Rice Water Benefits for Hair

Rice water has long been used to strengthen and improve hair. It traces back to Japan's ancient Heian period when court ladies were noted for their long, gorgeous hair that hung down to the floor.

Rice water was the key to their success. Scientists and beauty enthusiasts alike have been intrigued by this hair treatment and have attempted to determine whether rice water can truly beautify and strengthen hair. Inositol, a component of rice water, has been shown in studies to penetrate damaged hair and restore it from the inside out. It even shields hair from further harm.

How to use make rice water:

You need:

1 cup rice

1 cup water

Steps:

1. Rinse and strain your rice to get rid of any dirt or contaminants that you don't want in your hair.
2. In a medium-sized mixing basin, combine the strained rice and the water. You should continue to mix until the water is somewhat murky.
3. Strain the rice again, but this time save the water. Cook the rice or save it for later!
4. Fill a plastic container halfway with rice water and seal it. Allow 12 to 24 hours for the rice water to cool to room temperature. This allows it to ferment, releasing all of the beneficial vitamins and minerals.
5. Keep the rice water refrigerated until ready to use.
6. Fill a tiny container with rice water for application, such as a travel-sized shampoo bottle or a small jar. Keep the rest in the refrigerator.

How to use rice water?

You won't have to adjust your washing routine to accommodate your rice water rinse; simply use it after shampooing and conditioning, whether once a day or once a week. When applying the rice water, concentrate on your scalp first and then work your way out. Allow it to stay for two to five minutes before rinsing. You'll undoubtedly notice how strong and thick your hair feels right away.

Benefits of rice water:

1. Reduces frizz

Rice water as a hair treatment is reported to have various advantages, including better elasticity, texture, and reduced friction and frizz. The presence of inositol, a carbohydrate, is mostly responsible for this.

2. Naturally cleanses the hair

It may not be as handy as using a store-bought shampoo to wash your hair, but it is free of chemicals and preservatives, and you don't even need to use a conditioner afterwards. It restores the pH balance of your scalp. Rice water maintains the natural oils in your hair and has a pH level that is close to that of the scalp! A few drops of your favourite essential oils can be added to rice water for added benefits, and this mixture can be used in place of standard shampoo.

3. Detangles hair

Rice water's silky texture, which is infused with vitamins, helps soothe and untangle your strands, making your hair more manageable and easier to brush without breaking.

4. Prevents greying

Rice water contains antioxidants that help prevent hair ageing and boost cell regeneration from the inside out. This also enhances its ability to combat dust and pollution-related environmental damage.

5. Makes hair smooth

Rice water is recognised for its amino acid characteristics, which can link with your hair strands and nourish them from the inside out.

6. Assists in hair growth

Rice water can provide your hair with growth minerals, resulting in thick, strong lengths that are envied.

7. Reverse hygral fatigue

While hair requires moisture to keep healthy, too much moisture might cause more harm than good. Try a protein therapy like rice water rinse to rebalance overly moistened locks (aka hygral exhaustion).

Hair type considerations

If you're new to protein treatments or aren't sure if your hair will benefit from one, colour-treated, relaxed, heat-styled, and natural hair all need a protein boost. Rice water is an excellent treatment for fine, lifeless hair because it is said to make hair shinier and stronger while also helping to keep knots at bay. Rice water contains protein, which helps to enhance the condition of dry, brittle, curly hair and make it more bouncy.

Those who desire to add shine to their hair as well as improve and reinforce the condition of their hair cuticle may benefit. Rice water is suitable for all hair types, however, those with low porosity hair should use it sparingly because the proteins may stick to your hair rather than being absorbed.

Precautions to take while using rice water

Rice water has no negative side effects when used on hair. It's one of the simplest ways to achieve thick, lustrous hair at home without having to worry about side effects. However, there is one thing you must keep in mind. After all, the rice water is fermented before being used. Because the fermentation process changes the pH of your scalp, you must ensure that it is not destroyed beyond repair. Every time you use your rice water, give it a good sniff. When a sour odour arises, it's time to throw it out and start over!

Take Away

This is the simplest, and one of the most effective, DIY beauty products available. If you're interested in learning more about this strategy, give it a shot. Just remember to take the rice water with you into the shower.