Don’t Sleep On Komenuka (Rice Bran) And Its Powerful Beauty Benefits | CoolJapan

Komenuka or rice bran earned its status as a popular Japanese beauty ingredient because of its many skincare benefits. One of its origins is said to be the haircare routine of court ladies during the Heian Period (794 -1185), who used water from washed rice to wash their hair. Geishas were also believed to have used rice bran to keep their skin soft.


Komenuka a.k.a. rice bran

Komenuka a.k.a. rice bran has many skincare properties you might be sleeping on. (Photo from: Photo-AC)


Fast forward to the present, rice-centric beauty trends are on the rise on TikTok and YouTube. Many beauty products also use komenuka or rice bran as their main ingredient because of its many science-backed beauty benefits.

Komenuka (rice bran) beauty benefits


1. It’s rich in antioxidants and skin-nourishing properties


Komenuka is rich in antioxidants which help combat early signs of ageing. It’s also a source of oryzanol which helps strengthen the skin barrier, especially against UV-A and UV-B damage.

2. Helps combat irritation and inflammation


If you have sensitive skin that’s prone to inflammation, irritation, and allergies, komenuka is also recommended as a gentle yet effective soothing remedy. This is because oryzanol also helps suppress enzymes that often trigger inflammation and irritation. Komenuka or rice bran also helps prevent and lessen redness and itching caused by skin issues like dermatitis or eczema.


Komenuka/rice bran beauty benefits

Komenuka’s many beauty benefits help revive the skin’s natural-looking health and glow. (Photo from: Photo-AC)


3. Has tons of moisturising properties


This ingredient is also known for being rich in fatty acids and vitamin E which help keep the skin retain and absorb moisture better. That’s why komenuka products are often targeted towards dry skin types. But it’s pretty versatile and can be used by those who have normal and oily skin types as well.

4. Brightening and effective against hyperpigmentation


Komenuka is also rich in vitamins A, B3, and B12 which are all known for their brightening and anti-hyperpigmentation properties. Constant use of komenuka-infused products is said to be great for improving the appearance of dark spots and uneven skin tone and texture, resulting in more youthful, luminous-looking skin.

J-beauty products with komenuka (rice bran)


1. Tatcha The Rice Polish Classic



This exfoliant uses Japanese rice bran and silk protein to help the skin get smooth and supple. It also helps deal with dullness and uneven skin texture. Get it here.


2. meeth & Skin Oil



This multipurpose skincare product uses komenuka oil as its main ingredient, and other nourishing oils like sunflower, avocado, and jojoba. It can be used to hydrate and moisturise your face, body, hair, and nails. It’s still out of stock as of writing (perhaps a testament to its goodness!) but watch this space for when it becomes available in Singapore again.

3. Rosette NoAdditive Rice Bran Face Wash


This face cleanser, made with 100% plant-derived ingredients, has komenuka as its star worker. It promises to keep the skin feeling fresh and hydrated while effectively removing dead skin cells and impurities. Get it here.


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Posted by Amanda Arambulo
on 3 Apr, 2023
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