Archive · 12 Sep 2026
Athiya Shetty Shares Rice Water Hack for Pigmentation
Athiya Shetty said she uses leftover rice water to help with pigmentation and dull-looking skin.
Rice water is the starchy liquid left after rice is soaked or rinsed.
Some experts say it contains nutrients and antioxidants that may help skin feel calmer and look healthier.
However, it may not produce quick or dramatic results.
People with sensitive skin could develop irritation or an allergic reaction.
A small patch test can help check how the skin reacts.
One doctor recommends leaving it on for only 10 to 15 minutes before rinsing.
Rice water should be fresh, stored hygienically, and used only a few times a week.
Athiya Shetty said she saves leftover rice water, chills it, and sprays it on her skin.
Dermatologists describe rice water as a starchy liquid containing vitamins, amino acids, minerals, and antioxidants.
Experts say rice water may soothe irritation and support skin appearance, but its effects may vary.
Sensitive users could experience irritation or allergic reactions, so experts recommend a patch test.
Doctors advise using freshly prepared rice water briefly, a few times weekly, rather than leaving it on overnight.
- Who
- Athiya Shetty, with comments from dermatology and medical experts.
- What
- She shared a rice-water skincare method for pigmentation and uneven skin tone.
- When
- During a conversation on Mira Kapoor’s podcast Skin & Within; no date was specified.
- Where
- The advice was discussed in an Indian Express article; the podcast location was not specified.
- Why
- To share a simple home remedy and assess its possible benefits and safety for skin.
Potential Benefits
Safety Limitations
Effectiveness and use
Potential Benefits
Experts said rice water’s nutrients and antioxidants may soothe irritated skin and support a more radiant appearance when used consistently.
Safety Limitations
Experts cautioned that results may not be immediate or dramatic, and that individual reactions vary; excessive or unhygienic use may cause problems.
Application method
Potential Benefits
Athiya Shetty described spraying refrigerated rice water on her skin as a simple home routine.
Safety Limitations
A physician recommended short contact of 10 to 15 minutes, followed by rinsing, rather than leaving rice water on overnight.
- Home remedy
- Leftover rice water can be refrigerated and sprayed on the skin, according to Athiya Shetty.
- What rice water is
- The starchy liquid obtained by soaking or rinsing uncooked rice.
- Potential properties
- Experts cited vitamins, amino acids, minerals, antioxidants, vitamin E, and ferulic acid.
- Recommended contact time
- Apply as a toner or rinse, leave on for 10 to 15 minutes, then wash off.
- Usage frequency
- Use only a few times a week and monitor the skin’s response.
- Main safety concern
- Sensitive users may experience irritation or allergic reactions.
- Storage guidance
- Fresh preparation and hygienic storage are important to help avoid microbial contamination.