Forget about expensive ampoules, exotic serums and shampoos that promise miracles, but end up leaving you with a bill and disappointment. The real miracle for your hair is hiding where you least expect it – in your kitchen. The solution is rice water for hair.
Why is rice water such a sought-after hair treatment? In a world where the beauty industry is launching a new “revolution in a bottle” every week, more and more people are turning to simple, tried-and-true solutions. One such secret has been revealed by the women of the people. Yao from Huangluo village in China – famous for their incredibly long and healthy hair, which often exceed 1.5 meters in length. Their trick? Fermented rice water, which has been used to care for hair for centuries - without silicones, without parabens and above all - without tricks.
And the best part? Rice water for hair requires nothing more than a cup of rice, some water, and a pinch of patience. You can make it at home, in your pajamas, while you're waiting for your tea to boil.
How to prepare rice water for hair?
You don't need a chemistry degree or lab equipment to make rice water. All you need is:
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- 150g rice (white, brown, basmati – whatever your heart desires)
- 6 cups of water
- Spray bottle or any storage container
There are three basic preparation methods, each with its own specifics:
1. Irrigation: First, rinse the rice well to remove any impurities. Then, one hour Soak in six cups of water. The water will slowly turn milky – this is a sign that the beneficial substances are being released from the rice. After an hour, strain the mixture and store the liquid in the refrigerator. It is good for about one week.
2. Fermentation: If you want a stronger effect (and don't mind the slightly pungent smell), soak the rice in water after washing it and cover the bowl with a thin cotton cloth. Let it stand. 48 hours at room temperature to allow the liquid to ferment. This method creates a more acidic, but also more effective, version of rice water. After two days, strain and store.
3. Cooking: The quickest way is to boil the rice in a large amount of water (the ratio remains 1:6), then strain the liquid and cool it. If you like to be efficient – this is your way.
Regardless of the method you choose, store the rice water in the refrigerator after cooling and you can use it for up to 7 days.
How and why should you pour rice on your hair?
The application process is simple, almost meditatively relaxing: first wash your hair with shampoo and – if desired – conditioner. Then, apply to clean hair apply rice water – best with a spray bottle, but there’s nothing wrong with simply pouring it over your head (especially if you’re at home and not in a hurry for a Zoom call). Leave it on for a few minutes – we recommend 3 to 5 minutes – and then rinse well with water.
The recommended frequency of use is twice a week, but if rice water doesn't smell too bad (fermented water can be... quite characterful), you can enjoy it more often.
What does rice water do for your hair?
Scientific research has confirmed what Yao women knew thousands of years ago. Rice water is rich in amino acids, vitamin E, vitamin B, antioxidants and – most importantly – with a substance called inositolAlthough it sounds like something you would find in a Marvel superhero lab, it is actually a carbohydrate that penetrates deep into the hair structure and repairs damage from the inside out.
Hair growth is the most well-known effect – regular use of rice water has been proven to stimulate the growth of new hair follicles and strengthens the existingHair becomes more elastic, less brittle and grows faster.
Reduction of damage and split ends is another of its superpowers – the proteins in the water fill in micro-damages in the hair fiber. In other words: rice water acts as a natural “repair compound” for your hair.
Frizz and unruly curls? Rice water acts as a natural conditioner that smooths the hair cuticle and creates a shiny, smooth finish. No varnish, no silicones, no weight.
And then there's more shine – that natural shine that can't be achieved with a filter. Rice water creates a thin protective layer around the hair, reflecting light and preventing the influence of external factors such as UV rays, pollution and heat.
But we must not forget either scalpRice water has antibacterial and antifungal effect, which means it can help with eliminating dandruff, soothes an itchy scalp and promotes a healthy environment for new hair growth.
Sounds simple? It is.
It's true that rice water isn't a luxurious, fragrant serum in a fancy package, but maybe that's why it works. It's not just another marketing ploy—it's a recipe that has survived the centuries and is now experiencing a well-deserved renaissance.
If you're ready to say "no" to harsh chemicals and "yes" to simple rituals that really work, rice water is the perfect place to start. And if in a few months someone tells you that your hair looks like something out of a commercial - just nod and remember rice. And Chinese women from villages where scissors are almost unknown.
