In Japan and China, people have been using rice water for centuries to get gorgeous hair. It is good for any hair type and offers a range of benefits. Are you still skeptical about using rice water as you’re not sure of its effectiveness? Then in today’s blog, we will tell you how to use rice water spray for hair.
History of Rice Water Usage for Hair
There’s an interesting story about how people discovered the magical effect of applying rice water to hair. The Yao women residing the small village of Huangluo are known for their long and voluminous hair. They are famous all over the world as their average hair length is 6 feet!
Besides the incredible length, premature graying of hair is something that does not bother the Yao women. They do not have gray hair even in their 50s and 60s. When asked what’s the secret behind their beautiful manes, they revealed that they use fermented rice water for hair.
In recent times, product developers and beauty websites have all started promoting DIY rice water sprays. Many leading brands nowadays are using rice water as a common ingredient in hair masks, face serum, etc.
What Is Rice Water Spray and Why Is It Trending?
When you soak rice for some time or cook rice, have you noticed that the water that remains is starchy in nature? This is rice water which has 80-90% starch and it contains minerals and vitamins like vitamin B, antioxidants, amino acids, and vitamin E.
Why is everyone talking about rice water these days? That’s because it is extremely beneficial in treating multiple hair issues like hair loss, dullness, split ends, and dandruff. Scroll down to the next section to know about the uses of rice hair and get healthy hair at home.
Benefits of Using Rice Water Spray for Hair Growth
1. Shiny hair
Does your hair look dull and lifeless after you shampoo? It is a sign that your hair needs something extra. Rice water can act as a replenishing agent, replacing unappealing hair with shiny hair.
2. Untangled hair
It you have thick hair – detangling can take forever. To make detangling easy, you can make rice water for hair Due to the abundance of starch in it, it will increase the elasticity in your hair, and you can remove knots in a hassle-free way.
3. No dandruff
Need a simple solution for dandruff? Once again, rice water can come to your rescue. It has antifungal properties and can therefore, fight dandruff. Dandruff can make our scalp itchy and rice water will soothe itchy scalp as well.
4. Long hair
Have you been struggling to grow your hair? Then introduce rice water to your hair and you will be flaunting your knee-length hair soon. The magic ingredient that’s responsible for it is inositol and it is present in rice water. Hence, regular application will speed up hair growth.
5. Thick and strong hair
Hair thinning is a recurring problem, especially for people living in cities. Thanks to the presence of amino acids, rice water can strengthen hair and give you the desired volume. If your hair is weak and prone to breakage, spraying rice water will fix that.
6. Soft and smooth hair
Other than rice water hair growth, you can also achieve silky smooth hair. Flavonoid and phenolic compounds are there in rice water. That explains why rice water rinse will moisturize your hair so deeply and you won’t be able to stop touching it.
How to Make Rice Water Spray at Home: Step-by-Step Guide
You can take white or brown rice but organic will be the best.
- Begin with washing the rice. You can either rinse it directly in water or swish it around in a clean container. This step is crucial to eliminate dirt and dust.
- After you’ve washed it, take the rice into a big bowl or a mason jar. Then add water.
- Take a spoon and stir the rice occasionally. You will see that the water is cloudy, indicating that the nutrients from rice have dissolved into the water.
- Keep it aside for at least half an hour. 30 minutes will be enough for the minerals and vitamins to get mixed in the water.
- When you separate the rice from the water, the water should not be transparent but milky.
Note: Please do not waste the rice. You can make delicious fried rice or risotto instead of throwing it away.
How to Use Rice Water Spray for Hair Growth
Before you use rice water, wash hair with any shampoo of your choice. Next, spray the rice water evenly on hair and scalp, paying special attention to the hair follicles. Massage gently and leave it for 15-20 mins. After that, wash hair normally.
Every time, you can prepare the rice water freshly or store it in a spray bottle and refrigerate for long-term use.
Fermented Rice Water vs. Regular Rice Water: Which Is Better?
While some use rice water directly, others say that fermented rice water is more effective in treating hair problems. A 2021 review showed that when we ferment substances, the level of antioxidants in them rises. Antioxidants are necessary to combat skin and hair cell damage.
Fermenting rice is a simple process. Just soak rice and strain. Let the rice water ferment properly by leaving it to sit at room temperature for 48 hours. Before using, make sure you strain the water to remove dust and dirt particles.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Rice Water Spray
- Using rice water without straining the rice is a mistake as the impurities present might irritate your scalp.
- You cannot leave the rice water on your hair/ scalp. You must wash thoroughly.
- Additionally, avoid spraying rice water to hair when it’s dry. Hair should be slightly damp to absorb the rice water.
Is Rice Water Ideal for High Porosity Hair?
If you have high porosity hair, rice water should be your go-to product. As your hair cannot retain moisture and rice water is high in protein, it can be your hair’s best friend. It will nourish your hair, strengthen it, and fill the gaps in your hair cuticles. However, for the best results, use in moderation.
The Bottom Line
So, now you know that pampering your precious hair need not be expensive. Then what are you waiting for? Start making DIY hair masks with rice water and to nourish dry hair and promote hair growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How Long to Leave Rice Water Spray on Hair?
As per dermatologists, rice water spray can be left on the hair and scalp for 15-20 minutes. After that, rinse it thoroughly as leaving it for a longer duration can lead to protein overload.
Q. Who Should Use Rice Water Spray?
Anybody can use rice water spray for hair care. However, it is highly recommended to people with damaged hair and frizzy hair. People with oily hair should also apply rice water spray as it will get rid of excess oil from the scalp.
