Can rice water rinses prevent hair breakage?
Does rice water help your hair grow?
What are the benefits of using rice water for natural hair?
In short, rice water is the starchy water obtained by draining boiled rice.
To make your rice water, we recommend cooking rice in a pot of boiling water according to the cooking instructions on the package.
Remove the rice, and you’re done. This process creates what some people call “rice water hair milk.”
Brief History of Using Rice Water for Hair Growth
There is a town in China called the Huangluo Yao Village, where the Red Yao tribe currently lives. The village is commonly referred to as the “Land of Rapunzel’s” because many of the women who live in the Huangluo Yao Village are known for having long beautiful hair.
This long hair village was even referenced by the Guinness Book of World Records. So, what is their secret? The women who live in the village wash their hair with rice water.
Hundreds of years ago, women from Japan were known for their beautiful long hair, too. The interesting thing about it is that they had something in common with the women of the Red Yao tribe, they were also using rice water to wash their hair.
While it is something that occurred centuries ago, it is a tradition that has since been passed on to different generations.
As time has passed and technology has advanced, more people from areas all around the world have been able to research and learn about the hair care practices of different cultures, including the use of rice water.
So, are there benefits to using rice water for hair growth, breakage, as a hair spray, or as a hair rinse?
There is a fair amount of anecdotal evidence claiming numerous benefits to using rice water, including before and after photos. Although, there isn’t much reliable scientific evidence.
Most beauty bloggers writing about this topic reference an article from the International Journal of Cosmetic Science. Although, I’m not sure that the article can be reliably used as a standalone source.
The article references hair care techniques from the Heian period. In Japanese history, the Heian period occurred during the years 794-1185.
Due to the age of the study, it’s unlikely that the study used modern scientific controls focused on an independent variable. Consequently, this study is most likely an anecdotal report, rather than an experiment conducted in a controlled test environment.
For example, during the Heian time, many women combed their hair each day using Yu-Su-Ru (i.e., rice water). The thought was that rice water would reduce hair breakage and increase elasticity.
So, does rice water increase elasticity and reduced friction when you’re combing your hair?
The article from the International Journal of Cosmetic Science would lead you to believe that rice water can do these things. Although the article doesn’t mention that scientists conducted controlled experiments, it merely refers to practices of Japanese people from the Heian period.
So it’s likely that they’ve found some form of evidence, like written text from the Heian period.
So, does that mean that rice water is not useful for natural hair?
For example, you will find several women that claim castor oil encourages hair growth or regrowth of thinning hair edges.
The problem is there is no scientific evidence supporting this castor oil claim, so we can only use anecdotal evidence.
Anecdotes from Asia suggests a rice water hair rinse, including fermented rice water, gives the hair strength and elasticity. Since this can’t be proven, our guidance is that you can try if you’re interested, but it may or may not work for your hair.
It’s worth mentioning that rice water rinses aren’t an exclusive solution limited to those on the continent of Asia, even though the techniques were originated and were heavily used during the Heian period.
From the studies we have seen, all hair types are basically the same structurally, including African, European, and Asian hair types.
Although, there are differences between hair types. Some hair types are straight, wavy, curly or kinky. In general, all hair types have a common structure with the cortex surrounded by a cuticle layer.
Ultimately, whatever effects a rice water rinse has on one hair type, it’s likely to produce similar results on another hair type, including natural hair.
So, what is rice water? It’s actually pretty simple. If you boil rice as per usual, the milky water that the boiled rice produces is rice water. You can use white, brown, jasmine, basmati or any other type of rice for most recipes.
Finally, is rice water good for your hair? I think so, but I don’t really know (honestly). Many people referenced the study that we’ve linked to in this article as evidence.
Although the reality is that even though this study was published in 2010, it references hair care practices that occurred during the Heian Period in Japan.
My understanding is that the Heian Period occurred during 794-1185 BC. I’d like to see a more recent set of scientific studies to substantiate the results of rice water.
At any rate, there doesn’t appear to be any reason not to use the rinse. I recommend giving it a try. If you like the way it makes your hair look and feel, keep using it.
Lidd Dials says
Hi, do you know how the left over rice water should be stored and for how long? Thanks
Shawneequa says
One week in the refrigerator
SNO says
If you’re fermenting, there’s no need to do over 24hrs. If you’re storing excess, unused rice water, it will start to stink so it’s best to just create a fresh batch each time.
Kira says
Thanks Sno!
Princess21 says
I make huge batches, then to continue to make one batch for each time I want to do the rinse. As long as you remove the rice and store it in the refrigerator it will not ferment. Add few drops of essentail oils like rosemary, sweet orange or lavender. This removes pungent smell. But it will definitely keep as long as you refrigerate.
Connie says
Will rice water work for white peoples hair
Wendy says
Did it work for your hair I am white to
Emma says
It worked for Chinese and Indian women, (if it worked at all) so it obviously works for white people too. I am white, btw.
raquel says
Indians and Chinese are not the same as white—the hair types/ thickness and shaft diameter aren’t even similar, lol. But rice water effectiveness depends on the individual and how receptive the hair strands are to the amino acids present. It doesn’t hurt to try it for a small period of time.
Zah says
Lol
Zah says
Def not the same
Reace says
Hair differs based on genetics, however it is made up of the same protein – keratin. Fundamental practices will have similar effects at the molecular level.
D says
Chinese and Indian people have much nicer hair than white people so it may or may not.
Kaylee says
“D says Chinese and Indian people have much nicer hair than white people so it may or may not.”
I wouldn’t say anyone has nicer hair than anyone else, it just depends on your preference. I prefer very curly hair and I also like fine hair. This would leave out coarse and/or straight hair. Everyone has their own preferences.
Carol says
The hair type may not be the same between diffrent races but what makes up hair is the same. The article says as much of you bothered reading it.
Tana Fedric says
I have used it one time and the next time I washed my hair, I had huge amounts if hair loss. I had probably 3-4 times as much hair loss when I put the condition in. I am losing my hair anyway and this scared me really bad. Now I am afraid to use the rice water. I am caucasian/white/anglo. 95% of the comments and demonstrations I have seen are African or Asian hair. Is this a safe practice for anglo hair?? This is scary, I don’t want to be bald.
Chazidy Bowman says
I mean I’m African American and I am using it. My hair and Indian hair, as well as Asian hair, are totally different. I dont really think it is an issue.
Laila says
Anyone know if you should wash the rice first or not? Thanks
Erica says
Yes rinse the rice first to wash out any dirt or debris.
Qi says
I would suggest washing it first. Especially if it’s not organic. I’ve heard organic is the best one to use because it doesn’t have the chemicals in it that the regular rice does. But long story short try to get organic rice it’s better for your hair.
Niyah says
I’ve been using it for the past 4months. I am African American and one thing that stood out is the fact it turned my hair jet black my first time trying it, so I use it as a natural rinse. Also, INSTANTLY my hair strengthened and I barely had 10 strands of hair in my comb/brush. Haven’t straightened it yet, but I have a good 2 inches of new growth.
Bren says
What do you mean, it turned your hair black? Was your hair gray?
TIA
Marsha says
Nia,
I have been using rice water for about 3 months now. Like you, I noticed my hair stopped shedding. Before I started using it, when I would comb or pick out my hair I ALWAYS had a palm full of hair and my hair was thinning badly. (thinning hair runs in my family) however, this has been a Godsend. It has been the only thing that I have tried that has actually worked to strengthen my hair. I love it.
Rebekah says
How often are you ladies using the rice water? Do you just rinse with it or leave it in? I see so many different ways to use it. Thanks so much for info!!
Vishakha says
Hey did you use fermented one or regular one ?
Britt says
Do you boil the water first? How many times do you use rice water?
Damienne Lansdorf says
Have you used it continuously for 4 months?
mayaNs says
i used rice water twice and the result was bad my hair is shedding amd now i have bald edges dunno what to do
any help please
Monisa says
Hi! I’m sorry that happened to you! Did you wash it out? Did you deep condition afterwards?
I had a rice water mini disaster too. But I realized that I was using it incorrectly. So now when I use it I don’t leave it on too long. Half hour tops. Once per week. I condition immediately. And through out the day I spritz with water and moisturize with good old Dax grease.
My hair is relaxed but that spritzing is still necessary. At least for me. It prevents the dryness.
Monisa says
Oh! I also put organic honey in my shampoo and conditioner!
Caitlin says
Don’t boil the water, as you boil out the nutrients in the rice. Let it ferment at room temp for 24-48 hours. When used as applied, dilute the water as its used as a protein treatment, and can be overly potent, which can cause dry hair. Also Always use moisture with any protein/strengthening hair treatment.
Tori says
Rice water can be stored up to 1 week.
Also, When I use the rice water I would add a essential oil like lavender oil or tea tree oil to give it a nice smell. I do the rice water rinse once a week. And, so far it changed my hair texture, my hair is alot more manageable and, soft. My hair is a 4c type I definitely recommend it. If your not sure research more and look at youtube videos.
Bibi says
Do you have to wash your hair first
Bibi says
Do you have to wash your hair first?
Bernette says
I will like to know of products that will grow my 4a 4b and 4c natural hair
Essie says
The key to longer natural hair(especially type 4 hair) is to RETAIN the length and clean the scalp, that way, as hair grows, nothing should clog hair follicles, and putting nourishing conditioners and sealing oils (like grapeseed and castor) on HAIR (NOT SCALP) will protect the cuticles and help minimize split ends. Penetrating oils – like coconut and avocado oil – are good for the scalp.
Erica says
Putting oil on your hair and keeping it isnt a good idea it will clog your pores. Sticking to natural mousturizers for hair will work but you have to do trial and error tests to find what works for you. Putting oil in yohr hair actually breaks your face out and clogs your pores because the hair follicles grow through the scalp with the sebum from the sebaceous gland which is where oil is produced. If you add too much oil you will make your hair dirty faster. I only put oils like morrocoan oil in my hair if I am straightening my curls which causes excessive drying and damage to my hair follicles.
Lenae says
If your scalp is healthy and has a good flow of sebum oozing out of it, then there is no need to put any type of oil on it. The added oil would only prove to be too much for the already sebum lubricated scalp and will most likely cause itching or other problems scalp issues. Oil on your hair? Maybe. It depends on your individual hair and its needs.
La Donna says
Afro Textured hair needs moisturizers and oil. Sebum does not always travel to the ends of Afro textured hair like it does on straight hair. Because of this Afro textured hair is more prone to dryness. So this type of hear needs more moisturizing in addition to natural sebum.
Kee says
@Lenae. Please remember there is no one size fit all. Unfortunately most black people’s hair or Afro textured hair the oil doesn’t reach the shaft and this is what constantly leads to breakage and makes it harder to attain or maintain long hair. Asians and white Europeans however are able to maintain longer lengths because the shaft is constantly nourished by natural oils. Most Afro textured hair is dry because this isn’t the case with most people of African decent.
Michelle says
I have 4c low porosity hair, and cradle cap. Castor oil 100% eliminates my cradle cap, grows my hair, and I have strong skin otherwise, so I never break out. I can’t use all those moisturizers and protein creams like Shea butter.
So I believe, it firmly depends on the person, and the balance between their own hair, and their own skin.
Kee says
Where did it say to put the oil on the scalp? The writer distinctly said not on the scalp. Hair strands have no pores. The oil should be used on the hair shaft to lock in moisture. Not on the scalp.
Alicia says
I have heard to store it in refrigerator for up to a week
Kiyoshi says
Shouldn’t store it in the refrigerator it will stop the fermentation process
Nádia says
you should ferment for at least 24 hours then store on the fridge. before use you have to delute with warm water
Si'mantra says
Im a natural that has used rice water and yes the benefits are amazing and by reducing hair breakage and increase elasticity for me has allowed my hair to increase and I notice the growth, but you have balanc with moisture cause if the protein in the treatment can leave the hair dry and hard and moisture is a necessity.
niha says
my hair has become extremely dry after using it what can i do ?
Challais McDonald says
Deep Condition then follow up with Rice Water and rinse thoroughly.
Sarah says
can i use hair dryer to dry my hair after using rice water or I walk in the sun for it to dry naturally.
Aradhya says
Don’t dry it totally as, I had did some researches that in using these rinses we should not let it dry totally as it will loose moisture… But then again it is needed to be dried in order to gain its nutrients. So you dry it under the sun or dry ur hair naturally..
Ashley says
Test the porosity of your hair. If you have low porosity.. rice water or any protein treatments are not for you
Anonymous says
Protein treatment is also good for some low porosity hair like mine. Also we have different types of protein treatment. We have heavy protein, mild treatment and light protein. Our hair is made up of 95% protein and protein is important to the hair to strengthen and prevent breakage for those that are protein sensitive a light protein is preferable or the use of strengthenibgbteas and oils is also good.
Dena says
How do you test for porosity?
Kira says
Let’s answer a few basic hair questions:
Do you find that your hair is color resistant?
Did or does your hair reject chemical services?
Have you noticed that product just sits on your strands and does not absorb, ever?
Is your hair hard to wet or saturate with water?
Have you tried the float test and your hair is still floating?
If you have answered yes to any of the questions, your hair is on the scale of low porosity.
I always remember a single hair strand can have varied levels of porosity on it: newer hair on the lower end and oldest part of the strand tends to have a higher porosity.
Star says
Use cocunut oil to keep hair and scalp moisturized
Nas says
But beware since to my knowledge coconut oil has also got protein in it and some people’s hair is more sensitive to that. Coconut oil doesn’t work for some people
Natyisha says
Right. Coconut oil does not work well with my hair… when I big chopped it helped… but as my hair grew longer my hair didnt benefit…
sara says
After shampooing, I towel dry my hair a bit or sometimes completely, then rinse with the rice water solution, then put my moisturizing conditioner or deep conditioner on top of it.
So, far no problem with any dryness or the mysterious protein problem. Hair is made up of protein. I think, The problem is buildup from not clarifying the hair often enough. A lot of people pike on products, but never detox the hair, which leads to breakage.
jaci says
what do you mean problem from buildup from clarifying the hair is often enough. this means that it lead to end breakage.
Ange says
Try adding oil into the mixture.
Lilly says
For my 3C curly hair I prepoo, shampoo, fermented rice water rinse, then apply a deep conditioner like you would do after a protein treatment. Then I condition. To style hair, apply rose water and aloe spray, a leave in conditioner then your butter or custard styling product. Your hair will look amazing.
Sophia Buie says
sounds like a plan!! Thx! So aloe juice will work? What do you suggest?
Takhya says
Hey! I’m A Natural As Well.. How Long Did It Take For You To Notice Growth?
Mona says
Is it necessary to wash your hair first
Shawneequa says
The Yao Chinese women use it as their shampoo so I would think yes, provided your hair isn’t filled with lots of hair product. I was mines first but i use hair gel, hair butter/ creams, and hair oil daily.
Sarah says
No, it doesn’t matter….
liz says
can the rice water be used daily
Zalense says
Yes, you can if u want or or if it is needed
RMJohnson says
It depends on your hair type. I use it only once a week because daily use makes my hair dry and brittle. You have to do what is best for you.
Cecilia says
Can I use rice water every single day please?
Yolanda says
It is not advised to use it daily because the protein can build up on your hair. Once a week is fine, definitely not every day.
M.Davis says
Considering how much arsenic is in rice and therefore in the water that will be used for the rinse I wonder if potentially poisoning yourself with such a carsongenic substance is worth quicker hair growth
Freda says
Arsenic in rice????? Why isn’t most of the population dead, considering the number of people that eat rice.
Ayu says
The arsenic can mostly/completely(?) be removed via rinsing it properly before putting it in. It’s not a lethal dose anyway, but it’s most definitely not safe to just cronch on it straight from the bag and regularly consuming it is bound to do /some/ damage. Asian countries generally know their rice and don’t just chuck it in a pot like more Western countries seem to love doing lol
Lena says
Soak rice and the rinse before consuming to remove 80% of any chemicals on the rice, including arsenic. For perspective, there is much more arsenic in chicken.
Zoey says
Buy organic rice, is not that expensive.
Heather says
It doesn’t matter if it’s organic or not. Rice grows in bogs of water. Since it’s submerged, the arsenic from the soil soaks in much more readily than with other crops. Organic wouldn’t change that as it’s still grown the same way and the arsenic comes from the soil. It’s already present in soil
Mw says
After a week should I throw it out
Lez says
If it is required for you
Luz Y Ayende says
I had a boy cut hair style I started using the banana mask since August 2017 and my hair has grown.
1 Banana
2 tbsp. Castor oil
2 tbsp. Olive oil
2 tbsp. Coconut oil
2 tbsp. Honey
1/2 of Garlic
Mixed in a blender put all over your hair massage into scalp put a plastic cap leave on for 1 to 2 hour then wash off.
Beautinsuccess says
Oh yeah the garlic would definitely grow it using that.
Kari says
Wash out with shampoo or water also can I use conditioner afterwards too.
Mjay says
How often should you do this banana mask for hair growth in 4c hair?
Neze says
Did you use garlic powder or real garlic
Clara Grayer says
I have. Even using rice water now for three months,I must say my hair has grown in fuller,thick in texture,my edges has changed a lot no longer thin,what so amazing is—my hair looks thicker
Nathalie Bermudez says
Was your hair thin to begin with?
Clara Grayer says
My hair has grown in the last four months thicker fuller no longer have thinner ages I was very skeptical but now my hair is much thicker and fuller than ever I am 68 years old and my hair is thicker shinier and now I’m I will start using the rice water twice a week it does work I wish I could send you a picture
Sakshi Sharma says
how you use it exactly
Judy says
Why rice water bring my hair out what am doing wrong please reply back ASP
Ms. Lynn says
I watched alot of people on Youtube concerning this rice water rinse. I discovered that it is Definitely BEST if you use SULFATE FREE shampoo and conditioner on your hair. I bought this Shampoo and Conditioner called HAIR FOOD at $10 each at Target and Walmart. ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT, AFTER SHAMPOOING my hair I used the fermented rice AND conditioner, left covered on my head for 30 minutes and simply washed it out. My hair was very soft and manageable. You definitely have to use a good deep conditioner and this will work for your hair!! Good Luck
tt says
Do you deep condition after or before the rice rinse? I deep condition with a thermal heating cap. That would not work well with the technique of rice water and then deep conditioner on top right?
Snigdha says
May be using rice water firstly it is excluding all the damaged hair or may be nourishing your hair in a way
Or, the way u use it may be wrong for your hair type, pattern etc.. Or may be u r using artificial products if you r using rice water even….
Barbara says
I rinse my hair twice a week with rice water since Jan 2018, I haven’t seen any growth.??????
Cf says
Barbara, you should do it this way, of the two times you wash a week, rinse your hair first! when your is completely dry and then wear a cover over it, and then rinse out at the appropriate time. Then for the other/second wash in the week, just use a mild soap for the wash.
Kathy says
I have used rice water in a pass and my hair fell out. I am bald on top and thinner. I discovered that I am protein sensitive and this treatment is not for everyone, and make sure that you rinse it out completely and do a deep conditioner after. People are telling you to leave it in and you don’t have to do a deep condition after, my advice is rinse out completely.
Joanna says
Yup rice water is not for everyone. My hair is thinning out as well, alot of breakage. I only used it twice and stopped completely after noticing the difference. Now trying to reverse the damage. People please dont believe everything you see especially since its not proven. Hope this helps.
Karen says
It is true that a person should NOT believe everything they see or hear, however this IS not the case. This is about what works for YOUR hair type. I CAN’T use many name brand store products on MY hair so I am open to home remedies. I’ve used rice water on my hair for a month now AND it works on MY hair type. Do what works for YOUR hair type. First do the work to find out what specifically works for your hair type. Whether store bought or home made. And be consistent with YOUR hair care regimen.
Litsy says
Actually in a video interview with a Yao woman, the Yao woman was constantly telling the host to wash it all out of her hair. That it’s not good to leave it in.
Zoey Johnson says
what kind of rice do you use? Also I’ve heard that boiling the rice takes out the natural minerals in it that help your hair grow. Is this true?
Lenora says
This is exactly what I have been trying to figure out, cant wait until someone answers your questions
Jane says
You can use different kinds of rice tbh
Natural7ly says
When you boil the rice the minerals are in the water. You are putting that in your hair. They don’t “disappear”
Nekky says
Exactly! The nutrients left the rice and entered the water.
Heather says
Evaporation.
Keke says
Use organic rice. And no do not boil it let it sit at room temperature for 12-24hrs
Kira says
Hi Zoey- thank you for your comment!
Snigdha says
Yes, bcuz some minerals or say enzymes which act on our hair scalp gets deteriorated or burnt on heating As all the enzymes are not that heat resistant.
So fermented rice water is much better but again if you don’t have time then you can use boiled rice water…….
Char says
The minerals may be taken out of the rice but they go directly into your water
Brie says
When you make rice water you have to leave it overnight for 12 to 24 hours do not I repeat you do not boil the rice water because it takes out all the protein from the rice and it causes you to go bald and when it is the next day for you to go and wash your hair with the rice water use sulfate free shampoo and conditioner first cuz when you put the rice water before you wash your hair it will not help your hair grow and it will cause you to lose hair or get product build-up and make your hair become sensitive after you wash your hair with sulfate free shampoo and conditioner you add the rice water and leave it in your hair for 30 to 60 minutes and the longer you leave it in your hair you will see results from the rice water so I advise you to leave it in your hair for an hour but if you have sensitive hair just leave it for 30 minutes and when you leave it for that long put a shower cap on your hair even if its for 30 minutes you leave it in your hair still put a shower cap so nothing leaks out and when an hour passes by or when 30 minutes passes by take it off and go right back in the shower or sink however u wash your hair and wash all the rice water out your hair with shampoo and deep conditioner that doesn’t contain any sulfate in neither one of them and after you wash your hair with sulfate-free conditioner and shampoo you can go back to putting whatever moisturizer in your hair and style back in your hair you’re not supposed to use it every single day or every single week if you’re African-American you’re only supposed to use it twice a week if your Caucasian you’re supposed to use it twice a week or once a week and if you use it every single day it is going to build protein build-up and that’s not going to help your hair grow at all it will cause your hair to get thinner and get weaker that at the point your hair will start falling out and you will get baldall at sertain parts of your head so only use this twice a week for African American woman and twice or once a week for Caucasian woman so if you use this every single day and the doctors tell you that you have protein build-up it’s probably cuz you use this every single day or every single week and if your hair starts to fall out and you get a bald spot it’s probably because you use it way too much
Tina says
Strange, since the two women boil the rice water after leaving it for a week. They add orange peel and other ingredient.
Their hair is long and healthy.
De says
Boiling the rice takes the protein from the rice? And where may i ask does it go; in the air? You know that you have written a lot of questionable things with out any full stops, comas, new paragraphs, etc.
Anyway, i guess everyone is entitled to their opinions :+)
D. Krys says
Assuming that everyone (hopefully) sits their rice in water BEFORE cooking, it would probably be best to use that water. Once it has been “cleaned” the rice you are boiling probably doesn’t have the same amount of protein. I guess it would be best to try both ways and see what works for you. Logically speaking though, you should sit it in a bowl of water for 12-24hrs. That just makes more sense.
Juli says
I don’t know if this is what happens, but from what I know of chemistry heat changes chemical structures.
Ray says
Amen
Lauren says
Can anyone tell me if I can use the rice water with a steamer? Or rinse it out then put the sulfate free conditioner then sit under the steamer? Or just not use the steamer at all?
Dannik says
I watched a youtube video and the girl raved about how rice water and a steamer worked wonders for her hair! I’ve just been doing fermented rice water with a conditioning cap, but I’m going to try it with the steamer next time.
Kira says
Hi Lauren-
I wouldn’t suggest using it in a device as rice water that’s left behind can mold in the device.
Kira
Tezra says
My big sister recommended that I try biotin that product had my hair growing like miracle grow unfortunately I stop buying it .Now she told me about this rice rinse I am natural hair woman so I looking for anything that natural and keep my hair growing .I know in the summer my grown the fastest and I need to know what type of rice to use on my hair I use tea tree for my scalp my edges and coconut for my roots I use to use Jamaican black castor oil but my grocery store stop selling it so .That helps with hair growth too but it very heavy so I stop using it .So ultimately I want to know what the right rice to use for this growth .
Karen says
You should not use a protein on your hair more than once a week. There is also no reason to leave it longer than 15 min because the carbohydrate in it that benefits your hair only needs 15 min to penetrate, after that rinse it out. The beneficial parts of the rice water stay in your hairs after you rinse. You want to stop the build up in your hair by adding some shikaki powder or amla powder to your rice water or fermented rice water because those are natural clarifying herbs as well as conditioning. You can add both of you want to. If you have henna in your hair be careful not to use too much amla powder as it can darken the hennaed hair. On hair the hasn’t been colored with henna it won’t affect the color. You don’t need to shampoo your hair as rice has natural saponins it that cleanse your hair. Shikaki is also a gentle cleanser so washing with shampoo afterwards will just strip all the good stuff you just did. The shikaki/ rice water mixture is a shampoo/ conditioner/ tonic all in one. Using anything else after or before just dries your hair out too much. Remember! No silicones, parabens or sulfates in your hair will make a huge difference in your overall hair health and that in turn encourages hair growth.
Karen says
I forgot to say… everyone and everyone’s hair is different so experiment, you’ll be surprised that what works great for you may be terrible for someone else who seems to have hair exactly like yours. If you follow basic rules i.e. protein no more than once a week, no silicone or sulfates etc. then you’re doing yourself a favor already. Other things that help right away are silk pillow slips, natural bamboo pegged hair brushes and not putting your hair up in rubber bands (scrunchies and gentle hair holders are much less damaging) and only loosely pulling hair back will also help your hair tremendously.
Rebecca says
Hi i redond my hair so isit ok if i use this rice water on it? What will happen?
karen says
Hi Rebecca, I would ask your hair stylist about that one.
Rebecca says
Rebond sorry
Xyz says
What if we don’t rinse with plain water after washing with rice water?
karen says
Hi xyz, you can go without rinsing it’ll add more volume but if you’re just looking for the benefits of the rice water in terms of taking the advantage of the vitamins and the starches on your hair then you don’t need to leave it on longer than 15min and rinsing doesn’t matter because all the good stuff in the rice water won’t wash away once it has sat on your hair for 15min.
Rukia says
If you wash your hair with a shampoo with sulfate in it will it ruin the hair?
karen says
Hi Rukia, you should never use shampoo with sulfates in it it’s damaging to your hair, roots, and scalp and there’s no benefit to using sulfates. You also want to steer clear of any shampoo or conditioner with parabens (linked to breast cancer) or silicones. If you want the best hair you can get use herb powders mixed with water to wash and condition all in one mix and then use the rice water rinse at the end. You’ll have super shiny hair that will look like you doubled the thickness overnight. Good herbs to start with are shikaki, amla, aloe vera (powdered), rose petal powder. There are a ton more that are incredible for improving your hair growth hair fall, dandruff, itchy scalp, baldness, premature graying, split ends, brittle hair. That doesn’t even count all the skin benefits of these herbal powders. The list goes on and on. You’d find huge differences in the health of your hair while going 100% organic, chemical free, no binders, no fillers etc only pure dried and powdered plant.
Beautinsuccess says
I agree with Karen
Dena says
Hi Karen
Which herbs are best for premature graying?
Tina says
Hi Karen where would I find these herbs shikaki, amla, aloe vera (powdered), rose petal powder? Thank you
Sarabi says
You can try Bulk Apothecary and Amazon! :) You may even be able to find amla in your local Indian/South Asian store, if you have one.
Farah says
I used rice water twice and it is leaving my hair very very dry, I shampoo and the use rice water and leave it for 5 mins and wash it out?I haven’t noticed any change growth wise but dryness issue? Any recommendations? Should I try fermented rice water? Or the dryness is an indicator, it is not suiting my hair?
Thanks
Mickey says
Rice water does make your hair dry and hard. You have to keep it moisturized with leave in conditioner and natural hair oils.
Bettie says
Can castor work as the natural oils mentioned. First timer on this rice water thing. African. Thank you
Ms. Lynn says
You have to use a sulfate free shampoo. It defeats the purpose in my opinion, I just started using this rice water rinse, I bought a sulfate free shampoo and conditioner called HAIR FOOD, found at Target and Walmart for $10 each. My hair is so soft, no breakage. I mix the conditioner and rice water together and cover my head with a shower cap for 30 minutes. Silky smooth results.
Felici Harris says
Are you saying you mix the conditioner into the rice wster or do you add the conditiner to your hair after you have applied the RW?
Catherine says
Yes, she mixed them together.
Nicki says
Drink alot of water. Wash hair with rice water twice a week. Apply castor oil on the hair ends and edges twice a week. Apply coconut oil twice a week. Moisturise once a week. Eat healthy and you good to go.
Marissa says
Apply coconut oil to where? Hair or Scalp? And what is your moisturize routine?
Anndrea Lawson says
I get my hair in box braids all the time do you think it will work if I do the rice water Everytime I take my braids down and my wash ?
ak says
There’s a village in China (Huangluo) where the women have hair up to 6ft long – they use rice water exclusively to wash their hair (no shampoo) and only rinse with cold water, no matter what the season.
Even in their 70’s and 80’s, there’s not a strand of grey hair between them.
Here’s at least one video link about them, but there are others (if I’m allowed to put it here, if not, just do a search in youtube for ‘China’s Village of Real-Life Rapunzels’).
KNK says
I am caucasian. Going on 40 but who’s counting. .. Hair is thin, straight/wavy/spiral curls in that order from top of my head to the nape of my neck, kind of chin length, partially grey, and it grows slowly since childhood. Baby hairs on the hairline to the widow’s peaks never grow longer than an inch. Cauc-fro when it’s humid. It white girl worst nightmare kind of hair. About 2 weeks ago I started using purple organic rice grown in the USA (amazon.com) soaked for 2 days, about 2x/week for about 1hr then rinsing. Organic because of the arsenic, purple figuring maybe there would be anti-brass properties, and USA to support USA farms. I’ll let you know in a few months how it goes for me. Kind of skeptical because of the dumpster fire hair I’m working with, but why not give it a whirl. More to follow. ..
ZBA says
I started using rice water on my permed/relaxed hair about 3 weeks ago and I’ve tried it just twice..my hair seems thicker now but anytime I use it,my hair seems hard…how come? Is it bad??
Tamera says
Waah it out completely and use only 1x a week
Nina says
It’s protein build up, it causes brittle hair. Use a baby conditioner. Regular deep conditioner has protein in it to repair hair. Castor oil on ends to prevent split ends and soybean oil on hair afterwards, it known to penetrate the shaft to moisturize.
Ms. Lynn says
I read through these comments and so many people are saying their hair is hard, I keep leaving comments pertaining to the same exact thing. SULFATE FREE SHAMPOO and CONDITIONER makes a HUGE differnce. HAIR FOOD can be found at TARGET and WALMART for ten bucks. Mix the conditioner with the rice water, cover your head with a plastic cap for 30 minutes. Rinse well and the results are silky smooth hair!!!
CF says
Dang do you work for hair food? It’s not the sulfates because people are experiencing the dryness only AFTER USING RICE WATER.
To the OP, there are deep conditioners out there that have no protein. Go to moorket .com and get her deep conditioner without protein that will offset the dryness from rice water.
Catherine says
I saw on YouTube where some people use a non protein moisturizing conditioner or treatment after, or together.
Kira says
Rice water is thought of as a type of protein treatment, so not to overload the hair with added protein, they are using a non protein moisturizing conditioner. Protein overload makes the hair brittle and hair.
Luchie says
I just weave my natural hair, is it avisable to use rice water on it
GAIL says
Before you weave up your hair condition your hair with using a plastic bag for 45-60 minutes then wash it out then using a shampoo after washing your hair pour the rice water over your hair with massaging and combing the rice water through your hair evenly after place a plastic bag over your hair for 60 minutes then rinse out, pat dry with using coconut oil especially on the ends of your hair
TAmera says
Hey everyone i was wondering can u store this rice water after use or do u have to boil it each time? I want to make a mixture and save it. Also, do u out this mainly on the strands or your scalp?
Ashley says
I advise EVERYONE to start a regimen of 20k-25k mcg of biotin and drink plenty of what and cowash weekly and low manipulation styles and it’ll grow. I just grew my hair evenly after a haircut 2 years ago. Also I use to have high porosity hair and now it’s low due to 2 years of vitamins and prep work and low manipulation styles
Gail says
I agree my hair has also grown from using the rice water once a month
Eladia says
Hi guys
Eladia says
I need to know wich conditioner cn I use on my hair I hs been using rosemary conditioner and cream but my hair I so dry tanks
Judy says
I am a blonde Caucasian with color treated hair.
I get it weaved with bleach every six weeks.
Will using fermented rice water affect the color?
Thanks,
Judy
J Smith says
Hello,
You have been very informative about “specifics” on Rice Water and how to use it after you make it. I heard about it years ago but just ignored it until I found Rice Water on You Tube and more women are using it for hair growth. I am elderly and African American. Last night I used my own that I made, rice water and found that my hair has changed and its not hard and fragile but soft and fluffy. I left it on for 15 minutes after washing and conditioning my hair. I rinsed it well with warm water and did not wash and condition my hair afterward. Is this regime okay without washing the hair after the rice water treatment. Please let me know when you have time. Thank you,
Kirsten Shannon says
It’s great that your hair doesn’t get hard, seems like your hair enjoys the concoction. I wouldn’t wash it out with shampoo.. but instead rinse it all out with water and if need be apply conditioner (I use conditioner because my hair gets hard after rice rinse)
Catherine says
Are you low porosity? I haven’t tried the rice water yet. I’m low porosity, and most naturals with low porosity hair noticed they don’t need protein often, or not at all. I was natural until the age of 18 and never used protein treatments, and I didn’t have issues at all. But, I did eat rice as much as Chinese and Japanese people do. I love rice! I guess I was getting enough of the nutrients internally.
Emma says
Does rice water affect hair dye
Valerie says
I have lo po 4c hair, not particularly sensitive to protein, infact I think my hair loves it. Was experiencing some breakage and excessive shedding using moisture only products until i revisited my anti breakage mask, milk and spritz from shea moisture. I think they has rice bran protein specifically and love the way they instantly make my hair feel stronger and decrease breakage.
So now i want to try rice water, fermented for 24 hrs not boiled, long grain, not organic and spritz my hair as a leave in every other night when I retwist my hair.
Wish me luck :)
Kira says
Good luck Valerie!
My hair loves protein also. All types of protein. I’m a mixture of 3c, 4a with a splash of 4b in the center and my porosity is normal. I haven’t tried that particular spritz from Shea Moisture. I can’t wait to hear your results- keep us posted!
Ajah says
Is rice water okay for low porosity hair?
Michelle says
I think most women that use this should ensure they have a highly penetrating deep conditioner so the hair doesnt get really dry. those with thicker/coarser hair should also probably add an oil and heat to the mix to ensure the hair softens after the treatment. As far as when you put it in the hair, if it was originally used as a shampoo, it makes sense that you should be able to add it to dry hair or use it as a rinse…but proteins layer on the hair and then penetrate the hair. if you hair naturally is dry, common sense can tell you, rice water, which sits on the hair, and then penetrates the hair, if not properly rinsed out, could contribute to dry hair. i do this about once a month, i spray in my dry dirty hair and let it sit 30 minutes, then i rinse my scalp and then add deep conditioner and sit for another 30 minutes. i have noticed my shedding is a lot less and i think my hair may be growing faster, bc its not shedding.
CF says
Best comment here.
Wow says
Can I spray my hair with rice water after shower and leave it like that without rinsing it with plain water?
Kira says
I have heard of women leaving the rice water in their hair without rinsing. However, I suggest rinsing because whatever nutrients that will absorb to the strand will absorb. Not rinsing doesn’t make more stick. Also, rinsing reduces your chances of bacteria or mold growing.
CF says
Listen, the Yao women use this as SHAMPOO! It is not to be left in. Would you leave shampoo in your hair and scalp? Also, if you normally need to condition after shampooing then condition after this. This shouldn’t be used as a final step for those with very dry hair. Wash, apply rice water, let it sit, rinse out, THEN deep condition.
Catherine says
Well put, and I totally agree.
Aaliyah says
Is it force that I wash the rice water out?
My hair is very short and I want it to go long n healthy
Kira says
Hi Aaliyah- I’d suggest rinsing it out. Keep in mind, leaving the rice water in your hair doesn’t suggest that it will make your hair grow longer.
Nae says
What do you do with the actual rice afterwards? Can you still use it to cook or do people throw it away? Cause that would just be a waste of money if people bought rice to do this method every week or twice a week to then throw the rice away.
Kylie-Anne says
You’ve only soaked and rinsed the rice, basically. This is often recommended anyway, to soften the rice before cooking.
I cook the rice the day I’ve done this, and the rice actually does come out nicer. Add a bit of lemon to it to whiten it, and it’s lovely.
So, you’re killing two birds with one stone!
Sally says
Hi,
I stopped relaxing 6 months ago and started gtting Keratin Treatment instead. I have come to realise due to the process of Keratin like washing it with a clarifying shampoo makes it tangle so much and I end up losing more hair than I did when I relaxed and also blowdrying it with no product after does not help. I gave it a chance and feel it is not worth the time and money for me. Because of so much hair breakage from the clarifying shampoo my hair keeps looking shorter and uneven length, it went from bra strap length to almost sholder length, I hate it and now I have to have a long bob cut to even it out. Is rice water high in protein, I won’t use it as I still have the keratin in my hair but I was planning not to have Keratin again and do the rice water rince instead. This way I can grow out my hair and be able to chop a lot quicker. I have invested in sulphate free shampoo but haven’t found a good conditioner or leave in. Please recommend.
Mary says
Rice water rinse RUINED my hair. Absolutely ruined it. My hair started this experiment at the middle of my back. I had already been on a sulfate-free hair cleansing routine for several years. My hair is now in jagged layers shoulder-length, and still breaking, even after a good trim to even the ends. I showed the damage to a stylist friend, told her about my experiment, and she said Asian hair has a triple layer cuticle. It is Not the same as Caucasian hair. (I am of Scandinavian descent, blonde, hazel eyes.) I am on biotin in hopes of helping my hair recover, but thus far, it hasn’t been able to stop the breakage. I have no idea how short my hair will be by the time this is all over. I think of my mid-back-length hair, and grieve my folly.
val says
Hi,
Can I use no organic rice on my hair?
Ray says
Can I use jamaican black castor oil or wild growth oil after trying rice water in my hair ?
eesplus says
Can the arsenic in rice get into your blood stream through your scalp? People are using this product on small children.
Manda19 says
Small children also are FED rice on the daily and it doesn’t harm them.
Zoey says
Buy organic rice
Dolly says
Can I use olive oil on my 4b 4c hair??
ace says
yes olive oil is great for my 4c hair its essential!
Kira says
You can, so I would suggest starting out with a little and see how you like it. With olive oil, it can sit on your hair strands and not absorb. So a little can go a long way.
Tonja Maben says
Then use organic rice
Pamela says
Do you use rice water on fine limp dry color weave hair? Would you recommend use of?
Manda19 says
I have my first rice water rinse sitting in my hair right now. I need to my hair to thicken, but I know I’ll probably have to go to the doctor to see how many follicles have stopped growing hair. My hair is a mess all the way around, as I abused my hair a lot when I was younger. Time to pay the piper I guess.
Roslyn says
I just started this rinse today. I permed my hair like I always do and burned it because I scratched it before the perm. That was about 4 weeks ago. My hair is growing back slowly. I hope this will help it grow thicker and faster. I will buy the suggested shampoo and conditioner from Walmart and hope all this will work. Thanks
Ingga says
Well the “Yao” women still exists and till this day continue to use “rice water”. But once the water is made they allow it too cool and add scented oils to get rid of the smelly and for moisture.
Ingga says
Natural scented oils of course
Jaeyu says
What does the fermentation do exactly? Does anybody know?
I’ve just quickly rinsed the rice, then soaked it for an hour in recently boiled filtered water, kept the water (removed, cooked and ate the rice) outside the fridge for 1-2 days and then put it in the fridge or freezer until I was ready to use it. I have done it 3 times now and my hair hasn’t felt much different afterwards, so I’m wondering if the fermentation part is the key, and if so, what is actually happening during that step (from a scientific point of view)?
TIA
J.A. says
Get a mason jar with about a cup of rice and fill it with water. Leave on the counter for 2 days. Then use.
Water23 says
The fermentation process adds more nutrients to the rice water and forms a nutrient called pitera which helps in hair growth and shedding. And also do not boil the water or else some nutrients will go away. Wash teh rice one time to get rid of impurities and then wash it one more time and that will the water you will use. Add some essential oil or the peels of a citrus fruit ( AKA lemon, lime, orange, grapefruit) to make it smell good if you want. Let it ferment for about 24 hours then apply on your hair and leave for 30-60 min before rinsing
J.A. says
I do the rice water rinse once a week. I notice my hair is softer, i can’t account for any growth and it’s been about 3 weeks since i’ve been doing it. I fermented the rice water for 48 hours. I clean my hair with a sulfate free shampoo. I pour the fermented rice water over my hair and massage it in. I put a plastic cap on and let it sit for about 15-20 minutes. I rinse it out and then Deep Condition with Aphogee Deep Conditioner i use a dryer with a cap for about 15 minutes then rinse out. I then moisturize once again with a Aloe Vera/Castor Oil/Jojoba Oil and Knot Today mix. I also spray the NuGro moisturizer on my hair. That’s my regimen.
Blessing says
Can the rice water stay in your hair atleast until the next time you wash it. Right now I washed my hair got out the shower and sprayed the ridge water in my hair then massaged it then put it in two French braids the next day it was a little hard so I thought oh maybe I didn’t put enough so I sprayed some more and put it in two French braids again and I’m looking at these comments and wondering to myself I feel like I’m going to get bald because I used it 2 times in a wk and I didn’t rinse it what do I do it’s still in my hair?? Pls respond
Folashade says
Is it advisable to use rice water for a kid, precisely a four year old kid
Ng'andwe Dorcas says
can I use rice water which is fermented for two weeks?
Gwen says
You should drink it, it became Sake by now :)
Miya says
Hello,
I have just done a protein treatment called BIO TANIX EXTREME. It’s a keratin treatment. I was wondering if you can still use rice water when using this sort of treatment too? I don’t want to undo the effects of the treatment by using rice water or overloading my hair with protein.
Thanks
Miya
Ana says
That sound amazing! So which one dis u use, cooked or fermented?
Avisha says
Hi try adding a a little coconut oil. Iv used this amazing concoction and my hair texture is smoother from the 3rd application it’s been 2 weeks and my hair is absolutely silky.
Mary says
what about the arsenic? Any long term health affects from soaking your scalp with it?
Lori says
I’m white, with very damaged blonde hair from over processing a few months ago. I’m 59. It’s growing out slowly, breakage, maybe two inches of new growth, dirty blonde with some gray. What I want is silver.
Anyway, I didn’t want to cut until there’s enough new growth to cut the old straw off. I decided to try rice water. I didn’t make it very strong. I use it on days I don’t wash my hair and leave it in until I do. I have it in a spray bottle and saturate my fine frizzy hair, and massage it into my scalp. I’ve only been doing this for a few days and I’m already amazed at how much softer, stronger, thicker, and smoother it feels. I can’t stop touching it, I kid you not.
Try it if you want… maybe it will work for you, maybe it won’t. I’m loving it.