What it is
This is a plant oil obtained from the germ of rice grains, rich in unsaturated fatty acids and naturally occurring minor lipophilic constituents. It serves as an emollient that softens skin and improves the spreadability and feel of an emulsion. It is commonly found in Japanese sunscreens that emphasize rice-derived ingredients.
Safety & warnings
Rice germ oil is generally well tolerated and is not a recognized fragrance allergen. As a plant lipid it may feel rich on very oily or acne-prone skin, so such users may prefer to patch test, though it is used at modest levels in most formulas.
Origin & sourcing
Natural, plant-derived: oil expressed from the germ portion of rice (Oryza sativa).
Questions everyone asks
What is the difference between rice germ oil and rice bran oil?
Rice germ oil is pressed specifically from the germ of the grain, while rice bran oil comes from the bran layer; both are emollient plant oils.
What does it do in sunscreen?
It works as an emollient that conditions skin and helps the product spread smoothly.