Black Rice

Black rice is a pigmented rice rich in anthocyanins and other phenolic compounds. Cosmetic extracts may use black rice grain, bran or fermented material, which creates substantial variation in the final mix of antioxidants and other bioactive compounds.

Cell studies show black-rice extract can reduce UV-induced oxidative stress and matrix-metalloproteinase expression, while fermented black rice has shown melanogenesis-related effects in laboratory models. These findings are promising for antioxidant and radiance-focused skincare but remain mostly preclinical rather than proof of a specific anti-aging effect in humans.