Rice water for hair care is commonly used in Asia, and you can easily try it in the comfort of your home.
If you usually throw away the water used to rinse rice, stop doing that because this milky water contains starch, minerals, and vitamins that you can use to care for your skin and hair health.
Additionally, rice water improves blood circulation, helps skin cell growth, and maintains a youthful appearance.
Noble women of the Japanese Imperial Court in 800 AD were known for their long and beautiful hair, and that’s because, as you guessed, they washed their hair with rice water.
Benefits of Rice Water for Hair
Stimulates Hair Growth
Nothing works better than rice water to reduce hair loss and promote growth. The amino acids present in rice water help regenerate hair and stimulate faster growth.
Rice water also contains vitamins B, C, and E, which further aid in hair growth.
The best way to use rice water to stimulate growth is to rinse it after washing. Follow this process at least twice a week, and you will definitely see results.
Reduces Split Ends
Hair strands need protein to prevent split ends, and rice water is rich in it.
The main causes of split ends are maintenance and pollution. The amino acids in rice water come to the rescue of your hair.
Soak the ends of your hair in rice water for 15-20 minutes and then wash. You will gradually see improvements.
Hair Rinse
Rinsing your hair with rice water after shampooing instead of using conditioner is the best thing you can do for your hair. It improves texture and increases volume. It also tames and smooths the hair, and most importantly, keeps it strong and healthy.
Protects Hair from Damage
Rice water improves the elasticity of hair strands. It contains a carbohydrate called inositol that repairs damaged hair and protects it from external factors.
What makes rice water so beneficial for this purpose is that inositol remains in your hair even after rinsing the rice water, maintaining its protective properties against damage.
Strengthens Roots and Smooths Hair Strands
Rice water is rich in amino acids. You will be amazed at how many benefits it offers to hair, strengthening both the hair strand and its roots, adding shine, and making it smoother and silkier.
Anti-Dandruff
Dandruff is, for some people, a persistent threat. Regular use of rice water completely combats this issue. Use it after every wash, and you will be surprised by the results.
Note: Green tea is an excellent addition to rice water as it provides extra shine and strength to your hair. It also reduces hair loss.
Methods of Preparing Rice Water
Boiled Rice Water
One way to obtain rice water is by boiling rice. The excess water left after boiling the rice is called boiled rice water. It is a concentrated liquid that you can dilute for use in washing your face or rinsing your hair.
Preparation method:
Boil one cup of rice in more water than you usually use to cook it.
Boil the rice until it softens. Strain the excess water.
Fermented Rice Water
Fermented rice water is water that is left to ferment for a period before use. Fermentation transforms rice water into a potent liquid that must be diluted before use.
How to prepare fermented rice water?
Take half a cup of rice and soak it in 2 cups of water. Let it sit for 15-30 minutes.
Strain the water into a jar and leave it at room temperature for a day or two.
Add one or two cups of warm water before using the fermented rice water, as it is concentrated.
