Stop Throwing Out Rice Water. Repurpose It In These 7 Creative Ways Instead

If you don't already have some leftover water from cooking rice, prepare some by first rinsing about 100g of rice in water to remove impurities, and then leaving it to soak in 400 ml of water for 15 to 30 minutes.

After the soak, strain the cloudy liquid and transfer it to a bottle of your choice. You are then left with a unique all-purpose product beneficial to your skin and hair because of its valuable content.

Rice water is loaded with antioxidants, vitamins, essential amino acids, and minerals, vital to any skincare routine. Here's how you can make rice water a part of your skincare routine:

1. To soothe irritated skin

A dermatological study has shown that two 15 minute baths of rice water every day helped soothe patients' symptoms with atopic dermatitis. This is attributed to the anti-inflammatory properties of rice water.

2. As a gentle cleanser

If you are prone to allergies, then a natural and gentle cleanser like rice water may be best for you. To apply, soak some cotton wool in rice water and massage it into your skin. Let it dry naturally so that your skin absorbs the essence of the rice water. Do this daily for supple and glowing skin.

3. For sunburn

Rice water can also provide relief to people with sunburn as it quickens the skin's healing process and prevents further damage. For an immediately soothing effect, cool the rice water before application.

4. A toner

Rice water keeps your skin looking young by promoting efficient blood circulation and maintaining your skin cells' integrity. So, when applied as a toner, the solution increases blood flow, reducing pores' appearance, and tightening the skin.

5. Soothe acne-prone skin

Thanks to the anti-inflammatory properties of rice water, it is highly beneficial to people with acne. It can soothe the redness and various inflammations associated with acne.

6. As a hair rinse

When applied to hair, rice water acts by promoting the hair's elasticity and reducing friction, which is linked to hair damage.

After washing your hair like you usually would, give it a rinse with rice water. This will quickly give your hair a healthy sheen and strength.

You can also choose to apply the solution by massaging it into your scalp and then rinsing with clear water.

7. As a conditioner

Add a few drops of your favorite essential oils to rice water to make an all-natural hair conditioner. Apply the mixture after shampooing, leave it to work for 10 minutes, and rinse with cold water.