Is Rice Milk Good For Acne? The Science of Non-dairy Milk

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Rice milk, a non-dairy beverage, is easy-to-digest and allergy-friendly ~University of Florida. 

When it comes to treating acne-prone skin, you will find rice milk as an effective alternative to cow’s milk. But is rice milk really good for acne-prone skin?

Generally, rice milk contains almost no omega-6 fatty acids, making it a safe dairy alternative for people with acne-prone skin. Besides, it contains vitamin A and D that can help rebalance hormone levels and fight acne (Source). 

Whether rice milk is good for acne depends on the type of rice milk. Plus, not every remedy works for every acne sufferer. This article will explore what rice milk is, its components and if it’s good for the skin.

What is Rice Milk? Common Components of Rice Milk

Rice milk is simply grain milk made from rice. The plant-based beverage is usually a substitute for regular dairy milk. 

The term “milk” is used for dairy beverages derived from cows. So, if you’re hunting for vegan rice milk in a supermarket, you will find it labeled as “Rice non-dairy Beverage.” 

Some common components found in commercially manufactured rice milk include:

• White or brown rice
• Brown rice syrup
• Plant-based oils
• Flavors or sweeteners

You can also fortify rice milk for better nutrition using vitamin D,  calcium, or vitamin B12. This raises its nutritional value, making it more beneficial for the skin.

A table of components of rice milk compared to cow milk

How to Make Rice Milk? Easy 6 steps

You can make rice milk at home without adding preservatives or harmful sweeteners. Making rice milk at home is cheap and healthier, but on the downside, it has a shorter shelf life than the rice milk you buy at the grocery store.

Easy 6 steps on making rice milk at home:

Step 1: Soak rice milk in lukewarm water for six to eight hours.

Step 2: Use large volumes of water to cook the rice until the rice is soft.

Step 3: Once the rice is tender, blend until it becomes a smooth paste.

Step 4: Use muslin or cheesecloth to strain the rice milk and separate solid particles from the milk.

Step 5: This is the time to add flavoring to your milk. You could add chocolate or strawberry essence to enhance the taste of the milk or keep it plain and simple with a light vanilla flavoring. 

Step 6: Refrigerate the milk for three to four days and consume it when required.

Is rice milk good for acne? A Study and Research Behind the Fact

Yes, rice milk is good for acne since it is not a low-glycemic beverage associated with frequent acne flare-ups. The risk of acne outbreaks can be lowered by using non-dairy milk such as rice, almond, oat, etc. 

Plant-based or grain-based milk does not contain fatty acids that contribute to increased sebum production. 

According to research by Florida university, rice milk is rich in acne-fighting vitamins, A, D and protein. These leave a gentle glow on your skin. 

In a study reported by Korean and American dermatologists in 2016, vitamin D deficiency can cause acne. Almost 48.8% of patients found with acne suffered from vitamin D deficiency. 

In this regard, it is necessary to ensure the proper balance of vitamin D in your body to fight against acne. According to a study, Vitamin D in rice milk has antimicrobial properties that are good for acne treatment.

Note: Though the evidence is insufficient, but it is thought that Vitamin D has a positive effect on regulating hormones which can prevent hormonal acne development.

On the other hand, Vitamin A in rice milk is a source of antioxidants that prevent free radicals and acne.  

American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), vitamin A can prevent and treat inflammatory acne lesions. 

Possible side effects of rice milk over acne: (Not proven for all skin types)

Apart from its positive effects, rice milk shows some adverse effects. It is richer in carbohydrates than other non-dairy beverages, stimulating insulin production and causing acne outbreaks. 

Besides this,  Rice milk is high in vitamin B12, which may help acne by disordering a type of skin bacteria known as Propionibacterium acnes.

How to Use Rice Milk for Treating Acne?

Rice milk in the morning and at night can help with acne. Use a cotton ball or a cotton patch to soak up the rice milk and slather it over your face. 

Applying the grain milk to your face regularly will prevent acne flare-ups and ensure your pores stay clean. It soothes irritated patches of your skin, avoiding inflammation due to acne.

Is Rice Milk Good For Your Skin?

Rice milk is not a common skincare ingredient, although it offers several benefits to the skin. 

1. Cleanser: Applying rice milk to your face ensures it remains perfectly cleansed. 
2. Brightens the skin: Rice milk also acts as a skin brightener, ensuring your skin looks smooth, bright, and radiant.
3. Reduces Scarring: It reduces dark spots and can help get rid of acne scars.
4. Gets rid of excess sebum: Rice milk reduces excess sebum present on the skin surface, minimizing the risk of pimple formation and acne
5. Natural Moisturizer: It locks the moisture in the skin, giving it a supple, younger-looking appearance.

Tip: You can add a few drops of witch hazel and Jasmine tea to the rice milk. The antiseptics will give you a smooth skin texture and get rid of blemishes. 

Is Rice Milk Good For Your Hair?

Yes, rice milk is excellent for hair health. It restores shine while hydrating dry and damaged hair. 

Dairy-free milk has been used for haircare for over 2000 years because of its surprising benefits. Rice milk aids hair growth since it contains amino acids that boost hair regeneration. 

Tip: Combine rice milk with Vitamins B, C, and E to promote hair growth. ~Healthline

FAQ

Is rice milk good for your face?

Yes, rice milk is good for the skin since it restores moisture, reduces excessive oil, and contributes to an even skin tone. Plus, it reduces dark spots, giving your skin a bright and youthful appearance.

How does rice milk soap benefit acne?

The rice milk present in the soap minimizes excessive sebum on the skin surface, preventing the formation of pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads that lead to acne.

Is rice milk soap good for pimples?

Although there is no scientific evidence to prove whether rice milk soap is good for pimples, rice milk is well known for reducing excess sebum on the skin, which may lead to fewer pimples. 

My Final Opinion

As an acne-sufferer, I understand how difficult life gets during an outbreak. I have tried countless remedies to make my acne disappear, but not everything works. But rice milk has been a life-changer for my skin! 

If you haven’t tried rice milk for acne treatment yet, I’d suggest heading to your grocery store and grabbing a carton. Or you could make your life easier by making it at home. I hope this article cleared your doubts about rice milk for acne.