As K-beauty continues to lead the global beauty industry, one traditional natural ingredient is once again taking center stage — rice.
For centuries, rice has not only been a staple food in Korea but also a key ingredient in skincare, cherished for its ability to brighten and purify the skin.
Today, modern research has scientifically validated what ancient wisdom long suggested: rice is a powerful natural ingredient that helps promote clear, healthy, and radiant skin. Rice — Nature’s Brightening Ingredient. Rice is rich in Niacinamide, Ferulic Acid, and Phytosterols, all known for their brightening and complexion-enhancing properties. These compounds inhibit the activity of tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for melanin production, helping to even out skin tone and reduce dark spots and pigmentation. Ferulic acid, in particular, is highly effective in preventing UV-induced pigmentation and reducing oxidative stress in the skin.
According to the Journal of the Society of Cosmetic Scientists of Korea, rice bran extract can inhibit melanin formation by more than 30%, significantly improving skin brightness and clarity. And Hydration and Skin Barrier Protection. The main components of rice — polysaccharides and amino acids — serve as natural moisturizers, helping the skin retain hydration and strengthening its barrier. These elements form a protective film on the skin’s surface, preventing moisture loss while keeping the complexion soft and supple. A study conducted by Kanazawa University in Japan found that participants who used a cream containing rice extract for two weeks experienced a 21% increase in skin moisture levels. This demonstrates that rice is not just a hydrating ingredient but also an effective agent for improving skin barrier function. Moreover, Anti-Aging Benefits from Powerful Antioxidants. Rice is packed with potent antioxidants such as Gamma-Oryzanol, Vitamin E (Tocopherol), and Ferulic Acid. These substances neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS) caused by UV exposure and pollution, helping to reduce cell damage and delay the formation of wrinkles. A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (JAAD) reported that a combination of ferulic acid and vitamin E can reduce UV-induced skin damage by more than half, highlighting the ingredient’s exceptional anti-aging potential. In addition, Soothing and Anti-Inflammatory Properties. Rice bran is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, plant-based polyphenols, and dietary fibers that help calm inflammation and reduce skin sensitivity. Clinical trials in Korea have shown that a cream containing rice bran oil reduced skin redness by 32% and lowered irritation levels to below 0.5, indicating that rice is a gentle and safe ingredient for sensitive skin.
These soothing properties make rice-based skincare particularly appealing to those seeking clean, non-irritating formulations. Futhermore, Exfoliation and Skin Texture Refinement. Rice contains Phytic Acid, a natural form of AHA that gently exfoliates dead skin cells and refines the skin’s surface without irritation. A domestic clinical study found that participants using a rice extract cleanser for two weeks saw a 28% improvement in skin texture and a 19% increase in radiance, confirming rice’s effectiveness as a mild yet efficient exfoliating ingredient. Besides, Rice: Nature’s All-in-One Skincare Solution. Rice is recognized as an all-in-one natural skincare ingredient that delivers five essential benefits — brightening, moisturizing, antioxidant protection, soothing, and gentle exfoliation. Thanks to its mild and eco-friendly nature, rice aligns perfectly with the rapidly growing clean beauty trend in the global cosmetics industry. Beyond being a traditional food source, rice has proven to be a scientifically validated skincare solution that restores the skin’s natural balance.
Its bioactive compounds brighten, hydrate, and protect the skin from environmental stressors, offering a complete skincare solution inspired by nature. For generations, rice has been an inseparable part of Korean life — and now, it’s becoming a cornerstone of the global beauty industry. By combining the purity of nature with scientific innovation, rice-based skincare products from MIAREUM set a new standard for beauty:
clear, balanced, and naturally healthy skin.
▲ RYUWON
▲ MIAREUM
▲ CEO JIHO YU
▲ www.miareum.co.kr
▲ ryuwon8700@gmail.com
SALLY LEE
US ASIA JOURNAL
