In Sri Lanka, rice is on every table. In Korea, it is also on the bathroom shelf. Korean women have used rice water to wash their faces for centuries, and today rice is one of the most popular ingredients in K-beauty.
Why rice works for skin
- Brightening: Rice extracts are loved for helping skin look clearer and more radiant.
- Nourishing: rice is naturally rich in nutrients that help soften and comfort skin.
- Gentle: The rice ingredients are generally mild, making them suitable for most skin types.
- Fermented rice: modern formulas often use fermented rice, a nod to traditional Korean rice wine making.
A word about DIY rice water
Homemade rice water spoils quickly in Sri Lanka's heat and can carry bacteria. Skincare products made with rice extracts are tested and preserved, so they are a safer way to enjoy the benefits.
Three rice favorites
1. MISSHA Airy Fit Sheet Mask Rice (Rs 490)
A light, skin-hugging sheet mask that nourishes and brightens dull-looking skin. It's free from parabens, mineral oil, silicones, alcohol, artificial fragrances, and preservatives. An easy, affordable way to start.
2. Beauty of Joseon Ground Rice and Honey Glow Mask (Rs 6,990)
A wash-off mask inspired by traditional Korean skincare. It combines makgeolli lees (a fermented rice wine by-product), rice hull powder for gentle exfoliation, 5% honey to hydrate and soothe, and kaolin clay to absorb excess oil and purify pores. It brightens, moisturizes, and leaves skin soft and glowing.
3. Beauty of Joseon Glow Replenishing Rice Milk (Rs 7,500)
A two-layer milky toner that hydrates while keeping shine under control. A lovely daily step after your weekly masks.
A simple weekly glow routine
Once or twice a week: the wash-off mask
- Cleanse your face.
- Apply the Ground Rice and Honey Glow Mask to damp skin.
- Massage gently for a few seconds for light exfoliation.
- Leave on for 5 to 10 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water.
Two or three times a week: the sheet mask
- After cleansing and toning, apply the Rice sheet mask.
- Relax for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Remove the mask and pat in the remaining essence.
- Use leftover essence in the pouch on your neck and arms.
Tip: the perfect pairing is the wash-off mask first, then a sheet mask straight after. Exfoliated skin soaks up the essence beautifully.
Don't overdo it.
- Exfoliating masks: no more than twice a week
- Not on the same night as other exfoliants like AHA, BHA, or scrubs
- Don't leave sheet masks on too long: once they start drying, they can pull moisture back out of your skin
Frequently asked questions
Will rice products lighten my skin color?
No. Rice helps skin look brighter and more radiant, but it won't change your natural skin tone.
Can oily skin use the Glow Mask?
Yes. Kaolin clay helps absorb excess oil, and honey keeps skin comfortable.
Can I use a sheet mask every day?
You can, but two or three times a week is enough for most people.
Have a question about your skin? Message us on Instagram or WhatsApp us on +94 77 846 5000. We're happy to help.
