Discover the power of Rice water for Hair growth, shine, and more. With this guide, learn how to make this simple, natural hair treatment at home and why it needs to be part of your hair care routine.

There’s nothing I love more than keeping skincare and beauty simple. And nothing gets more simple than rice. It’s cheap, easy to source, and I could bet money you have some in your pantry right now. But did you know rice water has been used for centuries to strengthen hair, encourage growth and add shine?

The best part is that you don’t need any fancy equipment or a lengthy shopping list to make this natural hair treatment. It’s simply rice and water. Leave it for a few hours to ferment (the fermentation process is key), then store it in the fridge ready for your next hair wash day. In a world filled with commercial hair products loaded with chemicals and toxins, it’s refreshing to discover an alternative made with natural ingredients like plain rice water that can do wonders for your locks.

As well as sharing how to make my fermented rice hair treatment, I’ll share why incorporating it into your hair care routine is a game-changer worth exploring. If you crave strong, beautiful hair then this is the simple and natural solution for you.

History of Rice Water for Hair

Using rice water on hair is actually an ancient practice that dates back centuries. It has been passed down through generations in various Asian cultures but is believed to have started during the Heian period in Japan (794 to 1185 CE).

During this time, female servants of the Imperial court known as a Nyobo (“court ladies”) had long, lustrous hair that reached the floor. Their secret to maintaining such beautiful hair? Rinsing it with fermented rice water.

This tradition gradually spread beyond to other parts of Asia, including China, Korea, and Southeast Asia. It was embraced as a natural remedy for promoting hair growth, enhancing shine, and strengthening the hair.

Fast forward to today, the rice water trend has gained attention worldwide. With the rise of natural and traditional beauty remedies, people have rediscovered the benefits of rice water and incorporated it into their hair care routines. Now it’s your turn to reap the rewards of this ancient beauty secret.

Benefits of Rice Water for Hair

As mentioned, rice water has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for promoting hair growth, enhancing shine, reducing split ends, and strengthening hair strands. Still not sold? Here are the benefits of rice water you need to know:

Hair Growth

Rice water contains vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that nourish the hair follicles and promote healthy hair growth. In a study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science, researchers found that inositol (found in rice water) can penetrate and strengthen hair strands, potentially encouraging hair growth.

Inositol is a naturally occurring compound known for its beneficial effects on hair. It is a carbohydrate that belongs to the vitamin B family. Inositol has soothing properties that can also benefit the scalp. It helps to alleviate dryness, itchiness, and inflammation, promoting a healthier scalp for optimal hair growth.

In addition to rice water, I also recommend beef liver supplements for hair growth. As they are also rich in B vitamins and biotin they are particularly powerful in promoting strong, healthy hair.

Shine

Rice water can help improve the shine and luster of hair. It forms a protective coating around the hair shaft and reduces frizz resulting in a shinier appearance and healthier hair. Inositol also has the ability to attract and retain moisture, helping to hydrate the hair. It creates a protective barrier on the hair strands, preventing moisture loss and combating dryness, friction, and brittleness.

The starch in rice water also acts as a natural conditioner, making the hair appear smoother and more manageable. Talking of manageable hair, I also swear by my natural detangler spray. Like rice water, it helps to add shine, tame frizz and keep your strands smooth and hydrated.

For an added shine boost, I also recommend adding pumpkin seed oil to your hair care routine. Pumpkin seed oil coats hair in a light-reflecting layer which will give it a beautiful shine.

Prevent Split Ends

Rice water’s nourishing properties can help reduce the occurrence of split ends. It moisturizes the hair, preventing dryness and brittleness that often contribute to split ends.

Additionally, inositol has been found to repair damaged hair by filling in gaps and cuticle damage. It helps to smooth the hair shaft, making it appear smoother, shinier, and less prone to split ends.

After rinsing our the rice water (while your hair is still wet) I also recommend adding a little of my DIY argan oil hair serum for added protection against split ends.

Boost Hair Strength

The proteins and amino acids in rice water can help strengthen the hair, making it less prone to breakage and damage. It also believed that inositol helps strengthen the hair strands by penetrating the hair shaft and working its magic from within. This can lead to reduced breakage, increased resilience, and overall healthier-looking hair.

Alongside rice water, I recommend using collagen powder. If you’re struggling with thinning hair, one of the many benefits of collagen powder is boosting hair strength. Studies have found a collagen supplement can help improve hair volume, thickness and scalp coverage.

Rice Water for Curly Hair

Whether you follow the curly girl method or are simply trying to embrace your natural curls, I want to focus a little on the benefits of rice water for curly hair in particular. If you’re a curly gal who struggles with sourcing frizz fighting products and complex hair care routines, you need to incorporate rice water as part of your routine asap. Here’s why:

• Nourish Curls: One of the main benefits of rice water for curly is that it’s packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can nourish and strengthen your curly strands. Rice water also contains ferulic acid. This helps to prevent breakage, offering a powerful yet natural treatment for thirsty, curly hair.
• More defined curls: As well as its nourishing qualities, rice water is also packed with vitamins B and E. These vitamins are another huge benefit of rice water for curly hair as it helps to enhance your natural curl pattern. This will make your curls look more defined with plenty of volume.
• Improve Elasticity: Due to the helix shape of curly hair, this makes it more susceptible to breakages. This is because the strands have bends and curves that create weak points, where breakage is easier in comparison to other hair types. After using rice water on curly hair you’ll notice an improved elasticity for stronger, more resilient curls. They’ll hold shape better without falling flat or going frizzy and bounce back after being stretched or pulled.
• Reduce Frizz: The structure of curly hair also makes it more prone to frizz. One of the biggest benefits of rice water for curly hair is that it will work to reduce your frizz issues by smoothing the hair cuticle and retaining moisture.

How to Make Rice Water for Hair

Ingredients

• 1 cup uncooked rice
• 1 cup filtered water

Directions:

1. Start by rinsing and straining your rice. This will remove any impurities before creating your rice water hair treatment.
2. Once strained, mix the rice in a bowl with 1 cup of water. Stir until the water becomes cloudy.
3. Strain for a second time, but this time keep the starchy water. The rice can still be used for cooking (just do that separately). 
4. Pour the rice water into an airtight container or a glass jar with a tight lid. A Mason jar or glass jar is ideal. Make sure it is clean and sterilized to maintain the freshness of the rice water.
5. Leave the rice water to sit for 12-24 hours at room temperature. This is essential to let the rice water ferment and maximize the vitamins and minerals, however do not let it sit for longer than 24 hours. Swirl or stir the rice occasionally to enhance the extraction process.
6. Store your rice water in the fridge until you’re ready to use.
7. Fill a small container, like a travel-sized shampoo bottle or a small jar, with rice water for application. Keep the rest in your fridge.

How to Apply Rice Water Hair Treatment

1. Start with clean, shampooed hair. I usually skip conditioner before applying the rice water, as it acts as a natural conditioner itself.
2. To apply the rice water, pour it over your scalp and hair. Make sure to saturate the strands from root to tip. Then, gently massage your scalp to stimulate blood circulation and promote absorption.
3. Allow the rice water rinse to sit on your hair for 10-15 minutes. This allows the nutrients to penetrate the hair strands.
4. After the recommended time, rinse your hair with lukewarm water until the rice water is completely washed out. You can follow up with a mild conditioner if desired. Proceed with your regular hair styling routine. I prefer to let my hair air dry but you can also use a blow dryer.

Some people prefer to spray rice water on their hair as a leave-in conditioner without rinsing. While others (including me) prefer to rinse it out. You can also use it as a hair mask by mixing it with aloe vera and a few drops of your favorite essential oil. This is particularly great if your hair is struggling with sun, sea and chlorine from vacation. Experiment with these methods to determine which works best for your hair type.

How to Store Rice Water for Hair

Once you have made your fermented rice water, proper storage will help maintain the quality and effectiveness for your hair care routine. Here are my top storage tips for best results:

• Once your rice water has fermented, it’s important to store it in the refrigerator to preserve the rice water’s properties and prevent bacterial growth.

• It is recommended to use the rice water within one week for best results. Remember to check the rice water for any signs of spoilage, such as a foul odor or discoloration, before using it. If you notice any changes, discard it and make a fresh batch.

• Prior to use, let it come to room temperature. This is simply because – from experience – it is not pleasant pouring freezing cold rice water over your head in the shower.

• I then prefer to pour some into a smaller spray bottle or empty shampoo bottle for easy use in the shower. Alternatively, you may prefer to take the entire jar in with you if you have thick, long hair.

What type of rice is best to use? 

When making rice water for hair, it is generally recommended to use long grain white rice that is organic. This is because it contains the perfect amount of protein. Feel free to experiment with other types of rice as they will all offer different benefits. For example:

• Brown Rice: Brown rice is a great choice for making rice water due to its high nutrient content. It contains vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can nourish and strengthen the hair.

• Red Rice: Similar to brown rice, red rice is minimally processed. This means it retains its bran and germ, making it a nutritious option for rice water. It is also rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the hair from damage.

• Black Rice: Black rice (sometimes called forbidden rice) is another great alternative. It contains high levels of anthocyanins, which are antioxidants that can promote hair health as well as additional benefits to the scalp.

You’ll find these types of rice in most grocery stores. Regardless of the type you go for, remember to rinse the rice thoroughly before using it. This step is important to remove any impurities or residues.

How often should I use rice water on my hair?

It is recommended to use rice water on your hair 1-2 times a week for best results. However, you can adjust the frequency depending on your hair’s condition.

If you have dry or damaged hair, using a rice water hair treatment at least once a week can help boost hydration and nourishment. On the other hand, if your hair is relatively healthy and you’re using it purely to boost shine or curl definition, using it every other week should be sufficient.

How long does it take to see results of rice water on hair? 

The time it takes to see results from using rice water on your hair can vary from person to person. You may notice improvements in their hair’s texture, shine, and overall health after a few weeks of consistent use, while others may take longer.

Hair growth in particular, is a gradual process. It is influenced by various factors such as genetics, overall health, as well as your hair care routine. While rice water is believed to promote hair growth, it’s important to have realistic expectations. Significant hair growth typically takes several months or more to become noticeable. However, rice water benefits such as shine, strength, and curl definition may be noticeable sooner.

I find that when switching to any natural beauty product, consistency is key. It can take a while for our scalp and hair to get used to a new routine, so regular use over time will prove beneficial for overall hair health. Everyone’s hair is unique, so individual results may vary. Be consistent, gentle with your hair, and give it time to respond to the benefits of rice water.

Can rice water be used on all hair types?

Yes, rice water can generally be used on all hair types. As mentioned, rice water for curly hair is particularly great, but it is also suitable for straight or wavy hair.

If you are struggling with dry or damaged hair, rice water can provide hydration and nourishment, improving the overall health and appearance. The proteins and vitamins present can also promote growth which is ideal for those with thin hair that lacks volume.

On the other hand, if you have naturally oily hair or a sensitive scalp, you may need to adjust the frequency and duration of rice water use to prevent excess oiliness or potential scalp irritation.

As with any new hair care product or treatment, it’s a good idea to perform a patch test before applying rice water to your entire scalp and hair. This can help identify any potential sensitivities or reactions and allow you to make an informed decision about using rice water for your particular hair type.

Can I use rice water if I have dry scalp or dandruff? 

Yes, rice water can be used on a dry scalp or to help manage dandruff. The hydrating and nourishing properties of rice water can provide relief to a dry, itchy scalp and help improve its overall condition.

If you’re struggling with a dry scalp, I recommend you focus on applying the rice water to the scalp rather than the length of the hair. Massage the rice water into the scalp gently to stimulate blood circulation and promote the absorption of nutrients.

For dryness, I also recommend applying jojoba oil. There are so many benefits to jojoba oil for skin and hair, but it is particularly great at fighting dandruff. This is thanks to the antibacterial and anti-fungal properties which help to keep the scalp clean and calm.

Are there are side effects to using rice water for hair?

While rice water is generally considered safe and beneficial for hair, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects, such as:

• Dryness: Rice water can have a slightly drying effect on some hair types, particularly if used too frequently or left on for extended periods. If you notice your hair feeling dry or brittle, consider reducing the frequency of rice water use or diluting it with plain water.
• Protein Buildup: Rice water contains proteins that can potentially build up on your hair over time, leading to residue or a coated feeling. To prevent protein buildup, rinse thoroughly after application.
• Scalp Irritation: In rare cases, some individuals may experience scalp irritation or sensitivity to rice water. If you notice redness, itching, or any discomfort, discontinue use and consult a dermatologist.

Now you know the benefits of rice water for hair it’s time to say goodbye to chemical-laden products and hello to strong, beautiful hair. Armed with my fermented rice hair treatment your locks (and bank account!) will be delighted with the results.

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Did you know about the benefits of rice water for hair? Don’t forget to comment below to let me know how your experience has been. You can also FOLLOW ME on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest.

Sources:

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1468-2494.2010.00605_3.x
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321353