Why Rice Bran Oil Is Great For Your Skin Care Routine

When you think of rice bran oil your kitchen pantry probably comes to mind, not your bathroom shelf. Skincare-obsessed countries like Japan and South Korea have been using this power-packed ingredient on their skin for centuries, and for good reason. Here’s why you’ll want to add this nourishing little product to your skincare routine (and bathroom shelf) ASAP, and why you’ll find it in plenty of Sundae products.

What is rice bran oil, and how is it different from rice extract?

Rice bran oil AKA rice bran extract is not to be confused with rice extract, though they both come from rice. Rice bran extract is an oil derived from the outer layer of the rice grain, known as the bran, where all the juicy antioxidants, B vitamins and hydrating fatty acids hang out. Rice extract, on the other hand, is a more broad term used to describe an extract pulled from any part of the rice grain, including the bran, germ or endosperm. It's usually water-based and can be used as a nourishing toner or to give your hair a silky shine.

So, why is rice bran oil good for the skin? 

It’s rich in antioxidants
One of the big things that makes rice bran oil good for your skin is the fact that it’s jam-packed with antioxidants. These mighty things ward off free radicals, keeping your skin looking fresh and forever young.

It locks in goodness without the grease
Rice bran oil contains vitamins B and D that work hard to get deep into your skin and banish dryness, paired with fatty acids like oleic acid and linoleic acid that hydrate your skin without leaving an oily sheen. You’ll be glowy, but in a good way. 

It supports your skin barrier
You know how we feel about barrier-loving skincare. Vitamins A, B and E work alongside ceramides and fatty acids to repair skin tissue and shield it from damage from UV rays, pollution and toxins, making your skin so much more resilient.

It’s anti-inflammatory
Yet another thing fatty acids are good for are calming inflamed skin and reducing redness. Oleic acid and linoleic acid are a dream team working together to soothe irritation, dryness, redness and swelling, just like a few of our other fave anti-inflammatory MVPs.

It’s nice and light
Rice bran oil is proudly not like other oils. It’s super light and absorbs like a dream, so your skin won't end up feeling sticky or greasy. 

It brightens and smoothes
Rice bran oil is loaded with natural compounds, like ferulic acid, collagen and antioxidants, that team up to brighten your complexion, fade dark spots and smooth fine lines.

Why does Sundae uses rice bran oil in our moisturisers?
When we were creating our Body Whip Moisturisers, we wanted to include the very best hydrating ingredients. We were looking for something lightweight and super absorbent that leaves the skin feeling soft, supple and luminous (but never sticky). Rice bran oil ticked all those boxes (and more), so the choice was easy. 

Now that you know about all the skin-loving things rice bran oil can do, you’ll probably want to fill your bathroom shelves with this super potent ingredient. First stop: our Body Whip Moisturisers, of course.

Happy Sundae x