Rice water, long a staple in ancient beauty rituals of China and Japan, has recently flooded social media feeds as a natural remedy for fuller, longer hair. But beyond the viral TikTok videos, does it actually work?
The main appeal of rice water lies in its purported hair growth benefits. Numerous videos showcase dramatic transformations, with users experiencing increased volume and length after a few weeks of use. However, these claims are primarily anecdotal. While both dermatologist Hadley King and certified trichologist Bridgette Hill acknowledge the potential benefits of rice water, they emphasize the need for more scientific research to prove its effectiveness in promoting hair growth.
“There is no denying the vitamins and minerals in rice are key factors in healthy scalp and hair growth function,” says Hill. However, she adds, “There is not enough clinical data to prove that using rice water as a hair treatment is beneficial to hair growth.”
Despite the lack of conclusive evidence, rice water remains a popular and generally safe hair treatment option. King explains, “It does contain amino acids, B vitamins, vitamin E, other antioxidants, minerals, and inositol, which could help to strengthen hair strands.” Hill further notes that rice water acts as a protein treatment, effectively minimizing frizz and smoothing out hair strands.
Incorporating rice water into your hair care routine is fairly simple. King recommends pouring it onto your hair after shampooing and conditioning, allowing the hair to absorb the nutrients. You can also spray it on after washing as a leave-in treatment. If you prefer using products that contain rice water, follow the instructions on the bottle for best results.
For a DIY solution, making rice water is incredibly easy. King advises soaking half a cup of uncooked rice in two cups of water for about an hour. Strain the rice and save the liquid in a container, such as a spray bottle or a jar, for use on your hair.
While rice water is generally safe, it’s important to consider potential side effects. Hill warns that mixing food-based hair products with over-the-counter or medicated treatments may lead to adverse reactions due to incompatible ingredients.
Additionally, rice water might not be suitable for all hair types. Those with high porosity hair (hair that readily absorbs products, water, and treatments) are more likely to benefit from rice water than those with low porosity hair. High porosity hair allows the rice protein molecules to fill in the gaps in the cuticle, resulting in stronger, shinier hair. However, for those with low porosity hair, rice water can cause protein buildup.
Hill strongly advises individuals with scalp conditions like dandruff or eczema to consult a trichologist or dermatologist before using rice water or any food-based hair products.
King emphasizes that if your primary goal is hair growth, rice water shouldn’t replace proven ingredients like minoxidil. Using both rice water and minoxidil can potentially help achieve your desired results.
For those who prefer ready-made solutions, several products incorporate rice protein. Hill recommends Briogeo’s Don’t Despair Repair Strengthening Treatment, which contains a proprietary rice protein complex. King suggests Unite Hair 7Seconds Detangler, which contains hydrolyzed rice protein and moisturizing properties that protect against UV and heat damage, strengthen the cuticle, and prevent breakage. Function of Beauty’s Custom Wavy Hair Shampoo With Fermented Rice Water and Jooy Soothing Scalp Serum are other readily available options to incorporate into your hair care routine.
Before embracing rice water, remember to determine if your hair can handle it. The last thing anyone wants is to create new hair problems!
