Rice water is simply the starchy liquid. It remains after cooking or soaking rice. Many believe it makes hair smooth and shiny. It may also help hair grow faster. Rice grains contain a high percentage of starch. This ranges from 80% to 90%.
Rice water contains essential vitamins and minerals. These nutrients include amino acids and B vitamins. You also find vitamin E, minerals, and antioxidants. All these contribute to its potential benefits.
HISTORICAL ROOTS OF RICE WATER FOR HAIR
Researchers have studied an interesting tradition. The Yao women of Huangluo, China, are famous. They boast hair averaging six feet long. Their hair also retains its color longer. They typically avoid gray hair until their eighties.
The Yao women credit their hair’s health to a unique practice. They bathe their hair in fermented rice water. This mixture is prepared in a clay pot. It combines rice, water, and various herbs. This ancient tradition is gaining new attention.
In recent years, beauty websites embraced this tradition. Product developers also recognized its potential. Now, the rice water trend is spreading globally. People are discovering this natural hair remedy.
POTENTIAL BENEFITS OF RICE WATER FOR HAIR
Advocates firmly believe in rice water’s benefits. They claim it effectively detangles hair. It makes hair much smoother. It significantly increases hair’s natural shine. Many report it makes hair stronger. It also helps hair grow notably long.
WHAT RESEARCH SAYS ABOUT RICE WATER
The popularity of rice water is increasing rapidly. Growing anecdotal evidence supports its benefits. An older paper from 2010 provides some insights. It suggests a potential scientific basis exists. The authors noted rice water might reduce surface friction. It could also increase hair elasticity. However, this study relied on historical examples. It drew some unsupported conclusions.
A 2022 article discussed “hairfluencer” social media trends. Dermatologists expressed some concerns. They worry heavy starches might damage hair. Yet, other research offers promise. A 2022 systematic review analyzed ten studies. It concluded that products with rice bran are promising. They show potential for hair growth. Applying rice bran to skin may increase growth factors. It might also boost signals for cell growth. This occurs during the active hair growth phase. Rice bran could also slow enzymes. These enzymes cause hair to stop growing. They can make hair enter a resting phase.
This review did not specifically examine rice water use on hair. However, a scientific basis for claims may exist. More research is essential to confirm these benefits.
HOW TO PREPARE RICE WATER AT HOME
You can make rice water in several simple ways. The soaking method is very quick.
To use this method, take half a cup of uncooked rice. Rinse it thoroughly under running water. Place the rice in a bowl. Add two to three cups of water. Let it soak for about thirty minutes. Then, strain the rice water into a clean bowl.
Some advocates prefer fermented rice water. They claim it offers more benefits than plain rice water. A 2021 review supports this. Fermenting substances increases their antioxidant levels. Antioxidants combat hair and skin cell damage. This makes them popular in beauty products.
To ferment rice water, follow the soaking steps. After straining, let it stand at room temperature. Leave it for up to two days. This allows fermentation to occur. Strain the rice water into a clean bowl before using.
Boiling is another effective method. Cover half a cup of rice. Use double the water typically for cooking. Cook the rice in boiling water. Then, carefully strain it. Collect the rice water into a clean bowl.
USING RICE WATER FOR YOUR HAIR
Rice water can easily replace your conditioner. First, wash your hair with shampoo. Rinse thoroughly using tap water. Next, pour the rice water onto your hair. Gently massage it into your hair and scalp. Leave it on for up to twenty minutes. Finally, rinse your hair thoroughly. Use warm tap water for rinsing.
BEYOND HAIR: SKIN BENEFITS OF RICE PRODUCTS
Besides its hair benefits, rice water may help skin. A 2018 study explored this. Researchers made a gel with 96% rice water. They also made a placebo gel. Participants applied the rice water gel. After 28 days, skin hydration increased by 10%. This was compared to the placebo. This suggests potential skin advantages.
