This Korean toner is the hydration secret behind supermodel skin

Few things impress as consistently as Korean skincare. Natural ingredients, silky textures, and visible results. It is this last point that has likely helped Korean beauty quietly take over routines around the world, even when it comes to the simplest products that do not seem essential at first glance.

Which is exactly why it comes as no surprise that one such minimalist product has found its way into the routines of supermodels like Jasmine Tookes and beauty influencer Ava Lee, known for her analytical approach to skincare. Both swear by Korean toners formulated with rice extract.

It is rare for a single product to win over both supermodels and ingredient-savvy beauty enthusiasts who care deeply about real efficacy, but the power of rice extract seems to bridge that gap. What sets rice-based toners apart is not some intimidating new technology or complicated method of application, but thoughtfully balanced formulas in which carefully chosen ingredients work in harmony.

Korean skincare has long been synonymous with innovation, but also with a deep understanding of what skin truly needs. In this case, the philosophy of “less is more” proves to be the key. A simple formula allows the skin to calm, hydrate, and repair itself, without unnecessary overload.

Below, we take a closer look at what is really behind this seemingly modest, yet remarkably effective ingredient.

What is rice extract?

Rice can be found in skincare in many forms, including rice grain extract, rice oil, fermented rice extract, and rice water. All of these are deeply nourishing for the skin. Rice is a rich source of antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and the highly valued ferulic acid, as well as zinc, an increasingly popular ingredient in the care of blemish-prone skin.

In haircare products, especially with the popularity of protein masks, rice extract often appears in the form of rice proteins. However, in skincare, rice grain extract and rice water are used most frequently because of their exceptionally nourishing properties, particularly when found in formulas such as toners.

Rice grain extract improves the skin

Rice grain extract, whether in the form of oil or a pure extract, nourishes and protects the skin while improving its texture. Regular use of a toner containing this ingredient results in softer, smoother, more radiant skin. Rice grain extract works in the following ways:

• Intensely hydrates and softens the skin

• Soothes irritation and reduces redness

• Helps relieve issues caused by hard water

• Contributes to a more even, luminous complexion

Rice water for more radiant skin

Toner formulas with rice extract often also include rice water, a natural source of hydration rich in vitamins, amino acids, and minerals such as zinc and magnesium. With regular use, it helps keep the skin softer, smoother, and more elastic, while soothing irritation and preparing the complexion to better absorb other active ingredients. The main benefits of rice water include:

• Deep hydration and moisture retention

• Softening and smoothing of the skin

• Reduction of redness and irritation

• Gentle brightening and evening of the complexion

• Strengthening of the skin’s natural barrier

Fermented rice extract for a stronger effect

Fermented rice extract is becoming increasingly popular due to its powerful properties. It is obtained through the fermentation of rice grains, a process that breaks down active molecules such as ferulic acid, amino acids, and peptides into smaller components that penetrate the skin more easily. Fermentation also enhances its effect on the skin’s microbiome, strengthening the skin barrier and supporting overall skin health. The benefits of fermented rice extract include:

• Protection against premature aging thanks to antioxidants

• Soothing of irritated skin

• Strengthening of the skin barrier and support of a healthy microbiome

Rice extract as a natural solution for dark spots

Beyond its deeply nourishing effects, rice extract is also popular as an ingredient for achieving a radiant, even complexion. Naturally rich in antioxidants, it helps reduce the appearance of dark spots and calm inflammation that can contribute to their formation. For a stronger brightening effect on pigmentation, however, it is recommended to combine rice extract with vitamin C and niacinamide.

How to incorporate rice extract into your routine

The beauty of rice extract, in any form, truly comes through when you introduce a rice-based toner into your daily routine. A toner can be used both morning and evening. In the morning, it prepares the skin for serum and moisturizer while adding an extra layer of hydration. In the evening, it can be applied after cleansing to soothe and restore the skin.

Thanks to its calming and hydrating properties, a rice extract toner is especially beneficial in routines that include retinoids, exfoliating acids, or other active ingredients. Its gentle yet effective formula helps reduce the risk of irritation, redness, and sensitivity, leaving the skin more balanced and ready for further care.

In addition, rice extract toners pair beautifully with other antioxidant-rich products, such as vitamin C serums, to further protect the skin from external stressors and promote a more even complexion. For best results, gently pat the toner into the skin rather than rubbing it in, which supports better absorption of active ingredients and helps maintain the skin’s natural barrier.

Rice extract as an ideal solution for sensitive skin

For those with sensitive, dehydrated, or reactive skin, these toners offer gentle yet effective daily care. A minimalist formula does not mean compromised results. Carefully selected natural ingredients deliver maximum benefits and long-lasting effects. By adding a rice extract toner to your routine, you can enjoy skin that looks radiant, hydrated, and healthy.

In the end, a simple step such as using a rice-based toner can significantly elevate your entire skincare routine, bringing softness, freshness, and glow without the need for complicated formulas or multiple extra steps.