What is sake lees and what are its skincare benefits
Posted by Kahron Torrence on April 28th, 2023
Sake lees or sake kasu is a byproduct from the Japanese sake making process. Different from the rice wine itself, sake lees is the leftover material that is packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins but usually gets less attention than its liquid counterpart.
Skincare benefits of sake lees
Brightening
The Vitamin E, arbutin, and ferulic acid content found in sake kasu together work to combat hyperpigmentation and prevent the formation of age spots, sun spots, and skin inflammation, which makes sake lees one of the popular ingredients for Japanese brightening products.
Softening and soothing
Sake lees is the friend of sensitive skin, and it is known for its ability to help soothe skin conditions like eczema and acne.
Rejuvenating
Sake lees is well-known for its powerful anti-aging benefits. Its high Vitamin B content is said to help accelerate skin cell turnover, rejuvenating the skin and slowing down premature aging. Antioxidant ferulic acid also helps to protect the skin from the damaging effects of free radicals, minimize the formation of fine lines and enhance the skin’s firmness.
Moisturizing
Much like hyaluronic acid, the sugar compounds found in fermented rice act as emollients that increase skin cell water retention for plump and elastic skin. Linoleic acid also helps to fortify the skin barrier so that it can hold on to moisture and defend the skin from outside irritants.
Where can I find sake lees skincare products?
Despite the myriad known beauty and health benefits of sake lees and attempts to include it in Japanese cuisine, every year a big percentage of sake lees is tossed out as industrial waste and never gets repurposed. Simply by incorporating sake lees into your beauty routine, you are playing a part in helping minimize food waste. Japanese beauty brand EDOBIO is taking great strides to make the most of this powerful ingredient. The brand has developed a special form of sake lees, which promotes higher performing hydration, brightening, and texture balancing properties of the ingredient.
