Ever wondered if the secret to luscious locks might be hiding in your kitchen? The age-old practice of using rice water to combat hair loss has deep roots in Asian culture, spanning thousands of years. Recently, this tradition has gained a modern twist, with Google searches on rice water and hair growth soaring in the past year. TikTok has also embraced the trend, with #ricewater videos amassing nearly a billion views. Even celebs like Kim Kardashian and Cardi B swear by its hair-boosting magic, and brands are jumping on the bandwagon, promoting rice water-infused products for hair enrichment, strengthening, and repair.
So, does this pantry remedy actually deliver on its promises? Let’s get the scoop from the experts.
Firstly, what is rice water?
It’s as straightforward as it sounds – water infused with the goodness of soaked rice. The idea behind using rice water for hair care is rooted in the belief that the starch in rice packs a punch of vitamins and minerals, promising to protect, tame, and promote hair growth, according to the University of Nebraska Medical Center.
To whip up your rice water potion, soak a cup of uncooked rice in a bowl with two or three cups of water for 30 minutes, then strain, as recommended by the experts. Stylist Rick Wellman suggests sticking to white rice to avoid any color mishaps on lighter hair. After your regular hair wash routine, dermatologist Joshua Zeichner suggests massaging the rice water into your hair, letting it work its magic for five to 10 minutes before rinsing and applying your usual conditioner. The key, experts say, is to treat rice water like a hair mask – not an everyday affair, but a supplement to your routine two or three times a week.
Now, the burning question: Does rice water truly promote hair growth? Well, the evidence leans more towards anecdotes than concrete research. Dr. Zeichner acknowledges the historical use of rice water in eastern medicine for thinning hair, attributing its effects to the high starch levels that coat the hair shaft, providing strength and hydration while minimizing split ends. A 2021 meta-analysis did show “promising” findings on rice’s impact on hair growth, but researchers emphasized the need for further studies. While a study on mice indicated that vitamin B8 in rice contributed to hair growth when taken orally, this hasn’t been replicated in human studies.
Is it a miracle cure?
Not quite, cautions Nebraska Medicine’s Dr. Matthew Stephany. However, if you’re free from skin conditions or scalp sensitivities, giving it a go probably won’t hurt – and you might even find it beneficial. Yet, it’s essential to note that the true benefits of rice water remain unproven.
Concerned about side effects?
Dr. Zeichner assures us that rice water is generally mild and safe for various skin and hair types. But, a word of caution: those with skin conditions like eczema should consult a dermatologist before diving in, ensuring they don’t add anything to their scalp that might cause irritation.
In the quest for fabulous hair, it seems rice water might offer a sprinkle of potential magic. Just remember, whether natural or synthetic, always tread lightly with what you put on your skin and hair.