Splurge
Tatcha
The Dewy Skin Cream
7.2Good
A rich, scented line-plumping cream loved for its dewy finish and makeup prep, but costly and not for fragrance-sensitive skin.
Cream4$74.00
Botanicals & ferments· in 2 products
Rice extract & ferment
Also listed as Oryza sativa (rice) extract, Rice bran extract, Rice ferment filtrate (sake) and Saccharomyces/rice ferment filtrate
Emerging evidence
Rice extracts, rice water and rice ferments are traditional East Asian beauty ingredients now common in toners, essences and cleansers. They supply small amounts of amino acids, sugars, vitamins and antioxidants.
2RiRice extract & fermentBotanicals & ferments
What it does
The short version.
Rice bran contains antioxidants such as ferulic acid, gamma-oryzanol and tocotrienols, and fermentation with yeast or koji can add organic acids and amino acids. In skin care these mainly hydrate, soften and give a smoother, more luminous look. Lab and small human studies suggest antioxidant and mild brightening effects, but evidence that rice extracts change pigmentation or aging is limited.
Emerging evidence
Most data come from lab studies and small, often brand-sponsored trials of multi-ingredient products.
In our directory: It’s a key ingredient in 2 products we review, most often moisturizers and styling. Those products are mostly built for hydrating, plumping and fine lines. In formulas, it most often shares the label with glycerin, hyaluronic acid and squalane.
Reach for it for
Usually a good fit for
How to use it
Getting it right.
Use rice toners, essences or masks after cleansing, before heavier serums and moisturizer.
Layering
Friends & frenemies.
Before you start
Generally well tolerated. Ferment-based products sometimes contain fragrance or alcohol; patch test if your skin is reactive. Homemade rice water should be refrigerated and used quickly to avoid microbial growth.
References
- 1Dermatological uses of rice products: Trend or true? — Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (2022), via PubMed
- 2Evaluating In Vivo Penetration of Yeast Rice Ferment Filtrate Into Skin Using Confocal Raman Microspectroscopy: A Pilot Study — Skin Research and Technology (2025), via PubMed Central
Educational, not medical advice. Ingredient guides summarise published research and expert guidance; formulas and concentrations differ between products.
2 products
Every product with rice extract & ferment.
2 products
OUAI
Wave Spray
7.2Good
A salt-free texture spray for soft, undone beach waves without crunch; easy to use, but pricey for a light-hold mist.
Texture spray5$30.00
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