Rice water is a natural hair care product that has been used for centuries in Asian culture and has recently gained popularity as a TikTok trend. It is made by soaking or cooking rice in water, and the resulting starchy liquid contains many nutrients that make rice one of the worlds most important food sources. Rice water has been found to contain antioxidants, such as phenolic and flavonoid compounds, vitamin B6, vitamin E, starches, polysaccharides, and other carbohydrates, and amino acids.
Positive effects of rice water for hair:
- Softens and strengthens hair
- Promotes hair growth
- Increases shine
- Nourishes hair roots
- Provides restorative care to breakage-prone hair
- Makes hair soft and shiny
- Can help protect hair from frizz and heat
- Acts as a chemical-free cleanser to keep the scalp clean and healthy
Negative effects of rice water for hair:
- There are no known negative effects of using rice water on hair
Ingredients or materials:
- Rice (ideally organic rice, whether white or whole grain/brown rice)
- Water (ideally use filtered water so the finished product is free of impurities)
While there are limited studies on the efficacy of rice water for hair growth and skin health, it does contain beneficial compounds. Rice water hair care products must be free from sulfates, paraben, and phthalates, which are harmful ingredients that must be checked. Rice water can be used on all hair types, and it can be DIYed or purchased as a hair care product.
