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Rice Water for Hair: Benefits, Recipes & Hair Growth Tips
People in China and Japan swear by rice water to strengthen their hair and prevent greying. This was once a secret, but now thanks to social media, the benefits of rice water for hair are all over the internet. Beauty influencers, hairstylists, hair specialists and product developers across the globe are calling rice water the elixir for hair. Let us analyse this trend and understand what qualities of rice water for hair made it rise to this level of prominence.
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What Is Rice Water? & What Does It Do For Hair?
Rice water is simply the water that is left behind after boiling the rice or soaking it for some time. This basic blend is packed with amino acids, vitamin B, Vitamin E, magnesium, zinc, and several other trace elements. Such nutrients increase the elasticity of the hair and lower frictional loss while improving the overall health of the hair strands. [1] Enriched with amino acids such as cysteine and methionine, rice water imparts strength to the hair fibres. It nourishes the hair shaft and the roots while minimising breakage. If you are prone to dry, brittle and thin hair, rice water might help you ace your hair game. Fermented rice water is especially helpful in replenishing the necessary proteins and keratin in hair, thus complementing hair growth. [2] Let us discuss the various methods of extracting rice water for hair.
Different Methods Of Using Rice Water On Hair
There are multiple ways to prepare rice water for hair care. Each method offers a unique set of benefits.
1. Boiling Method:
The boiling method is a simple way to prepare rice water for hair. Here’s how you can make it:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of uncooked rice
- 2 cups of water
Preparation:
- Rinse the rice to remove impurities.
- Add it to a pot and cover it with water.
- Boil until the water turns cloudy.
- Strain.
This method releases the nutrients in water, making it fit for a faster application.
2. Soaking Method:
This is the most traditional way of making rice water for hair. It is best if you use organic rice.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of uncooked rice
- 2 cups of water
Preparation:
- Rinse the rice to clean it.
- Place the rice in a bowl and add water.
- Swirl the rice around a few times to help release the micronutrients into the water
- Let it soak for at least 30 minutes.
- Strain and store it in a clean container.
3. Distillation Method:
The distillation method captures the purest essence of rice water through vaporisation and condensation. This method yields a purified version of rice water that is less starchy.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of uncooked rice
- 2 cups of water
Preparation:
- Boil the rice in water, letting the steam rise.
- Store the steam in a separate container.
- Let it condense.
4. Fermentation Method:
Fermentation enhances the nutrient content of rice water, making it great for hair growth and scalp health. The pH of rice is higher than that of hair. Fermented rice water for hair helps lower the pH level of rice, which leads to wholesome protection of the hair follicles. [3] A nourishing by-product of the fermentation process is Pitera. Pitera has amino acids, organic acids, and minerals that help repair damaged hair and renew hair texture. [4]
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of uncooked rice
- 2 cups of water
Preparation:
- Rinse the rice and soak it in water for around 24 hours.
- When fermentation starts, strain.
- Store the fermented rice water in the refrigerator.
Must Read: Rice Water For Skin & Their Benefits
Nutrients Present In Rice Water And Their Effects On Hair:
Here is a list of the nutrients that collectively make rice water the elixir for hair health.
| Nutrient | Effects on Hair |
| Inositol | Helps repair and protect hair; enhances elasticity, assists hair growth, and reduces surface friction. [5] |
| Amino Acids | Strengthen hair strands, improving hair structure and promoting growth. [6] |
| Vitamins B, C, E | Nourish the hair follicles, promoting a healthier scalp and faster hair growth. [7] |
| Minerals | Strengthen hair roots and protect against breakage and thinning. |
| Antioxidants | Fight free radicals, reducing hair damage and preventing premature greying. [8] |
Benefits Of Rice Water For Hair Growth:
There are several benefits to using rice water for hair growth. Let’s break down some key benefits:
1. Strengthens Hair Roots:
The multiple proteins and amino acids that are present in the rice water help in tightening the hair follicles. This prevents the absorption of water and helps lower the chances of hair fall.
2. Improves Hair Elasticity:
Rice water is equipped with a unique carbohydrate called inositol. Inositol fortifies hair elasticity, reduces surface tension and thus prevents breakage.
3. Adds Shine and Smoothness:
Consistent use of rice water nourishes the hair from the roots, resulting in smoother and shinier hair. The amino acids and vitamins help smooth hair and make it more manageable.
4. Fights Hair damage:
Rice water is enriched with antioxidants such as inositol, ferulic acid, oryzanol, Vitamin E and Vitamin B. These collectively combat free radicals, thus preventing hair damage and protecting the hair against environmental stressors.
Rice Water Hair Mask: Recipes
The best way to include rice water in your hair care routine is to add this powerful ingredient to your hair mask. Here are some easy-to-make hair mask recipes using rice water:
Basic Rice Water Hair Mask:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of rice water
- 1 tablespoon of coconut oil
Preparation:
- Mix the rice water with coconut oil and apply it to your hair. Leave it on for 20 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
Rice Water and Aloe Vera Mask:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of rice water
- 2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel
Preparation:
- Mix aloe vera with rice water and apply it to your hair and scalp. Aloe vera helps soothe the scalp and moisturises hair, while rice water provides strength.
Rice Water and Yogurt Hair Mask:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of rice water
- 2 tablespoons of yogurt
Preparation:
- Mix yoghurt with rice water and apply it to damp hair. Yoghurt is rich in proteins that offer deep conditioning and hydration to your hair
Application Tips:
The following are some tips when applying rice water to your hair.
-
Detangle First:
Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle the hair, as tangles will hinder the even distribution of the mask.
-
Apply With Your Hands:
Use your hands to evenly spread the mask. Apply generously on the scalp and through the length of the hair.
-
Comb Through For Even Distribution:
Once you apply the mask, comb your hair again to ensure the even distribution of the mask.
-
Wrap For Deeper Nourishment:
After applying the rice water, wrap your head with a warm towel or a shower cap. This opens the hair cuticles and facilitates the proper absorption of nutrients.
How Often Should You Use Rice Water For Hair?
Though rice water is loaded with nutrients that can improve hair health, it shouldn’t be used excessively. Use rice water for hair growth once or twice a week. Excessive use may lead to protein buildup causing the hair to become dry and fragile.
Side Effects Of Using Rice Water On Hair
Although rice water is considered safe for all types of hair, you might experience some side effects. If the side effects persist after the first few applications, consult a specialist.
- Owing to the high protein content in rice water, protein buildup might cause the hair to become damaged, brittle and dry.
- Some people might face mild allergies after using rice water. It is always advised to do a patch test first before proper application.
- Fermented rice water has a distinctly pungent smell. Add a few drops of your favourite essential oil to rice water to neutralize the smell.
- The fermented starchy rice water is acidic. It is supposed to balance the hair’s pH but if the rice water is too acidic then it might end up damaging your hair roots.
Takeaway
Rice water’s origins trace back to ancient China and Japan. There is a rich history and enough scientific evidence to believe that rice water can unlock the doors to healthy lustrous hair. Including rice water in your hair care routine is simple and cost-effective. Consist use can lead to healthy, radiant, and stronger hair because rice water is a powerhouse of nutrients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, rice water is beneficial for hair as it is enriched with proteins, amino acids, antioxidants, vitamin E and a range of other nutrients.
Take some fermented rice water and mix it with equal amounts of water. Apply it to your hair, leave it on for about 20–30 minutes, then wash it off.
Fermented rice water has a distinctly pungent smell. To neutralise the smell, add a few drops of any essential oil to the rice water.
Start by using rice water once a week. If you notice even a mild change in your hair’s strength or texture, continue usage for better results.
You can use rice water once or twice a week. Do not overuse it as it might lead to side effects.
It is best to use organic rice for preparing rice water.
No, leaving rice water on your hair for too long might make your hair dry and prone to breakage.
Yes, you can cook the rice that is left behind after extracting rice water.
Rice water helps repair damaged hair by improving its strength and elasticity while minimizing breakage.
There are 4 ways to make rice water – boiling, soaking, distillation, and fermentation.
If you suffer from extremely dry hair, try to limit the use of rice water.
No, it is advised not to use rice water on hair more than once or twice a week.
After shampooing, pour rice water on the hair, gently massage for several minutes, then wait for 20 minutes before rinsing.
