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.
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.