Recently, Rice & Clove Gel, a homemade skincare treatment made with rice and cloves, has gained major popularity on social media. It is often presented as a Korean skincare-inspired remedy that may help the skin look smoother, brighter, and more cared for.
The trend is based on a very simple recipe: rice, cloves, and water. But is a natural homemade product suitable for everyone? We discussed this beauty phenomenon with a skincare specialist to understand how this mixture may affect different skin types and concerns.
Why can the skin look smoother after using it?
According to the specialist, when rice is boiled, starch is released into the water. On the skin’s surface, this starch may temporarily create a softer and smoother feel. As a result, light reflects more evenly from the skin, making it appear more radiant and refined.
However, this temporary effect should not be confused with actual pore reduction or long-term changes in skin texture.
Cloves, on the other hand, contain eugenol and other plant compounds. While these substances have interesting properties, they may also irritate sensitive skin.
For dry skin, rice gel may temporarily provide a softer, smoother feeling. However, it cannot replace a complete moisturizing and barrier-supporting skincare routine. If the skin is both dry and sensitive, cloves may cause redness, tightness, or a burning sensation.
For oily and acne-prone skin, the antimicrobial properties of cloves do not mean that this homemade product can treat acne. On the contrary, a highly concentrated clove mixture may irritate already inflamed skin.
For sensitive skin or skin prone to rosacea or eczema, specialists recommend being particularly cautious with this type of DIY treatment. Cloves may intensify redness, itching, or burning and may further compromise the skin barrier.
For pigmentation and dark spots, this gel may at most provide a temporary more refreshed appearance, but it should not be considered a treatment for pigmentation. Ingredients such as niacinamide, vitamin C, azelaic acid, and daily sunscreen are much better studied for these concerns.
The same applies to enlarged pores. When the skin is hydrated and smooth, pores may temporarily appear less visible, but a homemade gel cannot physically “close” pores.
How Is Rice & Clove Gel Prepared?
The recipe commonly shared on social media includes:
- 2 tablespoons of rice
- 8–10 cloves
- 1 cup of water
Add the rice, cloves, and water to a pan and cook over low heat until the mixture thickens and develops a gel-like consistency.
Allow it to cool completely. If desired, strain the mixture or blend it lightly for a smoother texture.
Apply a thin layer to clean skin, leave it on for around 15–20 minutes, and then rinse with water. It is advisable to perform a patch test first and monitor how your skin reacts.
It is also important to remember that homemade skincare products like this do not contain preservatives. Refrigeration does not make them sterile, so preparing large quantities and storing them for long periods is not recommended.
The main lesson from this trend is simple: impressive “before and after” results on social media do not necessarily mean that a product can treat a skin condition. Rice & Clove Gel may provide a temporary cosmetic effect, but for acne, pigmentation, rosacea, or a damaged skin barrier, targeted and professionally formulated skincare is a more reliable choice.
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