In Korea’s long royal history, the palace women and queens were admired not only for their elegance but also for their radiant, healthy skin.
Before the days of high-tech cosmetics, these women relied on nature—pure, effective, and accessible. Among the most treasured ingredients were rice bran and mung beans, which continue to inspire modern K-beauty.
Let’s explore the natural skincare rituals of Korean court ladies, and the science-backed benefits of rice bran and mung beans for glowing skin.
👑 Royal Beauty Rituals in the Joseon Dynasty
Korean royal court women, or gungnyeo (궁녀), believed that true beauty stemmed from healthy skin. Their skincare routines were rooted in nature and simplicity, using fresh, natural ingredients that were readily available in their surroundings.
1. Rice Water Cleansing
Used as a toner and cleanser, rice water was one of the most beloved beauty secrets. After rinsing rice, the milky water was collected and used to wash the face. Rich in vitamins B and E, rice water helped brighten the complexion, soothe inflammation, and retain moisture.
2. Mung Bean Facial Mask
Ground mung beans were mixed with water or honey to create a soft, exfoliating facial paste. This was used to remove impurities, reduce acne, and leave the skin clean and refreshed.
3. Honey Moisture Pack
Honey, a natural humectant, was often combined with ingredients like ginseng powder or seaweed to create masks that locked in moisture, nourished the skin, and promoted elasticity.
4. Egg White for Pore Care
Whipped egg white masks helped tighten pores, control excess sebum, and give the skin a firmer, smoother texture—perfect for a refined royal look.
🌾 Why Rice Bran is a Skincare Superfood
Rice bran (the outer layer removed during milling) is a powerhouse ingredient packed with:
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Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide) – Brightens dull skin, reduces dark spots and hyperpigmentation
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Vitamin E – Fights free radicals, supports skin elasticity
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Ferulic Acid – A potent antioxidant that reduces signs of aging
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Gamma-Oryzanol – Helps protect the skin barrier and soothe sensitivity
✅ Skin Benefits of Rice Bran:
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Brightening: Evens skin tone, fades spots
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Moisturizing: Locks in hydration and prevents dryness
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Anti-aging: Protects against UV damage and environmental stress
💡 How to Use:
Mix rice bran powder with water or milk to make a gentle scrub or mask.
Apply 1–2 times a week to exfoliate dead skin cells and reveal a brighter complexion.
🌱 Why Mung Beans Are Loved in Korean Skincare
Mung beans, known as “nokdu (녹두)” in Korean, are cooling, detoxifying legumes that have been used in traditional medicine and skincare for centuries.
They contain:
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Vitamins A & C – Essential for cell renewal and antioxidant protection
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Saponins – Natural compounds with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties
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Protein & Minerals – Help strengthen skin’s structure
✅ Skin Benefits of Mung Beans:
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Deep cleansing: Absorbs sebum and toxins from pores
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Soothing: Calms redness and irritation
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Gentle exfoliation: Removes dead skin without abrasion
💡 How to Use:
Blend mung bean powder with honey or yogurt to make a soft, creamy face pack.
Leave on for 10–15 minutes and rinse off with lukewarm water.
🧖♀️ Applying Traditional Beauty to Modern Skincare
While today’s cosmetics are backed by cutting-edge science, traditional ingredients like rice bran and mung beans remain favorites for their safety, gentleness, and visible results.
Modern Tips for Natural Skincare:
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Rice Bran Cleanser: Use powder-form cleansers or facial soaps containing rice bran to gently purify the skin.
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DIY Mung Bean Mask: Perfect for oily or acne-prone skin, this natural mask helps balance and clear the skin.
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Honey Blending: Combine rice bran or mung bean powder with raw honey for an easy at-home brightening and hydrating treatment.
These methods are eco-friendly, affordable, and kind to your skin—just like they were centuries ago.
📌 Final Thoughts
From the palaces of the Joseon Dynasty to modern skincare routines, natural ingredients like rice bran and mung beans continue to stand the test of time. Their benefits are not just tradition—they’re supported by both science and results.
If you’re looking to embrace a more holistic and heritage-inspired skincare routine, consider going back to basics with Korea’s most trusted natural beauty secrets.
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