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 16 best hair growth oils, Tested by Experts

Everyone wishes to have healthy, soft, and shiny hair. However, our hair is not always as beautiful as we desire. Sometimes, hair can get tangled, broken, or lose its shape. We should change the way we take care of our hair every day to have long, smooth, and beautiful hair. That’s why the demand for hair care products is increasing. To keep your hair soft and smooth, it is important to use conditioner along with washing and rinsing your hair, as well as using a hair conditioner for hair growth. If you want to learn more about hair care products, check out our list of the 16 best hair growth oils that will make your hair look gorgeous. Keep scrolling.

The Benefits of hair growth oil 

Using hair growth oils can offer various benefits for maintaining healthy and vibrant hair. These oils are rich in essential nutrients and vitamins that nourish the scalp and hair follicles, promoting stronger and shinier locks. Additionally, many hair growth oils have moisturizing properties, preventing dryness and reducing the risk of split ends.

Some oils also possess anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which can contribute to a healthier scalp environment and may aid in preventing issues like dandruff. Regular application of these oils can improve blood circulation to the scalp, stimulating hair growth and reducing hair loss. With their natural conditioning abilities, hair growth oils provide an effective and holistic approach to achieving and maintaining luscious, resilient hair.

16 Best Hair Growth Oils Recommended By Expert

Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil

Many experts and people really like this oil, and there are good reasons for that. It contains biotin and peppermint oil, both known to help hair grow. Additionally, it moisturizes hair and prevents breakage. The formula includes a blend of more than 30 different oils, such as castor and lavender oils. Priced under $10, you only need a few drops per use. According to dermatologist Dr. Lindsey Zubritskey, it features rosemary oil, a proven ingredient for promoting hair regrowth, and it can also strengthen your hair follicles. It’s an excellent choice to keep your hair healthy and strong. However, some reviewers found it too heavy and thick for their hair.

Easy Naturals Advanced Hair Growth Oil

This oil is a great choice for promoting hair growth, made with a blend of essential oils, including rosemary, peppermint, and lavender, all known for their hair-boosting benefits. It’s lightweight and non-greasy, ensuring it won’t weigh your hair down. The company also markets it as a hair growth serum. Easy Naturals hair growth serum effectively wakes up dormant hair follicles, thanks to its nutrient-rich and organic ingredients, promoting rapid hair growth and maintaining overall hair health. The product, which includes a massage brush, enhances the experience by increasing blood flow to your scalp. While some rare cases suggest possible allergies or rashes due to ingredients, such occurrences are infrequent.

Wild Growth Hair Oil

This oil is a budget-friendly choice that works well. It’s made with a mix of castor oil, coconut oil, and vitamin E, all beneficial for promoting hair growth. It also keeps your hair moisturized and stops it from breaking. David Petrillo, a cosmetic chemist, highly recommends Wild Growth Hair Oil, listing it among his top choices. The formulation incorporates a blend of essential oils such as lavender, peppermint, and jojoba. According to Petrillo, jojoba oil is commonly utilized for scalp and hair moisturization, although there is limited research on its specific impact on hair growth. Nevertheless, it is believed to contribute to overall hair health. The recommended usage involves applying a few drops of the oil one to three times a week, ensuring the longevity of the four-ounce bottle. The drawback of this product is its smell. Some reviewers don’t like how it smells.

Vegamour GRO Hair Serum

This serum is a game-changer for those with sensitive scalps. It’s made with a blend of plant-based ingredients, including red clover, mung bean sprouts, and turmeric, all of which have clinically proven hair-boosting benefits. These ingredients help recharge cells, improve skin and hair health, stimulate the hair growth cycle, and prevent future hair loss. The serum is suitable for all hair types and curl patterns, especially effective in adding volume and density to your hair. The only caveat is its cost – a 1 oz. bottle is priced at $64, providing 30 days of continuous use before needing a replacement. Alternatively, you can opt for a value pack containing three bottles, ensuring the recommended 90 days of use.

Kitsch Rosemary Oil for Hair Growth & Healthy Scalp

This oil is pure rosemary oil, great for stimulating the scalp and promoting hair growth. It’s also moisturizing and helps prevent breakage. Formulated with scalp-friendly ingredients like castor oil, Kitsch Pre-Wash Scalp Oil is designed to loosen buildup before shampooing. It’s naturally fragranced with a calming lavender scent. The oil is meant to be left on for 10 minutes, which is ideal if you don’t like leaving oil on your scalp for long periods. The bottle is made of recyclable aluminum, and the dropper is made of recycled plastic. It is important to note that this product is not suited for those who stick to unscented products.

Mauli Rituals Grow Strong Hair Oil

Mauli Rituals promotes the application of its Grow Strong Hair Oil through a soothing head massage. The oil can be purchased with or without a comb, providing additional scalp stimulation. The recommended usage involves applying a few drops twice a week for the initial six weeks, followed by once per week. It can be left on for 20 minutes or overnight before washing, or applied to strands for managing dry ends. Enriched with beneficial plant-derived ingredients like amla and Bhringraj oils, the product has garnered positive reviews for imparting glossiness and shine to fine, naturally gray hair, as well as promoting regrowth. Due to its effectiveness, the price is relatively high and is rarely discounted. 

Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Tea Tree Scalp Treatment Serum

If your scalp gets dry and flaky due to weather changes or not drinking enough water, a good solution is to use a moisturizing serum in your hair care routine. The Briogeo Charcoal and Tea Tree Treatment is a great choice. It contains ingredients like binchotan charcoal (cleansing), biotin (for hair growth), peppermint, and tea tree oil (soothing for dry and irritated scalps), and witch hazel (controls oil). This product hydrates and calms dry, irritated skin. In tests, it increased scalp hydration by up to two times. It works well with all hair types, so everyone can enjoy its nourishing benefits. However, it’s important to note that the mint ingredient in this serum may leave a tingling sensation, which may not be appreciated by everyone.

Kiehl’s Magic Elixir Scalp & Hair Oil Treatment

Dermatologist Marisa Garshick, MD, recommends Kiehl’s Magic Elixir. She appreciates its versatility as a pre-shampoo treatment, nourishing the scalp and hair for overall improved health. The application involves leaving it on a dry scalp for 10 minutes before rinsing or washing the hair. Suitable for all hair types, including fine hair, it is fragrance-free and features ingredients like rosemary oil and moisturizing avocado oil. Some user’s positive reviews note significant improvements in hair thickness, softness, shine, and relief from scalp itchiness after just three uses. However, it scored poorly in terms of environmental impact compared to other products.

Squigs Beauty Gooseberry Delight Hair Oil

Experience the benefits of our award-winning headcare treatment, designed to promote strong, shiny hair and maintain a healthy scalp. Squigs hair oil features amla oil, derived from the gooseberry plant, a beauty treatment deeply rooted in Indian traditions for centuries. Setting us apart from other hair oils, our products are free from unnecessary fragrances and dyes that may lead to a dry, itchy, and irritated scalp. For optimal results, we recommend leaving it on overnight to fully indulge in the transformative experience. This oil is an excellent choice for individuals with oily hair and is particularly beneficial for those with dry and combination hair.

Leonor Greyl Régénérescence Naturelle

Leonor Greyl Régénerescence Naturelle has a mix of 16 oils, and some are grown without chemicals. These oils work together to feed your hair and scalp and help your hair grow. To get the best results, you should leave the treatment on for 15 minutes to overnight. This product is good for people who like things that are vegan, don’t harm animals, don’t have silicones, and don’t have fake ingredients. The oil comes in a small bottle with a rollerball, so it’s easy to put on without making a mess. It’s a bit expensive, though.

Pattern Jojoba Oil Hair Serum

Pattern Beauty is famous for creating products that love curls. One of their special products is the Jojoba Oil Hair Serum, which goes beyond just curls. This serum gives an extra dose of moisture, and while anyone can use it, it’s especially great for hair with low porosity. Low porosity hair is often straight or wavy but still has some texture. This hair type tends to accumulate residue on the scalp so, it needs a very light product. This formula has a lot of jojoba oil, and it also has safflower, rosehip, olive, and lavender oils. These oils help fix damaged hair and keep moisture in your scalp and strands. Those with high porosity hair may find this oil too thin to penetrate their strands.

Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector

Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector is a really effective treatment, especially if your hair has been damaged by chemicals like dyes or perms. What makes it special is that it has patented ingredients. These special ingredients have a great effect in repairing broken bonds in hair, making it stronger and stimulating hair growth. No. 3 Hair Perfector™ is an innovative bonding agent that repairs damage right from the start, at the molecular level. That’s why it’s trusted by stylists, editors, and those looking for healthy hair. Patented OLAPLEX Bond Building Technology™ helps rebuild broken disulfide bonds to restore strength for visibly healthier hair. The cost may seem a bit high, and in some use cases, breakage is also a disadvantage of this product.

Ceremonia Aceite de Moska Pre-Shampoo Scalp & Hair Oil

Ceremonia Aceite de Moska is an oil you put on your hair before washing to help with itchy and flaky scalp and make your hair grow healthy. They suggest using a massager to put it on your scalp, leaving it for 15 minutes or overnight, and then washing your hair. Ceremonia cares about the environment and uses packaging that’s 30 to 100 percent recycled. They’re plastic-negative, meaning they take out more plastic from nature than they use, which helps with recycling. People really like it! Someone said it helped with dry hair and hair loss after having a baby. But, be careful if you don’t like strong smells.

Moroccanoil Treatment

A multitasking hair treatment infused with antioxidant-rich argan oil and essential fatty acids for a healthier look. Rated as the number 1 hair conditioner in the US. The outstanding benefits of this product are that it nourishes hair, smoothens frizz, detangles, and increases shine by up to 118%. Apply a small amount from mid-lengths to ends. Blow dry or let it dry naturally. It is also effective on dry hair. Many customers liked this product so much that they rated it as worth every penny and felt super satisfied. They just have used it in one month and noticed their hair looks more vibrant, brighter, and softer. If I had to name the only drawback of the product, it would definitely be its cost. That is obvious.

The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density

You might know The Ordinary for their good formulas and affordable prices. But, guess what? They also make stuff for your hair! One thing they have is the Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density. This special mix does a lot of work to fight hair loss and make your hair look thicker and healthier. It has Redensyl™, which comes from plants and wakes up sleepy hair follicles. There’s also Procapil™ that boosts scalp circulation and tackles aging follicles. And, don’t forget Baicapil™ – a mix of plant stuff that helps hair grow and get denser. They say you should put a few drops on your clean, dry scalp before bedtime. Some people even say it’s better than minoxidil, and many notice a big change in how thick their hair looks on their heads. Although praised for its benefits, some people say that it irritates their scalp.

The Mane Choice The Alpha Multi-Vitamin Scalp Growth Oil

The Mane Choice Alpha Multivitamin Scalp Nourishing Growth Oil is a perfect blend of multivitamins and essential nutrients designed to encourage natural hair growth. The nutritional formula of Mane Choice multivitamins helps improve your overall hair quality, reducing hair loss due to breakage. Especially with its vitamin C content combined with nourishing oils, this product helps restore and nourish your hair to a healthier, longer, and thicker state. Some individuals who purchased it did not appreciate the scent, and it may feel too heavy for those with fine hair.

How to Pick the Right Hair Growth Oil

Choosing the right hair growth oil involves considering various factors related to your hair type, specific needs, and personal preferences. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you pick the right hair growth oil

Identify Your Hair Type

Understand your hair type, whether it’s straight, curly, wavy, fine, thick, dry, or oily. Different hair types have varying needs, and certain oils may be more effective for specific textures. Take into account your scalp type. If you have a dry scalp, choose oils with moisturizing properties. For an oily scalp, opt for lighter oils that won’t weigh your hair down.

Determine Your Hair Concerns

Identify and analyze the unique issues affecting your hair, including but not limited to issues like hair loss, dryness, frizz, or damage. Explore oils that possess specific properties tailored to alleviate and target your individual hair concerns.

Research Key Ingredients

Explore hair oils containing key ingredients renowned for enhancing hair health, including Biotin for growth, Castor Oil for nourishment and thickness, Argan Oil for shine and frizz reduction, Jojoba Oil for scalp and hair moisturization, and Vitamin E as an antioxidant for a healthy scalp. Steer clear of detrimental components like sulfates and silicones that can deplete natural oils and contribute to damage.

Perform Patch Tests

Before incorporating a new oil into your hair care routine, it’s essential to conduct a patch test on a small section of your scalp. Applying a small amount of the oil to a discrete area minimizes the risk of adverse effects and ensures a safer and more informed integration into your overall hair care regimen.

Read Product Reviews

Gain a comprehensive understanding of the product’s efficacy by perusing reviews from other users. This approach provides valuable insights into how the product performs in addressing specific issues and ensures that you are considering experiences most relevant to your own hair care needs. By delving into reviews that align with your hair profile, you can make more informed decisions about the potential effectiveness of the product for your unique circumstances.

Consider Your Routine

Select a hair growth oil that seamlessly integrates into your current hair care regimen. Verify that the chosen oil complements and harmonizes with your existing products and practices. This ensures a cohesive approach to your hair care routine, allowing the growth oil to work synergistically with other products without causing conflicts or disruptions.

Budget Considerations

Determine your budget for hair care products. There are effective hair growth oils available at various price points, so find one that aligns with your budget.

FAQ

1. How long does it take for a hair growth oil to show results?  

You might notice some hair growth after a few weeks of using hair oil. But, it could take several months to see the complete results of using the oil.

2. Do oils make your hair grow faster?

The dermatologist said that the idea that hair oil can make your hair grow is not true. Oils can make your hair healthier, but they don’t make it grow. So, if you believe that using hair oils can prevent hair loss and stimulate hair growth, that’s incorrect.

3. Which oil is best for hair growth and thickness for black hair?

Shea butter and argan oil work well to moisturize and strengthen black hair. It’s equally important to avoid products with sulfates, parabens, or other harmful chemicals as they can harm hair and impede growth.

4. Which oil recipe is best for hair growth and thickness?

Rosemary extract is known to encourage new hair growth, making it a valuable addition to any carrier oil. Ingredients: Half a teaspoon of Rosemary Oil and 3 tablespoons of your preferred oil, such as argan, jojoba, almond, olive, coconut, etc

Conclusion

There are many different hair growth oils available on the market, each with its own unique blend of ingredients and benefits. It is important to choose an oil that is right for your hair type and scalp condition. If you have sensitive skin, you should test the oil on a small area of your skin before applying it to your entire scalp. You should also be patient when using hair growth oils, as it may take several weeks or months to see results. In addition to using hair growth oil, there are other things you can do to promote healthy hair growth, such as eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, and managing stress.