Are Rice Skincare Products Worth the Hype? My Full Routine Review (Toner to Cream!)

Why Rice?

Rice in skincare isn’t just a modern trend—it’s a centuries-old secret rooted in Asian beauty rituals, especially in Japan and Korea. Back in the day, women who worked in rice fields were known for having incredibly soft, bright skin. Curious why? The answer lies in rice water, which is rich in antioxidants, amino acids, and vitamins.

I kept seeing rice-based products everywhere—Instagram reels, K-beauty forums, and even friends recommending it. My skin was looking a bit dull and uneven, and I was craving a healthy, natural glow. That’s when I decided to try something different: a full rice skincare routine, from toner to cream. Here's what happened.

Quick Glance: What’s in My Routine (and Why I Chose Each)

Let’s break down my rice-infused lineup:

✅ Cleanser: Gentle, low pH cleanser with rice bran water

Why I kept it: It removed dirt without stripping my skin. Rice bran water brightened my face and made it feel clean yet soft.

✅ Toner: Rice-based toner, light and hydrating

Why I kept it: It prepped my skin beautifully for the next steps and added instant hydration with a calming feel.

✅ Serum: Rich in rice extract and niacinamide

Why I kept it: This serum felt like the glow-giver. It helped brighten my skin tone, minimized pores slightly, and gave a smoother look overall.

✅ Cream: Nourishing rice cream with ceramides

Why I kept it: I loved how this sealed in everything and added long-lasting moisture. It didn’t feel heavy and gave a dewy, glass-skin finish.

Full Routine Results – My Experience

My Skin Type: I have combination skin with some sensitivity. My cheeks get dry, but my T-zone gets oily fast.

How Long I Used It: I followed this routine consistently for 3 weeks—both morning and night.

What I Noticed:

• By week 1: My skin felt more hydrated and softer.
• By week 2: The dullness started fading. My tone looked more even, and my skin felt bouncier.
• By week 3: I had a noticeable glow. Not glass-skin level perfect, but definitely smoother and radiant. Even makeup applied better!

Any Cons?

• For oily areas, the layering sometimes felt like “too much.” I had to use thinner layers.
• On extremely hot days, I skipped the cream in the morning to avoid feeling greasy.
• If you have acne-prone skin, the gentleness of these products may not target breakouts directly.

Texture & Barrier: My skin barrier felt stronger, and texture around my chin area improved—less flakiness and fewer bumps.

Pros & Cons of Rice Skincare

Pros
✅ Brightens dull skin naturally
✅ Makes skin feel softer and more hydrated
✅ Works well for sensitive skin (non-irritating)
✅ Gentle enough for daily use and layering with actives

Cons
❌ Might be too light for very dry skin types
❌ Some products may be too gentle for acne-prone or oily skin
❌ Requires consistent use for visible results

Who This Routine Is For?

If your skin feels tired, dehydrated, or dull, rice-based skincare can be a gentle, glow-boosting reset. It’s best for:

• Sensitive or dry skin types
• Beginners looking for simple, effective products
• Anyone wanting a natural glow without harsh actives

Rice skincare layers beautifully with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and even retinol. Whether you use one rice product or the whole set like I did, your skin will thank you for the boost!

✨ Try the Glow Yourself!

If your skin’s feeling dull or tired, rice-based skincare might be the gentle reset it needs. Try adding just one step—or go full-routine like I did. Your glow is waiting! 

The 4 Must-Have Rice Products That Transformed My Skin

1. 9Wishes Rice Foaming Cleanser

Photo: Amazon

Texture, Foaminess, and Cleansing Power:

• This cleanser has a thick consistency that transforms into a rich, foamy lather upon contact with water. It's formulated with micro-ground rice powder and rice bran water, providing gentle exfoliation while effectively cleansing the skin without stripping natural moisture.

Does It Dry Out or Leave a Film?

• Users have reported that the cleanser does not dry out the skin or leave a film. Instead, it leaves the skin feeling clean and comfortable, without tightness.

Suitable Skin Types:

• Suitable for various skin types, including oily, acne-prone, combination, and sensitive skin. Its gentle exfoliation and moisturizing properties make it versatile for many users.

2. Anua Rice 70 Glow Milky Toner

Photo: Amazon

Watery or Thick?

• This toner has a milky consistency that's slightly thicker than water but still lightweight. It spreads easily and absorbs well into the skin.

How It Feels on the Skin:

• The formula is gentle and soothing, leaving the skin feeling soft and supple without any stickiness.

Instant Hydration or Long-Term Effects?

• Provides immediate hydration upon application. With consistent use, ingredients like ceramides and niacinamide work to strengthen the skin barrier and enhance brightness over time.

 

3. Anua Rice 7+ Ceramide Hydrating Barrier Serum

Photo: Amazon

Active Ingredients (Rice + Niacinamide?):

• This serum combines rice extract with ceramides to deeply hydrate and strengthen the skin barrier. While niacinamide isn't highlighted as a primary ingredient, the focus is on moisture retention and barrier support.

Effects After 7–14 Days:

• Users have noted increased skin hydration and improved texture within the first two weeks of use. The serum absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue, making the skin feel soft and supple.

Skin Texture, Glow, Tone:

• Regular application contributes to a smoother skin texture and a more radiant complexion. The hydrating properties help in achieving a healthy glow.

 

4. I'm From Rice Cream (1.76 oz)

Photo: Amazon

Rich or Lightweight?

• This cream offers a balanced consistency—rich enough to provide deep nourishment but lightweight enough to absorb without heaviness.

How Well It Seals Moisture:

• Formulated with 41% rice bran essence and ceramides, it effectively locks in moisture, enhancing the skin's barrier function.

Good for Day or Night Use?

• Versatile in its application, this cream is suitable for both day and night use. During the day, it sits well under makeup, and at night, it provides ample hydration for overnight skin repair.