6 reasons why rice paper face mask should be a part of your skincare routine

They’ve become a big deal since sheet masks were introduced to the world! One of the favorite ingredients among many is rice water, a starchy liquid obtained after soaking or boiling rice. A widely used material to strengthen hair and protect the skin. If you want to add rice-derived products to your skincare routine, enjoy a rice paper face mask. Masks made from extremely thin rice paper may help hydrate and improve the texture of your skin. You can either purchase from the store and use it directly, or add ingredients such as aloe vera gel to replenish your skin. Learn about its benefits and how to use it at home.

What is a rice paper face mask?

This is a type of facial treatment made from thin rice paper specially treated to retain and supply nutrients to the skin. “The masks are usually infused with a variety of nutrients, including serum, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants,” says Dr. Karuna Malhotra, aesthetic physician and hairdresser.

The rice paper itself comes from a rice plant and is known for being soft, lightweight and gentle on the skin. “When applied, rice paper acts as a barrier to trapping active ingredients and helps penetrate deep into the skin,” experts say.

What are the benefits of rice paper face masks?

Some of the benefits of using a rice paper mask on your face are:

1. Moisturizes the skin

This face mask is very moisturizing as it often comes with a hydrating serum. This prevents dryness and keeps the skin nourished. “This is especially beneficial for people with dry skin who need to get even more hydration,” says the expert.

2. Good for brightening skin

Rice paper face masks usually contain ingredients such as vitamin C, rice extract, or niacinamide, all known for their ability to brighten the skin. “These ingredients work by reducing dark spots and reducing hyperpigmentation,” says Dr. Malhotra. According to Harvard Health Publications, Vitamin C can reduce dark spots by blocking the production of skin pigments.

3. It may help to remove the sunburn

Staying out in the sun for a long time can lead to sunburn, especially if you go out without sunscreen. Using rice products can help improve skin damage from the sun, according to a study published in 2013 in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine.

4. Improves skin texture

This type of face mask helps improve the texture of the skin as it helps with gentle peeling. “This helps smooth out rough patches of skin, and promotes skin regeneration, allowing the skin surface to feel softer and smoother over time,” says Dr. Malhotra.

5. Includes anti-aging effects

Rice paper face masks are often injected with ingredients such as collagen and hyaluronic acid, which are known for their anti-aging properties. “These ingredients help reduce the appearance of thin lines and reduce wrinkles by improving skin elasticity and providing deep hydration,” says the expert.

6. Gentle on sensitive skin

Rice paper is basically soft and non-aggressive, making it a great option for people with sensitive skin. A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology in 2022 shows that rice-derived skin care products are safe and inappropriate.

How do I use a rice paper face mask?

Here’s how to use a rice paper face mask at home:

• Soak the rice paper sheet in warm water for about 2-3 minutes, or until soft and soft.
• Once the rice paper is soft, apply a little rose water or aloe vera gel to the paper to enhance its soothing effect.
• Gently place the soaked rice paper on your clean face to ensure a comfortable fit around your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Make sure your face mask stays on your face for 15-20 minutes, so that the nutritional content of the mask penetrates the skin and provides hydration and other benefits.
• After 15 or 20 minutes, gently remove the rice paper face mask.

“Use a rice paper face mask once or twice a week,” the expert suggests.

Are there any side effects of using a rice paper face mask?

Rice paper face masks are usually safe to use, but there are some potential side effects to consider.

• If you are allergic to any of the ingredients used in rice paper face masks, you may experience itching, redness, or swelling.
• In rare cases, rice paper masks contain harsh additives or artificial fragrances, which can cause irritation, especially for people with sensitive skin.
• Using rice paper face masks frequently or leaving them on for too long can cause excessive drainage of the skin, especially if the mask is very moisturizing.

Use a rice paper face mask to moisturize your skin and help your skin deal with sun damage. However, although it should only be used once or twice a week, it may cause side effects rather than daily.