With everyone spending more time at home due to the various Movement Control Orders (MCO), many have gone into the kitchen to do more cooking, try their hand at new recipes and unleash their culinary talents.

Food aside, the kitchen can also be a great source of do-it-yourself beauty aids, and one that has been used all over Asia for the longest time is rice water.

Rice water is the starchy and cloudy water that remains after soaking or cooking rice. Those familiar with the traditional way of ‘cleaning rice’ (stirred and drained at least thrice) will know this.

The next time you find yourself with some extra rice water and extra time, keep in mind that rice water has been used for these highly beneficial purposes:

For flawless and smooth skin

The Koreans and Japanese are known to have been using rice water in their beauty regimes for a thousand years now, as it is said to be the secret to soft, radiant and supple skin.

A study has shown that rice water contains antioxidants that can help against sun damage. It protects the skin from UV exposure and has the ability to soothe sunburn.

The antioxidants contained in rice water also speed up cell and tissue renewal, which will help increase the production of collagen. What that means is that fine lines and wrinkles can be prevented.

Rice water also contains soothing properties, as it can provide relief to sensitive skin, inflammation and skin irritation. It is also said to help with dermatitis, eczema and acne.

Many skincare products use fermented rice water as part of their ingredients, as it contains pitera. Pitera helps rejuvenate dull and uneven skin, brighten pigmentation and make the skin glow from within. Plus, it also balances sebum production and shrinks large pores.

Tip: In lieu of a toner, wet a cotton pad with a couple of drops of rice water and gently smooth over the face.

For strong, soft and shiny hair

In Japan, women used rice water as an alternative to shampoo as it is said to help balance the pH level of the scalp.

For those with a dry, flaky and itchy scalp, rice water is the way to go. It also helps to manage frizzy hair and improve its texture.

The carbocyclic sugar (Inisitol) in rice water repairs damaged hair and prevents split ends, which eventually strengthens and reduces the chances of hair breakage, helping it to grow long and strong and soft and shiny.

Tip: After rinsing off your shampoo and conditioner, pour some rice water onto your hair and scalp before massaging it and leaving it on for 20 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with water. Do this as many times as you like in a week.

For the body and overall wellbeing

Rice water has cooling properties that help to replenish the skin and leave it feeling refreshed.

Adding it to the bath is said to help boost the mood, reduce tension and ward off tiredness or fatigue.

If you’re bored of plain water, you can also try a glass of rice water as it is a good source of energy. It can also help with food poisoning and stomach discomfort.

Tip: If you plan to drink rice water, all you need to do is boil three tablespoons of rice in two cups of water. Once the water turns milky, strain and cool it before drinking.