Rice Sebum Toner
Rice Sebum Toner
Product Description
Product overview
A dual-layer sebum-controlling toner formulated with 80% rice bran water and silica powder to balance oily skin, refine pores, and deliver lightweight hydration without clogging pores. Features the patented MIDHA 8 Complex and soothing Houttuynia Cordata extract for calm, matte-finish skin.
80% Rice Bran Water
Nutrient-rich rice bran water delivers deep hydration with vitamins and minerals while keeping the formula lightweight.
Texture & feel
SENSORY80% Rice Bran Water
Nutrient-rich rice bran water delivers deep hydration with vitamins and minerals while keeping the formula lightweight.
Dual-Layer Formula
Shake to activate: liquid layer hydrates while silica powder absorbs excess sebum and refines pore appearance.
Houttuynia Cordata Extract
Also known as Heartleaf, this soothing botanical calms irritated skin and helps reduce acne-related inflammation.
MIDHA 8 Complex
Patented blend of 8 botanical extracts including Ginkgo Biloba, Oat, and Evening Primrose for comprehensive skin care.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFree from retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and chemical sunscreens. Safe to use during pregnancy and while nursing.
Contains rice-derived ingredients which may provide sugars/starches that Malassezia yeast can feed on. Patch test if prone to fungal acne.
Lightweight, non-greasy formula with silica that absorbs oil rather than clogging pores. Unlikely to cause breakouts for most skin types.
No drying alcohols (ethanol, denatured alcohol). Uses gentle humectants like glycerin and butylene glycol instead.
Tested for skin irritation potential. However, those with extreme sensitivity should patch test, especially if sensitive to botanical extracts.
No animal-derived ingredients. Cruelty-free formulation suitable for vegan skincare routines.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSRice Bran Water 80%Proven
The star ingredient rich in vitamins B and E, minerals, and amino acids. Rice bran water has been used in Asian beauty traditions for centuries to brighten skin, improve texture, and provide gentle hydration without heaviness.
- Hydration: Contains natural humectants that attract and retain moisture in the skin.
- Brightening: Studies show rice extracts can inhibit tyrosinase, helping to reduce hyperpigmentation over time.
- Antioxidant: Ferulic acid and other antioxidants in rice bran help protect against environmental damage.
Silica Powder LayerProven
Mineral-based powder that creates the unique dual-layer formula. When shaken, silica disperses evenly to provide oil-absorbing and pore-blurring benefits.
- Sebum Absorption: Microscopically porous structure absorbs excess oil without stripping skin.
- Mattifying Effect: Creates a soft-focus, matte finish that reduces shine throughout the day.
- Non-Comedogenic: Does not clog pores and is safe for acne-prone skin.
Houttuynia Cordata Extract IncludedPromising
Known as Heartleaf or Fish Mint, this Korean botanical powerhouse is renowned for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. Increasingly popular in K-beauty for acne-prone and sensitive skin.
- Anti-inflammatory: Contains quercetin and other flavonoids that calm redness and irritation.
- Antibacterial: Traditional use suggests antibacterial properties that may help with acne.
- Soothing: Helps comfort stressed or reactive skin types.
Glycerin 4-7%Proven
One of the most effective and well-studied humectants in skincare. Draws moisture into the skin and helps maintain hydration levels throughout the day.
- Humectant: Attracts water from the environment and deeper skin layers to the surface.
- Barrier Support: Helps strengthen the skin's moisture barrier when used consistently.
- Well-Tolerated: Suitable for all skin types including sensitive skin.
Botanical Complex (MIDHA 8) BlendPromising
Patented blend of 8 botanical extracts: Ginkgo Biloba, Oat Seed, Evening Primrose, Prickly Pear, Noni, Kudzu Root, Pine Leaf, and Purslane. Each contributes antioxidant and soothing properties.
- Ginkgo Biloba: Powerful antioxidant that helps protect against free radical damage.
- Oat Seed Extract: Known for soothing sensitive and irritated skin.
- Purslane (Portulaca Oleracea): Rich in omega-3 fatty acids with anti-inflammatory benefits.
22 ingredients
Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Water (80%), Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Glycereth-26, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Extract (0.01%), Opuntia Humifusa Stem Extract, Morinda Citrifolia Extract, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract, Avena Sativa (Oat) Seed Extract, Akebia Quinata Extract, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Ulmus Davidiana Root Extract, Pueraria Lobata Root Extract, Pinus Palustris Leaf Extract, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Extract, Xanthium Strumarium Fruit Extract, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Water, Silica, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply immediately after cleansing on damp skin. Can be used morning and night. For extra oily days, apply with cotton pad to wipe away excess sebum.
How to use
HOW TO USEShake Well
Shake the bottle vigorously to mix the toner and powder layers together. You should see the milky mixture become uniform.
Dispense Product
Pour an adequate amount onto a cotton pad or directly into your palms. About 2-3 drops per application.
Apply to Face
Gently wipe or pat the toner across your face, avoiding the eye area. Focus on oily T-zone areas if using a cotton pad.
Continue Routine
Allow to absorb for 30 seconds, then follow with your essence, serum, and moisturizer. Use morning and night for best results.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin that gets shiny throughout the day
- You want to control excess sebum without drying out your skin
- You prefer lightweight, fast-absorbing hydration
- You want to minimize the appearance of enlarged pores
- You enjoy K-beauty products with clean, vegan formulas
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need pregnancy-safe products
- You want a mattifying toner that prepares skin for makeup
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry skin that needs rich, emollient hydration
- You have confirmed fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
- You dislike the natural rice scent some users mention
- You prefer completely fragrance-free products
- You want a toner with active anti-aging ingredients like retinol
- You need intense brightening with proven actives like Vitamin C
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe silica powder layer actively absorbs excess sebum while the lightweight formula hydrates without adding shine. Perfect match.
Balances oily T-zone while providing adequate hydration to drier cheeks. Use cotton pad to target oilier areas specifically.
Works well for maintaining balanced hydration. May feel slightly mattifying if you prefer a dewier finish.
May not provide enough hydration alone. Works better layered with a hydrating essence and rich moisturizer on top.
Hypoallergenic tested and alcohol-free. However, multiple botanical extracts mean patch testing is recommended for very reactive skin.
Non-comedogenic formula with soothing Houttuynia Cordata. Low comedogenic rating of 1/5, but watch for fungal acne concerns.
Results timeline
8+ WEEKSImmediate Mattifying Effect
Skin feels less oily immediately after application. The silica powder absorbs excess sebum and provides a smooth, semi-matte finish. Makeup applies more smoothly.
85% noticed reduced shineBalanced Hydration
Skin starts to feel more balanced throughout the day. Less midday shine and oiliness. Hydration levels stabilize as the rice bran water nourishes skin.
70% noticed improved oil controlRefined Pore Appearance
With consistent use, pores may appear less visible and skin texture improves. Some users report a subtle brightening effect from the rice extracts.
60% noticed smoother textureLong-Term Skin Balance
Continued use helps maintain sebum balance and overall skin clarity. Best results when used as part of a complete skincare routine targeting oily skin concerns.
55% reported clearer skinRatings by platform
313+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Effective sebum control without over-drying
- Innovative dual-layer formula is fun to use
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture
- High concentration of rice bran water (80%)
- Vegan and hypoallergenic certified
- Alcohol-free and paraben-free formula
- Not sticky or greasy after absorption
- Good for layering under makeup
- Generous 200ml size lasts a long time
Criticized
- Rice scent may bother fragrance-sensitive users
- Not hydrating enough for dry skin types
- Pore-minimizing effect subtle for some users
- Higher price than some competitor rice toners
- Requires shaking before each use
- Not fungal acne safe due to rice ingredients
- Some users report mild tingling sensation
- Results take time to become visible
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Also a dual-layer rice toner with sebum control powder. Contains ceramide NP and hyaluronic acid for extra hydration. Fungal acne safe. Slightly more hydrating finish.
Classic K-beauty rice toner with 77.78% rice extract and niacinamide. More hydrating, less sebum control. Single-layer milky texture. Better for dry-combo skin.
70% rice water with niacinamide and ceramides. Fungal acne safe formula. More focus on glow and hydration than sebum control. Fragrance-free.
4% niacinamide with rice bran extract. Fungal acne safe. More focus on brightening and pore-tightening. Lightweight milky texture without powder layer.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Use within one year of first opening the bottle for optimal efficacy.
Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight. Keep in a cool, dry place. No refrigeration required.
Plastic bottle with flip-top or press cap. Dual-layer formula naturally separates - shake before each use.
200ml exceeds TSA 100ml carry-on limit. Transfer to travel container or pack in checked luggage for flights.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this toner is safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula is free from retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and chemical sunscreens - all ingredients commonly advised against during pregnancy. The main ingredients are rice bran water, glycerin, and botanical extracts, which are considered safe. However, as with any skincare product, if you have concerns, consult with your healthcare provider.
This toner should be used with caution if you have fungal acne. Rice-based ingredients contain natural sugars and starches that can potentially feed Malassezia yeast, which causes fungal acne. While the formula is lightweight and non-comedogenic, those with confirmed Malassezia folliculitis may want to choose alternatives like Beauty of Joseon Rice Milk or ANUA Rice 70 Toner, which are formulated to be fungal acne safe.
Yes, this toner is generally compatible with most active ingredients. Since it contains no exfoliating acids or retinoids, you can safely layer it with your retinol, vitamin C serums, or AHA/BHA products. Apply the toner first after cleansing, let it absorb, then apply your actives. If using strong actives, you may want to use the toner morning and your actives at night to minimize any potential irritation from layering too many products.
This toner is ideal for oily and combination skin types. The dual-layer formula with silica powder is specifically designed to absorb excess sebum and control shine throughout the day. Those with normal skin can also use it, especially in humid weather or if prone to midday oiliness. Dry skin types may find it insufficient as a sole hydrating toner and should layer with additional hydrating products.
You should notice immediate mattifying effects after the first application - reduced shine and a smoother base for makeup. For oil control throughout the day, most users notice improvement within 1-2 weeks of consistent use. Visible improvements in pore appearance and overall skin texture typically take 4-8 weeks of twice-daily use. For brightening benefits from rice extracts, expect gradual improvement over 2-3 months.
Apply this toner as the first step after cleansing, on slightly damp skin. The routine order should be: Cleanser → MIDHA Rice Sebum Toner → Essence (optional) → Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM). For oily skin, you can apply with a cotton pad to gently wipe away residual impurities while toning. For lighter hydration needs, it can also replace an essence step.
No, this toner has a low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, meaning it's unlikely to clog pores. The formula is lightweight and water-based, with silica that actually helps absorb pore-clogging sebum. It's free from heavy oils and pore-clogging ingredients. The product is also certified hypoallergenic. However, individual reactions vary, so if you have very acne-prone skin, patch testing is always recommended.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for best results and to ensure the product remains effective and safe. The 200ml bottle typically lasts 3-4 months with twice-daily use. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Remember to shake before each use as the dual-layer formula naturally separates when sitting.
Verdict: MIDHA Rice Sebum Toner is an excellent choice for those with oily and combination skin seeking effective sebum control without sacrificing hydration. The innovative dual-layer formula with 80% rice bran water and silica powder delivers on its promise of mattifying while nourishing. The vegan, alcohol-free formulation is gentle enough for daily use and safe during pregnancy. While not suitable for those with fungal acne concerns, and perhaps not hydrating enough for very dry skin, it excels at what it's designed to do - balance oily skin and refine pore appearance. A solid K-beauty option for oily skin types looking for a clean, effective toner.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Oryza Sativa Bran Water
Masking, Perfuming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Glyceryl Stearate
Emollient, Emulsifying
|
|