Rice Bran Ferment
Japanese tradition for
healthy & comfortable cleansing
Traditionally, rice bran has also played a role in Japanese food culture through nukazuke — vegetables pickled in a bed of fermented rice bran (nukadoko). This fermentation, driven by lactic acid bacteria, enhances flavor and is believed to support gut health, immunity, and even beauty. Rice bran itself contains valuable components such as γ-oryzanol, vitamins, and ceramides. It has even been said in Japan that the hands of those who prepare nukazuke remain especially smooth and beautiful.
Upcycling of rice bran and traditional fermentation
Rice bran (komenuka) is produced as a by-product when brown rice is polished into white rice. In Japan, where rice is a dietary staple, large amounts of rice bran are generated during milling. While some is used for rice oil extraction or fertilizer, a significant portion is still discarded, making effective reuse important for reducing environmental impact.
Special production
Lactobacillus/Rice Bran Ferment was found to add an attractive texture to a cleansing.
Features
Awards
Spotlight On Formulation Award 2025 Bronze Award
Attractive components in Rice Bran Ferment
Oil red staining revealed the presence of abundant oil content. It is thought to originate from the oil content of rice bran.
Optical microscope image
Optical microscope image with oil red staining
GC-MS analysis revealed that fermentation enhanced Beauty components contained in rice bran.
Component | … times increased | Known to be effective for… |
Salicylic acid | 14.5 | Soft pealing, anti-inflammation, preservative |
Suberic acid | 10.7 | Anti-photoaging Nutrients 11(22):2948, Cells 11(24):2961 |
Azelaic acid | 7.1 | Anti-inflammation, suppression of excessive sebum secretion |
Effects and benefits
The following test results demonstrate the usefulness of the product.
Improvement of skin roughness
Skin 3D-texture was measured after using facial cleansing containing 2% Rice Bran Ferment.
Improvement of skin moisture content
Skin moisture content and TEWL were measured after using facial cleansing containing 2% Rice Bran Ferment.
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● INCI Name: Lactobacillus/Rice Bran Ferment, Phenoxyethanol
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● Description: Light brown to brown liquid, with a characteristic odor
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● Recommended dosage: 2%
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● Toxicity & safety report: Available
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● Japanese Standards of Quasi-drug Ingredients: Not listed
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● Japanese patent: Applying
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● Chinese INCI: Not listed
Specifications
Applications
Recommended for following applications.
Facial wash: skin moisture
Body wash: hand, body
FAQ
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Where is the rice bran sourced from? What kind of rice bran is used?
We use rice bran sourced from Japan. While rice bran is often defatted in cosmetic ingredients, we use non-defatted rice bran in this product to harness its beneficial oily components for the skin.
What does contributes to its oil-cleansing effect?
The rice bran used in this product contains abundant oils. Their lipophilic properties and the mild scrub effect of rice bran help removing dirt.
Can it be used on baby skin or sensitive skin?
It is milder compared to many other scrubs like silica. However, please be mindful of the dosage and avoid rubbing too hard. We also recommend confirming its suitability in the final formulation.