Are there any side effects of using rice washing water to wash the face?
Dec 27, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, washing the face with rice-washing water may cause side effects such as skin keratin damage, impaired skin barrier function, skin pigmentation, allergic reactions, and folliculitis. It is recommended to choose an appropriate cleansing method based on individual skin type and to perform regular skin care. If any abnormalities occur, seek medical attention promptly and avoid self-medicating blindly to prevent worsening of the condition.
Generally, using rice washing water to wash the face may cause side effects such as skin keratin damage, impaired skin barrier function, skin pigmentation, skin allergy, and folliculitis. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Skin Keratin Layer Damage
Rice washing water may contain alkaline substances. Frequent use might lead to excessive removal of the keratin layer, making the skin sensitive. Skin sensitivity and redness may occur. Skin keratin layer damage can be repaired through moisturizing, gentle cleansing, and nourishment supplementation.
2. Impaired Skin Barrier Function
The skin barrier consists of the sebum membrane and keratin layer, which functions to prevent water loss and invasion of foreign substances. Washing the face with rice washing water may damage this barrier, making the skin more susceptible to environmental damage such as sunburn and dryness, and increasing the chance of exposure to allergens. This can be repaired by maintaining skin cleanliness, replenishing moisture, and practicing sun protection.
3. Skin Pigmentation
Long-term use of rice washing water to wash the face may cause melanin deposition in the skin, leading to the formation of dark spots. Pigmentation may cause uneven skin tone, affecting appearance. Under a doctor's guidance, topical medications such as tretinoin cream, hydroquinone cream, and azelaic acid cream can be used to help fade pigmentation.
4. Skin Allergy
Some individuals may develop allergic reactions to certain components in rice washing water, causing symptoms such as itching and swelling. If not treated promptly, exudation and crusting may occur, and it may even progress to eczema or urticaria. With a doctor's advice, calamine lotion, loratadine tablets, or cetirizine hydrochloride tablets can be used for treatment.
5. Folliculitis
Rice washing water contains high levels of nutrients. Prolonged contact with the skin may easily lead to bacterial proliferation, causing inflammation. Typical symptoms include red papules, pustules, and in severe cases, increased local skin temperature and pain. Follow medical advice to take medications such as cefuroxime axetil granules, cephalexin capsules, or doxycycline hydrochloride tablets for treatment.
It is recommended to choose appropriate cleansing methods based on individual skin types and perform regular skin care. If any abnormalities occur, seek medical attention promptly and avoid self-medicating blindly to prevent worsening of the condition.
