Unlock Radiant Skin: The Power of Rice Flour in Skincare

Does Rice Flour Actually Help Your Skin?

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A quick browse around beauty YouTube will reveal a ton of tutorials for rice flour masks. Supporters of the substance claim that it brightens, exfoliates, and even shields the skin from ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

“While rice flour is not widely known in the United States, it is a widely used component in cosmetic products in East Asia, such as China, South Korea, and Japan,” says Dr. Suzanne Friedler, FAAD, a clinical instructor at Mount Sinai Medical Center and a board-certified dermatologist with Advanced Dermatology PC in New York City.

Although several rice components are extracted and utilized in skin care products, it’s not apparent how beneficial rice flour is for skin health on its own. What you should know about this highly anticipated yet understudied substance is provided here.

Whether it’s a tried-and-true skin care regimen, how often you wash your hair, or the cosmetics you’re interested in trying, beauty is subjective.

We consult a wide range of writers, educators, and other experts for guidance on anything from how various products are administered to which sheet mask is best for you.You can be sure that our team has done extensive research on a product or brand if you see a store link to it since we only recommend things that we actually enjoy.

What is flour made of rice?

The process of powdering rice grains yields rice flour. Because different rice flours are prepared in different ways, their potential health advantages may vary.

Like wheat, oats, rye, spelt, and corn, rice is a whole grain. The bran, germ, and endosperm are the three components that make up every whole grain.

The tough outer coating of rice grains is called bran. Given its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant characteristics, it’s regarded as the healthiest portion of the grain. Bioactive ingredients like phytic acid and ferulic acid, which are derived from bran, are also incorporated into several skin care products.

Rice flour is created by separating the three sections of the grain and grinding them down in different ratios, much like all other types of flour. The amount of bran and germ in the resultant flour can vary.

All three of the kernel’s components are present in whole grain flour. You will obtain every grain in “100% whole grain” flours. Simple “whole” flours lack some bran and the majority of the germ. Typically, white flour just comprises the endosperm.

Unless it says otherwise on the label, most rice flours you buy at the grocery store are manufactured from white rice.The bran and germ are removed from white rice, leaving only the starchy endosperm. 

How rice flour is said to benefit skin

There are a ton of homemade “skin lightening” face mask recipes on YouTube that primarily call for rice flour. Occasionally, the chemical is also advertised as a sunscreen and an exfoliator.

It has been demonstrated that some rice extracts can exfoliate skin and even provide sun protection. However, rice flour might not be strong enough to provide these results on its own.

The main components of rice flour are said to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to delay the aging process of the skin, lessen UV damage, lighten the skin, and enhance the formation of new skin and hair. According to Friedler, brown rice protein has been promoted as a natural exfoliator.

Rice starch is another ingredient used in many skin and hair care products to absorb extra oil.

A summary of the studies on each of these applications is provided here.

sun defense

Because rice flour includes ferulic acid and PABA, two substances that some beauty influencers claim can aid in sun protection, rice flour is said to benefit. It’s unclear, according to experts, if these compounds are concentrated enough in rice flour to offer the same advantages as an extract.

According to Friedler, para-aminobenzoic acid, also known as PABA or vitamin B10, is found in rice flour and promotes cell renewal.

PABA was formerly a component of sunscreen and has also been demonstrated to offer UV protection. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) No longer considers it to be a generally safe ingredient in sunscreens due to allergic reactions.

An organic substance with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant qualities is ferulic acid. In addition to many other plants, such as oats, eggplant, citrus, sweet corn, rye, and beets, it is derived from rice bran.

When combined with vitamins C and E, ferulic acid may further aid in shielding skin from harmful UV radiation.

It frequently appears in serums for skin treatment. According to Friedler, there are multiple studies that have been published in traditional dermatology journals endorsing its usage as an antioxidant and photoprotective agent.

To shield themselves from the sun, plants produce the vitamins C and E. Getting vitamin C and E from food (or supplements) shields people’s skin from UV radiation damage, or photodamage, especially when these vitamins are given topically.

Vitamins C and E, however, don’t keep well on shelves. According to certain studies, ferulic acid significantly increases the stability of vitamins C and E in skin care products.

In actuality, ferulic acid is a potent UV protectant that the skin may readily absorb. It might also boost the sun protection properties of vitamins C and E in skin care products.

Treatment for acne and hyperpigmentation

Fans of rice flour claim that it can brighten skin and assist with acne. Phytic acid, a different rice extract with exfoliating properties, is probably to blame for that. The amount of this chemical in rice flour and its impact on skin are unknown.

Alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) and antioxidant phytic acid. Numerous plants, including beans, seeds, nuts, and whole grains, can yield it. Then, it is included in skin care items.

Compared to other AHAs such as glycolic acid, phytotic acid has been found to be equally effective but kinder to the skin. Phytic acid is just as efficient as glycolic acid and salicylic acid in treating acne and hyperpigmentation (dark spots), according to a modest 2019 study (Trusted Source).

According to Dr. Bruce Robinson, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City and clinical professor of dermatology at Lenox Hill Hospital, phytic acid helps skin shed dead cells, which can help lessen the effects of aging. It is applied in chemical peels to lessen scarring and the appearance of dark spots (melasma).

According to Friedler, “phytanic acid appears to be helpful in the treatment of mild to moderate acne and post-acne inflammation.”

Wound recovery

Friedler adds that allantoin, another organic molecule found in rice, has calming and anti-inflammatory qualities. According to certain studies conducted in vitro (in lab settings) and on animals, it might aid in the healing of wounds.

Absorption of oil

The primary advantage of rice flour might be its capacity to absorb extra oil from the skin and hair. In essence, rice starch is rice flour with all the fat and protein removed, leaving just the carbs.  Rice starch stabilizes fat and binds to water. Starch comprises the majority of rice flours. 

Rice starch is an ingredient in many commercial skin and hair care products. Its capabilities include reducing pore appearance, controlling shine, and absorbing oil. Try the Skin Regimen Enzymatic Powder, OUAI Superdry Shampoo, or REN Clean Skincare Mattifying Face Sunscreen SPF 30.

According to Robinson, rice starch “may help absorb oil if in the proper preparation.” 

Why using rice flour might not be effective

A plant (in this case, rice) is soaked in a liquid for several hours to create an extract. The resultant extract contains more bioactive ingredients, such as phytic acid and ferulic acid.

The finished product may contain different amounts of these substances depending on how it’s made. However, the strength of an extract is typically much higher than the amount of the component present in the plant. 

According to Friedler, “the amount of active ingredient absorbed by the skin is a big unknown.”

Dr. Robinson states that merely putting homemade rice flour or rice bran paste to the skin won’t guarantee that you receive adequate phytic acid or ferulic acid.

Rice flour has little therapeutic evidence, therefore Friedler adds, “I do not routinely recommend it for my patients.” 

How to make good use of it

Try making an exfoliating DIY mask using rice flour if you want to use it at home. Combine it with a milder substance that has been shown to be more beneficial to skin, such as olive oil or rose water.

There’s no doubt that rice flour could eliminate oil from the skin. Almost any product can provide some exfoliation to the skin with gentle rubbing, according to Robinson. “However, I would not trust a do-it-yourself cosmetic product to do the job.” 

Make-your-own rice flour mask

A number of components are included in DIY rice flour mask recipes on YouTube that are meant to soften and brighten skin. Rice flour is often combined with oats, avocado, honey, milk, castor oil, and egg white in popular mask recipes found online, according to Friedler.

“These recipes are not supported by clinical data. But as long as the skin is in good condition and has not developed an allergy to any of the substances, there’s no harm in giving these homemade masks a try.

As long as you use rice flour sparingly, Robinson concurs that it shouldn’t irritate skin. If you notice any redness, itching, or infection-related symptoms, stop using it. 

Here is a basic homemade recipe you can attempt if you want to make your own rice flour mask at home:

• Combine 5 tablespoons brown rice flour and 3 tablespoons (tbsp) milk powder.
• Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and blend (omit if your skin is too oily).

• Gradually stir in rose water until a thick paste forms.
• After applying to the face, let it air dry for ten to fifteen minutes.
• After adding a small amount of water to loosen the mask, gently rub the face to exfoliate it.
• Wash again.

Another choice? According to Friedler, you can wash your body with brown rice flour by soaking it in water or adding it to your bath. 

In summary

Adding rice flour to homemade face masks is a widespread practice, as it is said to brighten, exfoliate, and shield skin from UV rays. None of these advantages are currently supported by research.

Skin care products use rice’s bioactive ingredients, such as phytic acid extracts, PABA, and ferulic acid, to lighten dark spots, exfoliate skin, and shield against UV rays. However, these components are found in extracts at higher concentrations than in rice flour.

Additionally, rice starch is utilized in cosmetics to absorb oil and lessen gloss. The finest benefits from a rice flour mask made at home can probably be achieved by mixing it with skin-beneficial components like olive oil. Apply it to your skin to give it an exfoliating feel.

Six Different Skin Conditions: How to Use, Benefits, and Recipes for DIY Face Masks 

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Do you struggle with wrinkles, age spots, oily skin, or acne? Excellent skin is not only inherited. It also entails developing a regimen for maintaining healthy skin that includes washing, exfoliating, and moisturizing your face.

Some people go to spas to keep up a youthful, healthy appearance, but these visits can add up over time. Unquestionably, there are advantages, but what if you could achieve the same effects with a homemade face mask?

Yes, you can.

You may create a homemade face mask with a variety of items from your kitchen, such as avocado, oatmeal, honey, turmeric, or banana. These easy recipes might help with a variety of common skin issues, from dull skin to pimples.

1. Mask for acne

The most prevalent skin condition in the US is thought to be acne.

Blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, nodules, and cysts are all examples of acne, which is caused by bacteria, oil, and dead skin cells clogging pores.

On the other hand, the protein in egg whites might help eliminate microorganisms from the skin and prevent blemishes. 

Components:

•  two to three egg whites

Guidelines:

• After separating the egg whites from the yolk, transfer the whites to a basin.
• Dab the egg whites on your face using a cotton swab that has been dipped into the bowl.
• Give the mask ten to fifteen minutes to sit.
• After wiping with a moisturizing cloth, moisturize. 

2. Mask for hyperpigmentation

Darkened skin patches that are frequently caused by sun exposure, aging, or acne are referred to as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Although they are often costly, dermatological treatments can aid in the reduction of hyperpigmentation. Make your own turmeric mask at home to even out your skin tone and reduce inflammation for a fraction of the cost.

Components:

• 1/2 tsp. ground turmeric
• 1-2 tablespoons of raw honey

Guidelines:

• In a bowl, combine all ingredients to make a paste.
• Apply the paste on your face gently.
• After letting it sit for ten minutes, rinse with warm water. 

3. Mask for clogged pores

The exfoliating qualities of oatmeal and baking soda can help clear clogged pores and exfoliate dead skin cells.

Components:

• Two teaspoons of oats
• One teaspoon of baking soda

Guidelines:

• In a bowl, mix the baking soda and oats. 
•  To create a paste, gradually add a few drops of water.
• Gently apply the paste on your face, and then let it dry.
• Moisturize after washing with warm water. 

4. Mask for oily skin

Excess sebum production from your pores is the cause of oily skin.

Oils can clog pores, which can lead to irritation and acne. Lemons help clear pores, and bananas can help absorb oil from the skin.

Components:

• One banana
• Ten drops of lemon juice
• One teaspoon of extra virgin olive oil

Guidelines:

• Banana mashed in a bowl. To make a liquid paste, add the olive oil and lemon juice.
• Put the mask on your entire face. After 15 minutes of sitting, rinse it off with warm water.

5. Mask for dry skin

You can reduce dullness and irritation and help your skin retain moisture with a moisturizing face mask. 

Components: 

• halved cucumber
• Double-stick aloe vera gel

Directions:

•  Blend the cucumber and add the aloe vera gel together.
• Apply the paste on your face gently.
• After letting it sit for half an hour, rinse it off with water.

6. Mask for wrinkles

Frequent facial treatments can encourage tighter, firmer skin and lessen the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Use honey to soften and hydrate skin, and avocados and cocoa powder to boost the formation of collagen.

Components:

• Two avocados
• One tablespoon of raw honey
• Two tsp. of cocoa powder

Instructions: 

• Mash the avocados in a bowl, then stir in the honey and chocolate powder.
• Rub the mask all over your face gently.
• After 20 minutes, let it sit and then rinse with warm water. 

What are the skin benefits of face masks?

Your skin can be nourished and moisturized using a face mask. Because the substances can remain on your skin for ten to thirty minutes, these treatments work well.

Your skin is deeply cleaned by the vitamins and nutrients, which also eliminate the topmost layer of dead skin. The skin can be cleansed, tightened, exfoliated, softened, and brightened with facial masks.

In addition to being less expensive than going to a spa, an over-the-counter rinse-off or peel-off mask can be created at home if you lack the necessary components or time. 

Rinse-off masks are removed when they dry using a warm or cool cloth. Gel-based peel-off masks are used for exfoliation and deep cleaning. After applying the mask and allowing it to solidify, you will peel it off.

Another choice is to use a sheet mask. You’ll cover your face with a facial sheet that contains nutrients and minerals in place of a lotion or gel.

The dos and don’ts of facial masks

To get the most out of a face mask, follow these dos and don’ts. 

DO’S :

• Wear the mask for ten to thirty minutes. This permits the chemicals to seep through to your skin. One choice is to apply before stepping into the bathtub or shower.
• Before using a mask, wash your skin with water and a mild cleanser. This improves the mask’s ability to penetrate the skin.
• After removing the mask, use a moisturizer.
• Select an over-the-counter face mask according to the type of skin on your face. If your skin is prone to acne or oiliness, opt for an oil-free mask that won’t clog your pores.
• After taking off the mask, spray cold water on your face to seal the pores. 

DON’TS:

•  If you have an allergic reaction (redness, itching, or rash) or skin irritation, avoid wearing a mask.
• Avoid wearing a mask at night. Apply no more than twice a week.
• It is important to remove the mask quickly to avoid irritating your skin.
• When removing the mask, avoid scrubbing your skin. Redness and discomfort may result from this. 

Conclusion

Maintaining a consistent skin care regimen can help reduce oiliness, treat acne, and enhance your complexion. However, don’t believe that excellent outcomes require a posh spa.

You can give your face the nutrition and moisture it needs by creating a homemade facial mask with items from your kitchen.