Back
Mar 17, 2025
5 min
Srijita Biswas
Using rice water on hair is an ancient practice in Asian culture. Soaked or cooked rice water, which contains a high level of starch, is believed to add shine and support hair growth. Using rice water for hair is common amongst Chinese and Japanese communities and has recently gained widespread attention due to influencers and beauty experts online. Rice water, being a great source of amino acids, Vitamin B, antioxidants, and other nutrients, can revive weak and dull hair. Despite receiving praise across the internet, does rice water truly benefit hair? Can we use it worry-free?
Let’s break down the benefits of rice water for hair, along with the claims and studies supporting its application.
This starchy liquid is believed to be a wonderful ally for hair, as various studies and experiments support its hair-nourishing benefits. If you’re wondering how rice water can enhance your hair health, here are some key advantages:
Having shiny, frizz-free locks is every woman’s dream. To achieve it, use rice water for hair; packed with antioxidants and amino acids, rice water smoothens the outermost layer, i.e., the cuticle, and combats frizz effectively, leaving the locks silky, shiny, and naturally radiant.
Rice water is rich in amino acids and vitamin B7, which deeply penetrates the hair fibres to restore shine and nourishment. It not only revives dull hair but also repairs hair from within, enhancing strength and vitality. Regular use of rice water can leave hair feeling healthier and more resilient.
For centuries, the Japanese have used rice water post-shampoo, and it is often said that their secret to long, flowing hair is none other than rice water. Some studies even suggest that rice water contains phenols—antioxidant compounds that help protect cells from oxidative stress and may support hair growth. However, while it is frequently praised for its hair-nourishing benefits, scientific evidence remains limited.
For enhanced shine and healthy hair, regular application of rice water is suggested. Preparing this liquid is quite simple—it is merely the leftover water from boiled or soaked rice, which is rich in starch. Here’s how you can prepare rice water for hair:
There’s no rocket science to using rice water for hair. All you need to do is pour rice water in little quantity on nicely washed hair and give it a gentle massage. Next, leave it on for up to 20 minutes for better absorption. Lastly, rinse it off with a mild cleanser.
Homemade rice water is beneficial for locks and the scalp. Even though our market hosts ample products containing rice water, ranging from shampoo to conditioner to hair oil and others, it’s still advisable to use homemade rice water. As it doesn’t have added chemicals or additives, rice water is not likely to cause damage to most people. For those with sensitive scalps and treated hair, you need to conduct a patch test or consult with a specialist.
Consider using rice water for hair growth especially homemade ones that are free from chemicals, additives, or any other substances. Be extremely cautious if you have scalp inflammation, or atopic dermatitis, as using rice water may cause reaction due to high starch. If you have any hair concerns, consult with a hair specialist before applying the product.
1. How long do you leave rice water on your hair?
You cannot leave rice water on your hair overnight; it can do more harm than good. It is recommended to leave rice water on your scalp for not more than 20 minutes.
2. Can I use shampoo after rice water?
Yes, you can use shampoo after applying rice water to your hair, but it's usually recommended to rinse your hair with plain water first. Some prefer using rice water as a final rinse, while others use shampoo afterward to prevent buildup.
3. Can I apply rice water on oily water?
Yes, you can apply rice water to oily hair. But it’s best applied on neatly-washed hair to avoid greasy effect and better absorption.
Our team picks and curates content we think you will like. Opinions expressed within the content are the creator’s views and do not reflect the opinions and beliefs of the website or that of Parachute Advansed.
SHARE NOW
Explore the top 5 benefits of vitamin E for hair, including promoting scalp health, boosting growth, reducing greying, and improving hair quality. Learn how to add vitamin E to your routine for healthier, stronger hair.
Feb 23, 2023
10 mins
SHARE NOW
Experience the wonders of aloe vera for scalp health. Learn how aloe vera hair oil soothes, nourishes, and promotes a healthy scalp for stronger, shinier hair.
Feb 23, 2023
10 mins
SHARE NOW