Rice water has taken the beauty world by storm, especially on platforms like TikTok and YouTube. Many swear by its ability to strengthen hair, add shine and even promote faster growth. But does it actually work? And how do you safely make a rice water rinse at home?
In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of rice water for hair, what science says about it, how to make your own DIY rice water rinse, and tips for using it effectively: especially if you have curly, coily, or fine hair.
What Is Rice Water?
Rice water is the starchy water left over after rice has been soaked or cooked. It’s packed with nutrients like:
- Amino acids
- Antioxidants
- Vitamins B and E
- Minerals (zinc, magnesium, and selenium)
- Inositol (a carbohydrate known to support hair strength and elasticity)
Historically, women in ancient Japan and China used rice water to keep their hair long, shiny, and healthy. The Yao women from Huangluo, China, are famous for their floor-length hair often credited to rice water rinses.
Does Rice Water Actually Promote Hair Growth?
While there’s plenty of anecdotal evidence, scientific research on rice water and hair growth is limited. However, rice water is believed to:
- Strengthen the hair shaft
- Reduce friction between strands (which may reduce breakage)
- Smooth the cuticle for shinier, more manageable hair
- Support scalp health due to its antioxidant and vitamin content
Inositol, a key compound in rice water, has been shown to penetrate and repair damaged hair from the inside out, even after rinsing.
Bottom line: While rice water may not directly cause new hair to grow, it can help reduce breakage, improve hair health, and support length retention over time.
DIY Rice Water Rinse: 3 Easy Methods
You don’t need fancy ingredients or products. Just rice and water! Here are three ways to make your own rice water at home:
1. Soaking Method (Quickest)
What You Need:
- ½ cup uncooked rice (white, brown, jasmine, or basmati)
- 1–2 cups of water
Instructions:
- Rinse the rice thoroughly to remove dirt and impurities.
- Place the rinsed rice in a bowl and add water.
- Let it soak for 30–60 minutes.
- Strain the rice and pour the water into a clean container.
✔️ Ready to use immediately.
2. Fermented Rice Water (Most Popular)
Fermenting boosts the nutrient profile and lowers the pH, making it closer to your scalp’s natural pH.
Instructions:
- Follow the soaking method.
- After soaking, leave the rice water at room temperature for 24–48 hours.
- You’ll notice a slightly sour smell, that means it’s fermenting.
- Strain and store in the fridge for up to 1 week.
💡 Dilute before use to avoid protein overload or irritation.
3. Boiling Method
Instructions:
- Boil ½ cup of rice in 2 cups of water.
- Let it simmer until the water becomes cloudy.
- Cool completely and strain into a container.
✅ Great if you’re short on time and want a more concentrated rinse.
How to Use a Rice Water Rinse on Hair
Step-by-Step:
- Shampoo your hair as usual.
- Apply the rice water to your hair and scalp.
- Massage gently for a few minutes.
- Leave it on for 10–20 minutes (up to 30 for low-porosity hair).
- Rinse thoroughly with water.
- Follow with conditioner if needed.
📅 How Often?
Start with 1–2 times per week. Overuse may cause protein buildup, especially on dry or brittle hair.
Who Should Be Cautious?
- Low porosity hair: Rice water is high in protein and can lead to stiffness or dryness.
- Sensitive scalp: Fermented rice water can be irritating if too concentrated.
- Fine or thin hair: Use a diluted version to avoid weighing hair down.
✅ Always do a patch test before using it for the first time.
Benefits of Rice Water for Hair
- Strengthens weak, brittle strands
- Improves shine and smoothness
- Reduces hair breakage
- Supports a healthy scalp
- May help retain length over time
Bonus Tip: Add Essential Oils
To enhance the benefits (and improve the smell), you can add a few drops of:
- Rosemary oil (for growth)
- Peppermint oil (for scalp stimulation)
- Lavender oil (for soothing)
Final Thoughts: Is Rice Water Worth Trying?
Rice water isn’t a miracle cure, but it can be a beneficial and budget-friendly part of your hair care routine. It’s easy to make, full of nutrients and backed by centuries of traditional beauty practices.
If you’re struggling with breakage, dullness, or slow hair growth it’s definitely worth a try. Just listen to your hair and adjust as needed!
Thank you for this in-depth look at the benefits of rice water for hair strength and growth and the detailed different ways to make it. I’ve been wanting to try it out & wasnt sure how to make it. I’ll definitely be trying these options to see which I like best!