colored hair spray for thinning hair

RICE WATER FOR HAIR? DOES IT EFFECTIVE

For a long time, people have been talking about a special beauty trick that families have been sharing for years: rice water. This simple liquid, left over from cooking or soaking rice, has become really popular online. People say it can make your hair shiny, help it grow faster, and stop it from breaking. But is rice water really as amazing as everyone says, or is it just a trend that will fade away? Let’s find out the real facts by looking at the science behind its claims, getting tips on how to use it, and hearing honest opinions from people who love taking care of their hair, just like you.

RICE WATER BENEFITS

FASTER GROWING HAIR

Using rice water for hair growth is like giving your hair a nourishing treat because it’s packed with fantastic ingredients. A key component is amino acids, which act as the building blocks for proteins. Since our hair is primarily composed of the protein keratin, the amino acids in rice water can strengthen our hair, promoting faster growth.

Moreover, rice water is a treasure trove of essential vitamins like B, C, and E, acting as superheroes for our hair. Vitamin B is especially beneficial for hair growth, ensuring our hair follicles remain healthy. Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant, maintaining the well-being of our scalp, while vitamin E acts as a protective shield, keeping our hair nourished and safe.

But the benefits don’t stop there! Rice water also contains a special carbohydrate called inositol, a superhero carb that repairs hair damage and acts like a shield, guarding against breakage. Inositol also functions as a moisturizer, adding flexibility and preventing our hair from becoming excessively dry, which is crucial for maintaining overall hair health and strength.

DETANGLES THE HAIR

When applied to hair, rice water helps to smooth out knots and snarls, making the combing or brushing process much easier. This detangling effect not only saves time but also reduces the risk of hair breakage, leaving your hair feeling smoother and more manageable.

The magic behind rice water’s detangling prowess lies in its composition of amino acids and proteins, which work together to soften the hair and minimize friction. By incorporating rice water into your hair care routine, you can enjoy the practical advantage of tangle-free hair, all while indulging in the simplicity of this age-old beauty secret.

THICKER AND SHINIER HAIR

Experience the transformative magic of rice water for thicker and shinier hair. Enthusiasts swear by the natural benefits of rice water, claiming that it adds volume and thickness to hair strands. The amino acids and proteins present in rice water are thought to fortify each hair strand, enhancing its structural integrity and contributing to a fuller appearance. Beyond thickness, rice water is also praised for its ability to impart a dazzling shine to your locks. Rich in vitamins B, C, and E, rice water nourishes and protects the hair shaft, leaving it with a radiant luster. 

Incorporating rice water into your hair care routine might just be the key to achieving that coveted combination of thickness and shine, giving you the confidence to flaunt your radiant mane.

REVERSES HYGRAL FATIGUE

Keeping your hair moisturized is good for its health, but too much moisture can cause problems. If your hair gets too much moisture, it might experience something called hygral fatigue. This happens when your hair soaks up too much water during moisturizing, making the hair cuticle bulge and stretch. This can make your hair break easily, lose its stretchiness, and get damaged.

To fix and balance your hair, you can use rice water. The proteins in rice water are believed to help with hygral fatigue by making your hair stronger. When you add protein to your hair using rice water, it can restore balance, make your hair stronger overall, and stop more damage from happening. Adding protein treatments, like using rice water, to your hair routine is a good way to make sure your hair has the right balance of moisture and protein, helping it stay strong and flexible.

SOFTER HAIR

Rice water is famous for making hair really nice. One cool thing it does is make your hair super soft and smooth. When you use it on your hair, it makes it easier to manage, and you can feel how soft it is. The special thing about rice water is that it has good stuff like amino acids, vitamins, and inositol. These things work together to feed and hydrate your hair, making it less frizzy and improving how it feels overall.

You can use rice water by itself or mix it into hair masks. It’s like a gentle and moisturizing treatment that makes your hair softer and shinier. People love using rice water because it’s a natural and awesome way to make your hair feel really nice and easy to touch.

WHO SHOULD USE RICE WATER?

The cool thing is, rice water is good for many types of hair, whether you colored it or not. It helps fine or dull hair become stronger and shinier, and if you have curly hair, it gives it more bounce. If your hair is damaged or thinning, the inositol in rice water can help it grow and become thicker.

But here’s a tip: if your hair doesn’t soak up things easily (low porosity hair), it’s better to use a little bit of rice water. This is because the proteins might stick to your hair instead of getting inside. Not sure if your hair soaks up stuff easily? You can try a simple test to find out.

HOW TO USE RICE WATER FOR HAIR

PREPARE THE RICE WATER

Using rice water on your hair is a straightforward process that begins with preparing the rice water. Start by rinsing one cup of rice thoroughly to get rid of any impurities. Place the rinsed rice in a bowl and add two to three cups of water. Let the rice soak for 15 to 30 minutes, allowing the water to absorb the beneficial nutrients from the rice. During this time, gently swirl or knead the rice to facilitate the release of compounds.

STRAIN THE RICE WATER

Once the soaking is complete, strain the rice from the water. The liquid you have now is your homemade rice water, rich in nutrients that can benefit your hair.

RINSE OR SOAK

There are two main methods for applying rice water to your hair: rinsing and soaking. For the rinsing method, pour the rice water onto your hair after shampooing, massaging it into your scalp and strands before thoroughly rinsing. Alternatively, you can immerse your hair in a bowl of rice water for 10 to 30 minutes, allowing your hair to absorb more nutrients during the soaking process.

MASSAGE AND COMB

Regardless of the method you choose, take a moment to massage the rice water gently into your scalp. This helps distribute the nutrients and stimulates blood circulation. Use a wide-tooth comb to ensure even distribution of the rice water from the roots to the tips of your hair.

RINSE AGAIN

After massaging and combing, rinse your hair thoroughly with plain water. This step ensures that any residue is washed away, leaving your hair clean and refreshed.

ADJUST FREQUENCY

Begin by using rice water once a week and observe how your hair responds. Adjust the frequency based on your hair’s needs and your personal preferences.

OPTIONAL ADDITIONS

To enhance the experience, consider customizing your rice water treatment. Add a few drops of essential oils like lavender or rosemary for a pleasant fragrance and potential additional benefits to your hair.

HOW TO MAKE RICE WATER FOR HAIR

Here’s how to make rice water at home in an easy way:

  • Take 2 cups of rice and add 4 cups of water to it. That’s a 1:2 ratio of rice to water, and it’s important to keep this balance.
  • Put everything into a glass bottle, close it tightly, and leave it in a dark place at room temperature for 8 to 16 hours. While the rice sits, the water should turn foggy white.
  • After the rice has soaked, get an empty container (a spray bottle is a good choice for easy use) and strain the rice water into it.
  • If you have any rice water left after using it, you can keep it in the fridge for up to 5 days. But if it starts to smell funny, like sour, toss it out because it might harm your hair.

BEST RICE WATER HAIR PRODUCTS

Mielle Rice Water Hydrating Shampoo

Mielle Rice Water Hydrating Shampoo is crafted to provide nourishment and moisture to dry or thirsty hair. Enriched with the goodness of rice water, it aims to strengthen and revitalize strands, promoting overall hair health. This hydrating shampoo is designed to be a refreshing and effective choice for those looking to infuse their hair care routine with the benefits of rice water, leaving the hair feeling cleansed, revitalized, and moisturized.

Briogeo Don’t Despair Repair Rice Water Protein + Moisture Strengthening Treatment

Briogeo’s protein-infused treatment, available at $44 on sephora.com, features a rice protein complex sourced from rice water, along with proteins, ferment, and oil. This combination is designed to safeguard hair from potential damage, making it a great choice for those with dry and brittle hair seeking assistance in improving elasticity.

 WOW Skin Science Rice Water Conditioner

Packed with beneficial elements such as rice water, rice keratin, and the calming fragrance of lavender oil, the WOW Skin Science Rice Water Conditioner is specially formulated for damaged, dry, and frizzy hair, offering thorough care. The inclusion of rice water extract, known for its antioxidants, amino acids, zinc, and magnesium content, works to strengthen and add shine, while rice keratin contributes to improving hair texture. Lavender oil, rich in phytonutrients, not only stimulates the scalp but also soothes irritation, providing a rejuvenating experience for both hair and scalp. With these powerful ingredients, this conditioner leaves your hair feeling silky, easy to manage, and less prone to breakage.

Pattern Beauty Treatment Mask

Created specifically for coils and curls, this mask, available for $25 on ulta.com, provides slip, elongation, and definition to curly hair. It incorporates softening and strengthening components such as rice water ferment and moringa seed extract.

FAQ

1. How long should I leave rice water in my hair?

You can leave rice water in your hair for about 15 to 30 minutes before rinsing it out.

2. Who shouldn’t use rice water for hair?

People with low porosity hair should use rice water in moderation as the proteins may attach to the hair rather than being absorbed.

3. Does rice water stop hair loss?

Uncertain. Scientific research on its effectiveness is limited, and individual results may vary.

CONCLUSION

Nowadays, the use of natural methods is increasingly popular because of their benign nature. In addition to rice water, mention can be made of tea tree oil and rosemary oil. The use of rice water for hair has become popular, with anecdotal evidence showing various benefits such as improved shine, strength, and hair growth. While some studies suggest positive effects, more robust scientific research is needed to determine the exact effectiveness of rice water on hair. Each individual’s experience may vary, and it is essential that each individual approaches this natural treatment with awareness and consideration of his or her specific hair needs.

The 18 best heat protectant sprays and creams to protect hair

Have you ever wondered how to shield your hair from the relentless heat of styling tools without compromising its health and vibrancy? In a world where sleek and stylish hair is often achieved with the help of heated tools, the importance of safeguarding your locks cannot be overstated. That’s where the magic of  heat protectant sprays and creams comes into play. 

Join with us on a journey to find innovative products designed to protect your hair from the heat, keeping it strong and lively. So, scroll down and check out 18 best heat protectant sprays and creams that keep your hair resilient and vibrant, maintaining that modern and elegant look.

How does heat protectant work? 

Heat protectants for hair establish a protective barrier around the hair cuticle, safeguarding it from potential damage caused by various harmful factors. Components like panthenol and propylene glycol, found in these products, amplify their efficacy when exposed to direct high heat. This ensures optimal moisture retention and averts frizz. Over time, these protectants shield the hair from the adverse effects of high-temperature styling tools, preserving a smooth and glossy appearance.

What should you look for in a heat protectant?

When choosing a heat protectant, there are several factors to consider to safeguard your hair from heat damage. Here are some key aspects to look for:

Heat protection level: The heat protection level of a heat protectant is determined by its ability to withstand high temperatures without breaking down. Jonathan Colombini, the creative director of style and color at L’Oréal Paris, suggests checking for explicit mentions of a product’s heat-protecting properties. Additionally, he recommends adhering to guidelines that guarantee protection at temperatures up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.

Hair type: Different hair types require different formulations. Becca Nilsson, the director of artist training at Blo Blow Dry Bar, provides tailored insights based on individual hair types. For those with fine, thin hair, she advises opting for a lightweight heat protectant to prevent excessive product buildup. Conversely, individuals with thick hair may find an oil-based conditioner beneficial for effective heat protection.

Ingredients: The ingredients in a heat protectant can play a role in its effectiveness. Look for heat protectants that contain natural ingredients, such as keratin, argan oil, or coconut oil. These ingredients can help to protect your hair from damage and add shine.

To assist you in discovering top-notch heat protection products, we consulted stylists for their recommended picks, including their favorite tried-and-tested heat protection creams and sprays. We also thoroughly scoured leading retailers to compile a list of the highest-rated and best-reviewed options, which you can explore below.

Our top picks

Moroccanoil Perfect Defense Heat Protectant 

Moroccanoil Perfect Defense Heat Protectant is a must-have for hair care. It does more than just protect your hair from heat damage. With argan oil and vitamins, this lightweight spray shields your hair during heat styling and adds a luxurious shine. It’s not greasy, so your hair stays light and residue-free. Whether you’re using a flat iron, curling wand, or blow dryer, it acts as a reliable barrier, even guarding color-treated hair from the sun. The pleasant Moroccanoil scent enhances your styling experience, ensuring your locks stay healthy and vibrant. Although your hair may initially feel a bit stiff after applying, this sensation fades after brushing.

Olaplex No. 9 Bond Protector Nourishing Hair Serum

Olaplex No. 9 Bond Nourishing Hair Serum is a revolutionary product designed to transform and nourish your hair. This cutting-edge serum is part of the Olaplex professional hair care line, known for its innovative approach to repairing and maintaining hair health. No. 9 Bond is formulated with a proprietary blend of ingredients that work to strengthen, hydrate, and protect the hair’s bonds. Whether used as a standalone treatment or combined with other Olaplex products, this serum helps reduce breakage, enhance shine, and improve overall hair texture. It is particularly beneficial for those with damaged or color-treated hair, providing a luxurious and effective solution for achieving healthier, more resilient strands. However, for those with sensitive noses, this scent can be overwhelming.

Living Proof Restore Perfecting Spray 

This innovative spray is specifically crafted to address the challenges of frizz, offering a lightweight and effective solution for smoother, more manageable locks. Formulated by Living Proof, a brand renowned for its scientific approach to hair care, this spray combines advanced hair care technology with nourishing ingredients. It works to detangle, condition, and protect hair, while also enhancing its natural shine. The Restore Perfecting Spray is particularly effective for individuals with frizzy hair, helping to combat humidity-induced frizz and leaving hair noticeably softer. The drawback of this product is its relatively high price.

Briogeo Farewell Frizz

Briogeo Blow Dry Perfection & Heat Protectant Crème is a game-changer for individuals with thinning hair seeking the perfect blow-dry while ensuring optimal protection. This lightweight yet powerful cream is meticulously crafted by Briogeo, a brand known for its clean and naturally derived formula. Specifically designed for fine hair, the cream provides heat protection, preventing damage caused by styling tools while enhancing the overall hair-drying experience. The unique blend of ingredients helps to add volume, reduce frizz, and deliver a smooth, shiny look without weighing down delicate strands. With a commitment to hair quality and health, Blow Dry Perfection & Heat Protectant becomes an essential product for those with thinning hair who want salon-worthy volume. It is important to note that excessive application may result in a sensation of heaviness in the hair.

Chi Total Protect 

Elevate your hair care routine with this powerhouse product, designed to keep thick hair looking and feeling its best. Created by Chi, a brand synonymous with innovation in hair care, Total Protect offers a potent blend of ingredients to shield thick strands from the rigors of styling and environmental stressors. Whether it’s heat protection, moisture retention, or overall hair health, Chi Total Protect excels in providing a holistic solution. Due to its creamy consistency, achieving even coverage on dry hair can be a bit challenging.

Kérastase Blond Absolu Heat Protecting Serum 

Kérastase Blond Absolu Heat Protecting Serum is a serum for those with color-treated hair, especially blondes. This product is tailored to meet the specific needs of colored locks, offering unparalleled heat protection while preserving the vibrancy of blonde shades. Developed by Kérastase, a brand synonymous with luxury and innovation in hair care, this serum is a must-have for anyone seeking to safeguard their color investment. Its lightweight formula not only shields hair from heat damage during styling but also imparts a luminous shine and smooth texture. However at first, there’s a slight stickiness on the strands, but it vanishes once fully absorbed.

Bumble and bumble Bb.Illuminated Blonde Purple Leave In Spray

Bumble and bumble Bb.Illuminated Blonde Purple Leave In Spray is the optimal choice for colored hair. Specially crafted to meet the specific needs of bleached strands, this no-rinse spray is a game-changer in the world of hair care. Celebrated for its innovative products, it not only diminishes color dullness and enhances brightness for bleached hair but also helps maintain the cool undertones of blonde shades while providing nourishment and moisture. Some comments indicate that this product has the potential to cause irritation.

Shu Uemura Netsu Design Blow Dry Cream

This styling product is specifically for blow-drying, but tested on hot tools reveals its effectiveness, especially in safeguarding hair strands from high temperatures up to 450°F. Overall, this heat protectant is easy to apply, and the creamy formula blends well into strands for even coverage. It absorbs quickly, providing an undetectable amount of hydration. In addition to its hydrating and heat-protecting properties, the cream helps reduce frizz and imparts an overall shine. Its light scent, not too strong and dissipating quickly, adds to its appeal. This product is exclusively designed for use on damp hair, making it unsuitable for dry strands.

Oribe Royal Blowout Heat Styling Spray

Crafted to offer heat protection up to 450°F, this fairy elixir features advanced heat-activated polymer technology for strand-smoothing effects. While one tester observed a reduction in flyaways post-styling, some users reported minimal distinction between applying the balm and not using it. Nevertheless, its efficient application means a little goes a long way, suggesting prolonged usage from a single bottle. The Oribe heat protectant may appear a bit expensive, priced at approximately $45 for 3.4 ounces. 

Tresemmé Heat Tamer Spray

TRESemmé Thermal Creations Heat Tamer Spray provides effective protection against the heat from flat irons and curling irons. By creating a shield against heat and friction, it leaves hair shiny and irresistibly soft. This heat protectant spray not only safeguards your hair but also enhances its flexibility for easy restyling. Activated by heat, it helps defend against styling damage and maintains your desired hair shape. You can enjoy the benefits of a professional, affordable salon-quality heat protectant without the hefty salon price tag. A drawback of this product is its less durable nozzle, which tends to break easily!

Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil Heat & UV Protective Primer

With a blend of coconut, argan, grapeseed, macadamia nut, sweet almond, and safflower oils, Bumble & Bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Thermal & UV Protective Primer delivers rich nourishment and provides volume and radiant shine. With a remarkable 50% reduction in frizz, this product comes in a generous 8.5-ounce bottle, offering significant value in the price around $32. In addition to hydrating dry strands and protecting against damage from hot tools, this hair primer also provides a conditioner-like feel, leaving hair noticeably softer and smoother. However, it should be noted that it contains many oil-based ingredients, so it is not ideal for oily or thin hair.

BondiBoost Prep & Protect Hair Primer

Designed for a variety of hair types, this product stands out thanks to its exclusively plant-based and vegan ingredients. It contains moisturizing elements such as aloe vera and meadowfoam seed oil to infuse moisture and amaranth seed extract to fortify hair against breakage. While it’s generally gentle and suitable for most people, some feedback suggests it may lack the moisture needed for curly hair. However, its adaptability and use of natural, plant-based ingredients make it an attractive option for those looking for a reliable and cruelty-free hair care solution.

Redken Quick Blowout Heat Protectant Spray

Since incorporating this product into their hair care routine, many people have noticed a marked improvement in their dry and frizzy hair. The product not only brings exceptional value compared to the price but also makes a difference thanks to its outstanding quality, providing a gentle and comfortable feeling to the hair. Notably, users observed a significant reduction in hair breakage, making it an important addition to their hair care regimen. There are a lot of positive reviews for this product. The cost seems a bit high, but the long-term benefits and positive impact on hair health make it a worthwhile investment for many.

Pureology Strength Cure Miracle Filler Heat Protectant Spray

Strength Cure Miracle Filler is designed for those with compromised, color-treated hair, providing a heat protectant that strengthens, repairs, and shields against heat damage. Infused with xylose, coriander oil, and chamomile, this formula offers comprehensive protection and nourishment. Xylose guards against heat styling, coriander oil imparts strength, and chamomile moisturizes. This daily leave-in blow dry lotion fortifies and hydrates while acting as a barrier against styling and future harm. Although praised for its benefits, there are some reports of it causing stickiness and lacking smoothness in the hair.

Verb Glossy Shine Spray with Heat Protection

This versatile moisturizing spray is appropriate for all hair types that need heat protection or extra shine. It’s praised for being an effective heat protectant with a residue-free formula. Many customers expressed surprise at its effectiveness on both thick and fine hair, accompanied by a clean and pleasant fragrance. They also reported that their hair felt softer after styling, praising it as a great solution without the heaviness of similar products. The general consensus is that this hairspray is truly amazing and worth repurchasing. Only a few people who bought it did not like the scent and said it was sticky.

Unite Hair 7Seconds Glossing Spray

The Unite Hair 7Seconds Glossing Spray provides a multitude of benefits for your hair care routine. Firstly, it offers instant shine, imparting a glossy and radiant finish to your locks in a matter of seconds. This quick and effective glossing action enhances the overall appearance of your hair, making it look healthier and more vibrant. Additionally, the spray acts as a detangler, making it easier to manage and style your hair by reducing knots and snarls. The formulation is lightweight, ensuring that your hair maintains a natural feel without weighing it down. Furthermore, the 7Seconds Glossing Spray contains protective elements that help shield your hair from environmental factors and heat styling damage.Some people say the product can make hair sticky, but it’s important to use the right amount, not too much.

Mizani Heat Screen Hair Protectant Spray

One study published in the International Journal of Trichology, found that Mizani Heat Screen Protective Spray was effective at protecting curly hair from heat damage up to 450°F. The study also concluded that Mizani Heat Screen Protective Spray helped to maintain curl definition and reduce breakage. It contains rose water that helps control frizz and make hair softer. People really like this spray because it provides a lot of benefits to the hair but doesn’t make it feel too oily or heavy. It makes curls smooth and soft with a light feeling. We really enjoy the smell, and it can be like a perfume for your hair, but it might be overwhelming for some people who don’t appreciate strong scents.

Gisou Heat Protecting Spray

Choosing the right hair product for thin hair can be tricky because you want it to make your hair look good without making it heavy. That’s where Gisou Heat Protecting Spray comes in—it’s a great choice for people with thin hair. This spray keeps your hair safe from high heat, up to 446°F, and it has been propolis to make your hair strong and prevent it from breaking. When we tried it out, the best part was the spray cap. It spreads the product evenly on your hair, making it easy to use. Besides being easy to use, the spray is also really light, making our hair feel smooth and weightless, like there’s nothing on it.. One thing to note is that it has a honey-like smell, which some people might not prefer.

Conclusion

The exploration of the 18 best heat protectant sprays and creams has provided valuable insights into an essential aspect of hair care. Recognizing the importance of shielding hair from high temperatures, these products offer a diverse range of formulations and benefits, from lightweight solutions suitable for fine hair to those enriched with nourishing ingredients for added care. The reviews highlight the effectiveness, user-friendliness, and unique features of each product, assisting consumers in making informed choices based on their specific hair needs and preferences. Ultimately, incorporating a high-quality heat protectant into one’s hair care routine is a proactive step toward maintaining healthy, vibrant hair while enjoying the freedom to style without compromising its integrity.