CLAY+essence
hydrating toner,  I'm From

I’m From Rice Toner

the claim

The I’m From Rice Toner is made with 77.78% Rice Extract which is said to enhance skin whitening and elasticity. The toner forms a protective barrier over the skin to prevent water loss, eliminate dead skin cells and provide luster and moisturization to rebalance dry and tired skin.
 
I'm From Rice Toner
 

the science

Rich in amino acids, vitamin E and ferulic acid, Rice Extract has anti-inflammatory and calming effects, also providing short and long term skin hydration. It’s great for sensitive and acne prone skin types. Included at almost 78% concentration, it’s the hero ingredient of the toner. Three synthetic ingredients follow in concentration. Methylpropanediol (together with Butylene Glycol) improves the absorption of actives while also hydrating and enhancing skin texture. Triethylhexanoin which comprises glycerin and a triglyceride fatty acid (2-ethylhexanoic acid) is an occlusive agent and skin-conditioning emollient. C6-14 Olefin acts as a conditioning and emollient agent and helps to control product viscosity.
 
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is a superstar ingredient that acts as a restorative agent. It helps to brighten skin by inhibiting melanin production and is also an effective treatment against hyperpigmentation. Niacinamide can improve the appearance of enlarged pores, uneven skin tone, fine lines and dullness plus strengthen the skin surface.
 
I'm From Rice Toner
Pentylene Glycol is a humectant that has an ability to attract moisture to the skin. It also contains antimicrobial properties so contributes preservative function to the toner.
 
It wouldn’t be Korean without exotic botanical extracts. These all boost the antioxidant strength of the toner but also provide addition skin benefits. The first is Purslane Extract which contains omega-3 fatty acids, making it effective at stimulating cell regeneration. High levels of Vitamins E, C and beta carotene also help it to brighten skin tone and reduce sun induced damage.
 
Rice Bran Extract is an oil that contains fatty acids making it deeply moisturising. Vitamins E and B help it to firm and tighten the skin. Similarly, Amaranth contains lipids similar to those of the skin that helps it to regenerate and strengthen the skin barrier. Furthermore, it’s a strong antioxidant due to a high content of tocopherols. Lightweight and easily absorbed, both are considered excellent ingredient for oily, dry and mature skin types.
 
Other ingredients include Hydrogenated Lecithin which soothes and moisturises, Polyglyceryl-10-Myristate to smooth and soften and Adenosine which has proven an effective treatment against lines and wrinkles due to its ability to energize the skin’s surface.
 

the ingredients

Rice Extract, Methylpropanediol, Triethylhexanoin, Hydrogenated Poly (C6-14 Olefin), Niacinamide, Pentylene Glycol, Common Purslane Extract, Rice Bran Extract, Japanese Elm Bark Extract, Amaranthus Caudatus Seed Extract, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Distilled Water, Polyglyceryl-10-Myristate, Butylene Glycol, Adenosine, Cellulose Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol
 
I'm From Rice Toner Ingredients
 

the packaging

The rice toner comes in a glass cylindrical bottle with a screw top plastic lid and dropper opening, encased in a cardboard box. When new, there is a protective cap over the opening to keep it secure.
 
I'm From Rice Toner Sealed Opening
 

the analysis

Assessments returned by both the CosDNA and EWG resources are highly favourable.
 
I'm From Rice Toner CosDNA Analysis
 

the application

Shake well to mix the water and emulsion layers. After cleansing, dispense on a cotton pad and wipe off or press onto dry areas.
 
I'm From Rice Toner Directions
 

the scent

This I’m From Rice Toner has a natural scent.
 

the cost

A 150ml bottle of the I’m From Rice Toner sells for USD$28.00.
 

the availability

I’m From products are available from Korean skincare boutiques such as Wishtrend.
 

the expiry

The toner must be used within 12 months of opening and has a three year shelf life.
 
I'm From Rice Toner ExpiryI'm From Rice Toner Shelf Life
 

the performance

I’m From is one of my favourite brands and this rice toner reinforces that with a performance to impress! Firstly, the presentation. Typical of the brand, it comes in a heavy glass bottle that immediately expresses quality. It’s minimalist packaging is attractive and the dispensing method (dropper opening) is ideal to maintain hygiene. The seal when new keeps it secure and fresh.
 
I'm From Rice Toner Presentation
The solution separates when idle. Around 78% Yeoju Rice water settles to the bottom of the bottle, the remaining 22% rising to the top lead by lipid rich Amaranth and Rice Bran extracts. A simple shake of the bottle ensures parts come together for even application. Although the instructions suggest applying it with a cotton pad, I like to pour a generous splash (as shown below) into my palms and then pat it into the skin.
 
The tonic is milky in colour and retains a very watery and runny texture. It’s appearance is slightly more opaque than water that’s been used to wash rice. It has no noticeable scent and there is also no added fragrance which is refreshing. The sensation on the skin is very mild. There is no cooling or calming effect, rather, it feels like room temperature water on the skin. It absorbs and dries down quickly with no residue. There is no tackiness or stickiness at any point which makes it very comfortable. The botanical extracts give it a slightly “oily” slip and help the skin to prevent moisture loss. However, there is absolutely no sense of greasiness, oiliness or any occlusive sensation. The toner seems to just disappear into the skin effortlessly. I immediately notice a boost in hydration, my skin absorbing it instantly for a blatant plumping effect. I find two layers is more than enough to quench my skin.
 
This product is more of a multi-tasker than just a toner. It’s sufficiently watery that it may be used as a first treatment essence but provides a concentrated level of hydration such that it could potentially replace serum. I can happily use it after cleansing and finish my routine with cream and achieve a satisfying level of hydration. However, I enjoy serum too much to skip that step. I use it as the first step after cleansing both morning and night. In 4 weeks, I have been quite heavy handed in my application of two layers per routine (day and night), and have used up over a third of the product. So, with liberal use it will last me around 3 months. Those that require only one layer might see it last twice that duration. Thus, the price of the 150ml bottle (USD$28) is justified and affordable, equating to around USD$10 a month for me, and perhaps less than USD$5 for those using it less frequently or in fewer, less concentrated layers.
 
I'm From Rice Toner Texture
After a month of regular use, I can honestly conclude that this is a wonderful hydrating toner. I love the feeling on the skin in application and the result afterwards is instant plumping and long lasting hydration. This alone does wonders for the moisture barrier and with the inclusion of Adenosine, helps with ageing concerns. I didn’t actually notice improvement in fine lines but I don’t expect any such product to have that effect, and especially not after just 4 weeks. Regarding brightening, personally, I didn’t observe a great deal although I do use other products with brightening effects so it’s difficult to differentiate which provides what! However, I have heard/read many reviews that confirm such a benefit.
 
I'm From Rice Toner
 

the conclusion

After introducing this toner into my routine I can see why it gets so much love in the K-beauty arena. It’s gentle, enjoyable on the skin and delivers noticeable, instant, long lasting results. I will definitely have this one back in my routine again and again.
 

the summary

Pros Cons
Quality formula with ideal CosDNA and EWG credentials Only available online for Australians
Easy application with quick absorption Didn’t notice significant brightening
Leaves skin hydrated with instant plumping
Skin looks fresh and youthful
Cruelty free
Suitable for all skin types

 
I'm From Rice Toner
 

the references

Wishtrend website
Niacinamide Paula’s Choice Skincare Dictionary
Niacinamide Benefits for Skin Jared Paventi
What are the Best Products with Niacinamide? Nicki Zevola Benvenuti
Rice Extract May Be Just What Your Beauty Routine Is Missing Sharon Feiereisen
Methylpropanediol Paula’s Choice Skincare Ingredient Dictionary
Triethylhexanoin Paula’s Choice Skincare Ingredient Dictionary
Pentylene Glycol The Derm Review
Do You Know The Skincare Benefits of Purslane? The Skincare PharmD
Rice Bran Oil for Skin, the Deeply Hydrating, Anti-Aging Ingredient Annemarie Skin Care

 


 

the disclaimer

Please read in context with my disclaimer.
 
This product was provided to me free of charge by Wishtrend. This post only includes my honest opinion and experience of this product and is in no way influenced by Wishtrend, I’m From, product suppliers, representatives or any other third party.
 


 

2 Comments

  • Mia

    If you enjoyed the I’m From Rice Toner, I bet you’ll love the Thank You Farmer Rice Pure Essential Toner. IMO the Thank You Farmer is more hydrating, has ceramides and is less expensive.
    Thanks for the review!

    • denise

      Thanks for the tip Mia. I’ve used the TYF rice toner also (just haven’t had the time to post a review on the blog). However, you’ll find a review on my instagram page. I agree it’s a lot richer than the I’m From version and suits me better in the winter or when my skin is feeling tight or dry. I still prefer the I’m From one though, as I have a preference for lightweight or slippery textures when it comes to this routine step.

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