intuitively. Research published in MDPI (2024) found that rice water exhibits antioxidant activity comparable to ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and reduces reactive oxygen species (ROS) by 80%. This means it effectively protects skin cells from oxidative stress and premature aging.

Key compounds in rice water:

• Inositol: Promotes cell growth and slows aging
• Ferulic acid: Powerful antioxidant that brightens skin
• Allantoin: Soothes inflammation and irritation
• Amino acids: Strengthen skin barrier function
• Vitamins B and E: Nourish and protect skin

When used as a toner, rice water balances your skin’s pH, tightens pores, and preps your face for better absorption of serums and moisturizers. It’s gentle enough for daily use yet effective enough to deliver visible results.

7 Rice Water Toner Benefits for Face: Science-Backed Guide

Rice water toner offers multiple scientifically-validated benefits that address common skin concerns from dullness to aging. Here’s what research reveals:

1. Brightens and Evens Skin Tone Rice water contains natural enzymes that gently exfoliate dead skin cells, revealing brighter skin underneath. The ferulic acid and allantoin work together to fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation. According to Dr. Hadley King, Board-Certified Dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group, ‘Rice water helps to seal in moisture and contains enzymes that help exfoliate and brighten the skin’.

2. Deeply Hydrates and Plumps Skin A 2024 study measured a 10% increase in skin hydration after 28 days of using rice water gel, as measured by corneometry. The starch molecules in rice water create a protective film that locks in moisture, making it ideal for India’s dry winter months.

3. Minimizes Pores and Controls Oil Rice water’s astringent properties naturally tighten pores without stripping skin. It’s particularly effective for oily and combination skin types common in India’s humid climate. The toner balances sebum production while maintaining hydration.

4. Provides Powerful Antioxidant Protection With a total phenolic content of 3.33 mg/L, rice water delivers significant antioxidant benefits. It reduces oxidative stress by 80%, comparable to vitamin C, protecting your skin from pollution and UV damage—critical for Indian urban environments.

5. Soothes Inflammation and Irritation The allantoin in rice water has anti-inflammatory properties that calm redness, sunburn, and acne irritation. Research confirms cell viability remains above 50% after rice water treatment, indicating it’s non-cytotoxic and safe for sensitive skin.

6. Strengthens Skin Barrier Function Amino acids in rice water repair and reinforce your skin’s protective barrier, reducing moisture loss and environmental damage. This is especially beneficial during seasonal transitions when skin becomes vulnerable.

7. Delays Signs of Aging Inositol promotes cell regeneration and slows the aging process. Regular use can reduce fine lines and improve skin elasticity. The antioxidants combat free radicals that accelerate aging, keeping your complexion youthful.

How to Make Rice Water Toner at Home: 3 Easy Methods

Making rice water toner at home is incredibly simple and costs less than ₹20 per batch. Here are three proven methods, each with unique benefits:

Method 1: Soaking Method (Quickest & Easiest)

Best for: Beginners, sensitive skin, immediate use

Ingredients:

• ½ cup uncooked white rice (basmati or sona masoori)
• 1 cup distilled or filtered water
• Optional: 2-3 drops lavender essential oil

Steps:

1. Rinse rice thoroughly to remove dirt and impurities
2. Place rice in a clean bowl and add 1 cup water
3. Let it soak for 30 minutes to 2 hours at room temperature
4. Strain the milky water into a clean bottle
5. Add essential oil if desired and shake well
6. Store in refrigerator for up to 5 days

Pro tip: For India’s hot climate, don’t exceed 2 hours of soaking to prevent fermentation.

Method 2: Boiling Method (Most Concentrated)

Best for: Oily skin, maximum nutrient extraction

Ingredients:

• ½ cup uncooked rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 teaspoon aloe vera gel (optional)

Steps:

1. Rinse rice and place in a pot with 2 cups water
2. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 15-20 minutes
3. Strain the cloudy water and let it cool completely
4. Mix in aloe vera gel for extra hydration
5. Transfer to a spray bottle
6. Refrigerate and use within 7 days

Note: Boiled rice water is more potent, so dilute with equal parts water if you have sensitive skin.

Method 3: Fermented Rice Water (Korean Method)

Best for: Anti-aging, brightening, glass skin effect

Ingredients:

• ½ cup uncooked rice
• 1 cup water
• Clean glass jar with lid

Steps:

1. Follow soaking method steps 1-4
2. Leave strained rice water at room temperature for 24-48 hours
3. You’ll notice a slightly sour smell—this indicates fermentation
4. Boil the fermented water for 1 minute to stop fermentation
5. Cool and dilute with 1 cup fresh water (fermented rice water is very strong)
6. Store in refrigerator for up to 2 weeks

Important: Fermented rice water has a pH closer to skin’s natural pH (4.5-5.5), making it more effective. However, the smell can be strong—add a few drops of rose or tea tree essential oil to mask it.

Climate Adaptation for India:

• Summer/Humid regions: Use soaking method; fermentation happens too quickly
• Winter/Dry regions: Boiling method provides extra hydration
• Monsoon season: Add 2-3 drops tea tree oil to prevent bacterial growth

Equipment needed: Clean bowl, strainer, glass bottle or spray bottle, refrigerator

How to Use Rice Water Toner for Face: Step-by-Step

Applying rice water toner correctly maximizes its benefits and prevents common mistakes that reduce effectiveness. Here’s your complete application guide:

Daily Application Technique

Step 1: Cleanse Your Face Start with a clean canvas. Use your regular cleanser to remove makeup, dirt, and oil. Pat dry with a clean towel—don’t rub.

Step 2: Apply Rice Water Toner You have three application options:

• Cotton pad method: Soak a cotton pad and gently swipe across face and neck in upward motions
• Spray method: Mist directly onto face from 6-8 inches away, then pat in
• Palm method: Pour a small amount into palms, press onto face and neck

Step 3: Pat Until Absorbed Gently pat your skin for 30-60 seconds to enhance absorption. Don’t let it air dry completely.

Step 4: Follow with Serum and Moisturizer Apply your regular serums and moisturizer while skin is still slightly damp for better penetration.

Frequency Guidelines

For normal to oily skin:

• Morning and night (twice daily)
• Can be used daily without breaks

For dry or sensitive skin:

• Once daily (preferably at night)
• Start with 3-4 times per week, then increase

For acne-prone skin:

• Once daily initially
• Monitor for any reactions before increasing

Overnight Application

Many users ask: Can I use rice water toner overnight? Yes, but with precautions:

1. Apply a thin layer 30 minutes before bed
2. Let it absorb completely—don’t sleep with wet skin
3. Follow with a light moisturizer to seal in benefits
4. Use fermented rice water for overnight application (it’s more stable)

Important: Don’t leave rice water on skin for more than 20 minutes without rinsing if you have sensitive skin. Some people experience irritation from prolonged contact.

Patch Testing (MANDATORY)

Before first use:

1. Apply small amount to inner wrist or behind ear
2. Wait 24 hours
3. Check for redness, itching, or irritation
4. If clear, proceed with facial application

Integration with Other Products

Compatible with:

• Hyaluronic acid serums
• Niacinamide
• Vitamin C (use in AM)
• Moisturizers and sunscreen

Use caution with:

• Retinol (apply toner first, wait 20 minutes)
• AHAs/BHAs (may increase sensitivity)
• Prescription treatments (consult dermatologist)

Pro tip: For best results, use rice water toner as the first step after cleansing, before any active ingredients. This preps your skin for better absorption.

How to Store Rice Water Toner (Shelf Life + Fridge Tips)

Proper storage is critical—rice water can spoil quickly, especially in India’s warm climate. 

Here’s everything you need to know:

Shelf Life by Method

Soaking method:

• Refrigerated: 5-7 days maximum
• Room temperature: 24 hours only
• Signs of spoilage: Sour smell, cloudiness, mold

Boiling method:

• Refrigerated: 7-10 days
• Room temperature: Not recommended
• Lasts longer due to heat sterilization

Fermented method:

• Refrigerated: 2 weeks (after boiling to stop fermentation)
• Room temperature: 3-4 days before refrigeration
• Most stable option

Storage Best Practices

1. Always Refrigerate Store rice water in the refrigerator immediately after preparation. India’s temperatures (25-40°C) accelerate bacterial growth.

2. Use Glass Containers Avoid plastic bottles that can leach chemicals. Use:

• Glass spray bottles (₹100-200 on Amazon India)
• Amber glass bottles (protect from light)
• Sterilized containers only

3. Label with Date Write preparation date on bottle. Discard after maximum shelf life even if it looks fine.

4. Keep Away from Contamination

• Don’t dip fingers directly into bottle
• Use clean cotton pads or spray application
• Close lid tightly after each use

Preservation Techniques

Natural preservatives you can add:

• Vitamin E oil: 2-3 drops per 100ml (extends life by 3-4 days)
• Tea tree oil: 3-4 drops (antimicrobial properties)
• Grapefruit seed extract: 5-10 drops (natural preservative)

Important: These extend shelf life slightly but don’t replace refrigeration.

Signs Your Rice Water Has Gone Bad

Discard immediately if you notice:

• Foul or overly sour smell (different from fermented smell)
• Visible mold (white, green, or black spots)
• Separation that doesn’t mix when shaken
• Color change to yellow or brown
• Slimy texture

Freezing Rice Water

Yes, you can freeze rice water for extended storage:

1. Pour into ice cube trays
2. Freeze for up to 3 months
3. Thaw one cube at a time in refrigerator
4. Use within 3 days after thawing

Pro tip: Freeze in small portions so you’re not repeatedly thawing and refreezing.

Climate-Specific Storage for India

Summer months (March-June):

• Make smaller batches (use within 3-4 days)
• Store in coldest part of refrigerator
• Consider adding tea tree oil for extra protection

Monsoon season (July-September):

• High humidity increases contamination risk
• Use boiled method for longer shelf life
• Check daily for signs of spoilage

Winter months (November-February):

• Can make larger batches
• Still refrigerate—room temperature isn’t safe

Can we store rice water in fridge? Absolutely—it’s mandatory for safety. Room temperature storage is only acceptable for fermented rice water during the initial 24-48 hour fermentation period.

Which Rice Water Toner Method Works for Your Skin Type?

Rice water toner works for most skin types, but application and frequency vary based on your specific needs. Here’s your personalized guide:

Oily Skin

Suitability: Excellent ✓

Benefits:

• Controls excess sebum production
• Tightens enlarged pores
• Mattifies without over-drying
• Reduces shine throughout the day

Recommended method: Boiling method (more astringent) 

Frequency: Twice daily (AM and PM) 

Pro tip: Use fermented rice water for maximum pore-tightening effect

Dry Skin

Suitability: Very Good ✓

Benefits:

• Provides deep hydration
• Strengthens moisture barrier
• Reduces flakiness and tightness
• Plumps fine lines

Recommended method: Soaking method with aloe vera gel 

Frequency: Once daily (preferably PM) 

Pro tip: Follow immediately with a rich moisturizer to seal in hydration. Don’t let rice water air dry completely.

Combination Skin

Suitability: Excellent ✓

Benefits:

• Balances oil in T-zone
• Hydrates dry cheeks
• Evens out skin texture
• Minimizes pores selectively

Recommended method: Soaking or boiling method 

Frequency: Twice daily 

Pro tip: Apply more generously to oily areas, lighter on dry patches

Sensitive Skin

Suitability: Good (with precautions) ⚠

Benefits:

• Soothes inflammation and redness
• Gentle exfoliation without irritation
• Strengthens compromised barrier
• Calms reactive skin

Recommended method: Soaking method (least concentrated) 

Frequency: Start 3x per week, increase gradually 

Precautions:

• Always patch test for 48 hours
• Dilute with equal parts water initially
• Avoid fermented rice water (too acidic)
• Stop use if any irritation occurs

Acne-Prone Skin

Suitability: Very Good ✓

Benefits:

• Anti-inflammatory properties reduce redness
• Doesn’t clog pores (non-comedogenic)
• Balances pH to prevent breakouts
• Gentle enough for active acne

Recommended method: Boiling method with tea tree oil 

Frequency: Once daily initially, then twice daily 

Pro tip: Don’t use on open wounds or severe cystic acne without dermatologist approval

Mature/Aging Skin

Suitability: Excellent ✓

Benefits:

• Inositol promotes cell regeneration
• Antioxidants fight free radicals
• Improves elasticity and firmness
• Reduces appearance of fine lines

Recommended method: Fermented rice water (highest inositol content) 

Frequency: Twice daily 

Pro tip: Combine with retinol at night for enhanced anti-aging benefits

Who Should Avoid Rice Water Toner?

Contraindications:

• Active eczema or psoriasis flare-ups (consult dermatologist first)
• Known rice or grain allergies
• Extremely compromised skin barrier
• Open wounds or severe burns

Disclaimer: If you have any medical skin conditions, consult a dermatologist before incorporating rice water toner into your routine.

Skin Type Matrix

Skin Type	Method	Frequency	Key Benefit
Oily	Boiling/Fermented	2x daily	Oil control
Dry	Soaking + Aloe	1x daily	Hydration
Combination	Soaking/Boiling	2x daily	Balance
Sensitive	Soaking (diluted)	3x weekly	Soothing
Acne-Prone	Boiling + Tea Tree	1-2x daily	Anti-inflammatory
Mature	Fermented	2x daily	Anti-aging

Best Rice Water Toner in India (2026): Ranked by Price & Efficacy

If DIY isn’t your style, several excellent commercial rice water toners are available in India with proven formulations. Here are the top picks:

1. I’m From Rice Toner

Price: ₹1,800-2,200 (150ml) on Nykaa 

Rice content: 77.78% Goami rice extract (per a 2-month user review of I’m From Rice Toner)

Pros:

• Highest rice concentration available
• Viral K-beauty favorite with proven results
• Brightens and hydrates simultaneously
• Suitable for all skin types
• Milky texture absorbs quickly

Cons:

• Premium pricing
• May be too rich for very oily skin in summer
• Limited availability (often sold out)

Best for: Those seeking maximum efficacy and willing to invest

2. Dot & Key Rice Water Toner

Price: ₹495 (100ml) on Dot & Key website, Nykaa 

Key ingredients: Japanese rice water, hyaluronic acid, probiotics

Pros:

• Affordable Indian brand
• Alcohol-free formula
• Added hyaluronic acid for extra hydration
• Widely available online and in stores
• Lightweight texture

Cons:

• Lower rice concentration than I’m From
• Contains fragrance (may irritate sensitive skin)

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers wanting a reliable commercial option

3. Mamaearth Rice Water Toner

Price: ₹349 (150ml) on Mamaearth website, Amazon India 

Key ingredients: 96% pure rice water extract, 4% niacinamide

Pros:

• Most affordable option
• High rice water percentage
• Added niacinamide for brightening
• Toxin-free, dermatologically tested
• Easy availability across India

Cons:

• Thinner consistency
• Less luxurious feel than premium brands
• May require more product per application

Best for: First-time users and those on a tight budget

4. Good Vibes Rice Brightening Toner

Price: ₹225 (120ml) on Good Vibes website, Flipkart 

Key ingredients: Rice extract, witch hazel

Pros:

• Very affordable
• Minimizes pores effectively
• Removes leftover makeup and impurities
• Balances skin pH

Cons:

• Contains alcohol (may dry out skin)
• Lower rice concentration
• Basic formulation

Best for: Oily skin types needing pore control on a budget

Comparison Table: Commercial Rice Water Toners

Product	Price (₹)	Rice %	Best For	Pros	Cons
I’m From Rice Toner	1,800-2,200	77.78%	All skin types	Highest efficacy, viral favorite	Expensive, limited stock
Dot & Key	495	Moderate	Normal to dry	Hyaluronic acid boost, affordable	Contains fragrance
Mamaearth	349	96%	Budget buyers	Niacinamide added, toxin-free	Thin consistency
Good Vibes	225	Low	Oily skin	Pore minimizing, very cheap	Contains alcohol

Where to Buy in India

Trusted retailers:

• Nykaa: Widest selection, frequent sales
• Amazon India: Fast delivery, customer reviews
• Brand websites: Direct purchase, authenticity guaranteed
• Flipkart: Competitive pricing
• Purple: Curated K-beauty selection

Pro tip: Watch for sales during Nykaa’s Hot Pink Sale or Amazon’s Great Indian Festival to save 20-40% on premium toners.

Homemade vs. Commercial Rice Water Toner: Full Comparison

Choosing between homemade and store-bought rice water toner depends on your priorities: budget, convenience, and desired results. 

Here’s the complete breakdown:

Cost Comparison (3-Month Supply)

DIY Rice Water Toner:

• Rice (1.5 kg): ₹90
• Glass spray bottle: ₹150 (one-time)
• Optional essential oils: ₹200 (lasts 6+ months)
• Total: ₹440 for 3 months (₹147/month)

Commercial Toner (Mamaearth):

• 150ml bottle: ₹349
• Usage: 2 bottles needed for 3 months
• Total: ₹698 for 3 months (₹233/month)

Commercial Toner (I’m From):

• 150ml bottle: ₹2,000
• Usage: 2 bottles needed for 3 months
• Total: ₹4,000 for 3 months (₹1,333/month)

Savings with DIY: 58-89% compared to commercial options

Time Investment

DIY:

• Preparation: 5-10 minutes
• Frequency: Every 5-7 days
• Monthly time: ~30 minutes

Commercial:

• Preparation: 0 minutes
• Just open and use

Verdict: Commercial wins on convenience, but DIY requires minimal time

Efficacy Comparison

DIY Advantages:

• 100% pure rice water (no fillers)
• Customizable for your skin type
• Fresh batches ensure maximum potency
• Control over ingredients and concentration

Commercial Advantages:

• Stabilized formulations (longer shelf life)
• Added beneficial ingredients (niacinamide, hyaluronic acid)
• Consistent concentration and pH
• Dermatologically tested
• Convenient packaging (spray bottles, pumps)

Research insight: A 2024 study showed 10% hydration increase with rice water gel after 28 days (according to a 2024 MDPI study on rice water’s antioxidant activity). Both DIY and quality commercial products can deliver similar results.

Decision Matrix

Choose DIY if you:

• Want maximum cost savings
• Enjoy making your own skincare
• Have time for weekly preparation
• Prefer 100% natural ingredients
• Want to customize formulations
• Have access to refrigeration

Choose Commercial if you:

• Value convenience over cost
• Travel frequently
• Want longer shelf life
• Prefer tested formulations
• Don’t have time for DIY
• Want added active ingredients

Hybrid Approach (Best of Both Worlds)

Many users successfully combine both:

• Use DIY toner at home (morning routine)
• Keep commercial toner for travel and nights out
• Make DIY in winter, buy commercial in summer (spoilage concerns)

Pro tip: Start with DIY to test if rice water works for your skin. If you see results but find preparation tedious, invest in a quality commercial product.

Frequently Asked Questions

References & Sources

This article is grounded in peer-reviewed research and expert dermatology sources:

1. MDPI Cosmetics (2024) — Rice Water Skin Benefits: Antioxidant Activity, Hydration & Safety Study — Peer-reviewed research confirming 10% hydration increase and 80% ROS reduction
2. Allure Magazine — Best Rice Toners, Expert-Reviewed — Dr. Hadley King, Board-Certified Dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group
3. Healthline — Rice Water for Skin: Benefits and How to Use — Evidence review on historical and modern use
4. Medical News Today — Rice Water for Skin — Clinical overview
5. Kanvas Beauty — I’m From Rice Toner 2-Month Review — Product-specific user testing

Last reviewed: February 2026

Start Your Rice Water Routine: Quick-Start Checklist

Whether you’re a beginner or upgrading your skincare game, here’s your action plan:

If you’re trying rice water for the first time:
✅ Use soaking method (simplest, mildest)
✅ Patch test on inner wrist for 24 hours
✅ Apply once daily for first 2 weeks
✅ Store in glass bottle in refrigerator; use within 5 days

If you’ve already tried it and want better results:
✅ Switch to fermented method for glass skin effect
✅ Pair with Vitamin C (morning) + niacinamide (evening)
✅ Use overnight 3–4x weekly for accelerated brightening
✅ Consider I’m From Rice Toner for a commercial-grade option

Budget summary:

• DIY batch: ₹15–20 (lasts 5–7 days)
• Best budget commercial: Good Vibes at ₹225
• Best results: I’m From Rice Toner at ₹1,800–2,200