Is Rice Water Good For Hair ?
Rice water has been a beauty secret in Asian cultures for centuries, recently gaining popularity on social media as beauty influencers praise it as a miracle solution for growing long, healthy hair. But does it truly promote hair growth, or is it just another trend?
Let's explore everything you need to know about rice water for hair.
What Is Rice Water? Rice water is the liquid left after rice has been cooked or soaked, rich in starch and other nutrients. It contains:
- Inositol
- Vitamin E
- Vitamin B
- Magnesium
- Fiber
- Zinc
- Manganese
Some of these nutrients are known to support healthy hair growth, such as:
- Vitamin E: Contains tocotrienol, an antioxidant shown to promote hair growth in people with alopecia, a condition causing hair loss.
- Magnesium: A key mineral essential for many bodily functions. Studies have shown that women with thinning hair experienced increased hair growth after supplementing with magnesium for 90 to 180 days.
- Vitamin B: Biotin, a B vitamin, is closely linked to hair growth. A deficiency in biotin can lead to hair loss, as it's crucial for keratin production, which is important for growing healthy hair and nails.
- Zinc: A deficiency in zinc can lead to hair loss, as it is vital for hair tissue growth and repair. Supplementing with zinc has been effective in reducing hair loss in those who are deficient.
How to Prepare Rice Water for Hair
Rice water is an affordable and easy beauty treatment. Popular methods for making it include:
- Short soak: Rinse one cup of rice, then soak it in two to three cups of water for 30 minutes to two hours.
- Boiling method: Cook rice as usual, but with extra water. After cooking, strain the rice and save the water for your hair.
- Fermented method: Some believe that letting the soaked rice water ferment for two to three days boosts its antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
For best results, the short soak method is recommended, as boiling might destroy some vitamins, and fermenting could introduce bacteria. To use, simply shampoo and rinse your hair as usual, then pour the rice water over your hair. Leave it in for 20 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with warm water.
Is Rice Water Good for Hair?
Anecdotal evidence suggests that rice water can aid hair growth. The people of Huangluo, China, who incorporate it into their hair care routine, hold the Guinness World Record for the "World's Longest-Haired Village." However, scientific evidence supporting rice water for hair growth is lacking.
While rice water contains nutrients associated with healthy hair, most studies on these nutrients were conducted on people with deficiencies, not those with normal levels. Moreover, these studies focused on the effects of consuming these nutrients orally, not applying them to hair.
Side Effects of Rice Water on Hair
Rice water is generally safe, with no significant risks, but certain individuals should consult their doctor before using it, such as:
- People with eczema: Those with eczema or atopic dermatitis may have issues due to their skin's impaired moisture barrier. It's best to test a small area first or consult a dermatologist.
- People experiencing hair loss: Before trying rice water, consult a doctor, as there are approved and effective treatments for many causes of hair loss.
Proven Ways to Grow Your Hair Faster
For scientifically backed methods to grow hair faster, consider these options alongside or instead of rice water:
- Check for nutrient deficiencies.
- Maintain a balanced diet, ensuring adequate intake of B and D vitamins, iron, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Consider biotin and collagen supplements.
- Limit heat treatments.
- Minimize chemical treatments.
- Avoid brushing wet hair.
- Get regular trims.