Are you looking for a natural and affordable, yet highly effective way to boost hair growth? Rice water might be the secret you’ve been missing.
Used for centuries in Asian beauty routines, rice water is rich in amino acids, vitamins, and minerals that help strengthen hair, reduce breakage, and promote faster hair growth.
In this post, we’ll explore how to use rice water for hair growth, the benefits it offers, and simple steps to prepare it at home.
How To Use Rice Water For Hair Growth: Video Overview
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- Where exactly did this remedy came from?
- What would inspire someone to actually make rice water and add it to their hair?
Interestingly, the use of rice water to encourage hair growth has been practiced for many centuries in Asia. It’s only that social media has made it easier to share information these days. And that’s how the details about this age-old habit ended up becoming a modern trend.
The truth of the matter is that some communities in China and Japan have been using this starchy liquid to nourish their hair. In fact, one village in China called Huangluo appears in the Guinness Book of World Records as officially the village with the longest hair in the whole world (source).
All thanks to – you’ve guessed it right – rice water.
So Is There Any Science Behind It?
It’s one thing for an activity to be held in high esteem in history and social media but another for it to hold water in the world of science. So far, the consensus is that rice water contains a substance called Inositol.
Not many human-based research studies have been done on Inositol in relation to its benefits although so far some scientists attribute it to the following benefits:
- -Reducing surface friction of hair
- -Improving elasticity
- -Retaining hair moisture
- -Strengthening hair follicles
- -Reducing hair breakage by preventing brittleness
It’s worth noting that Inositol is actually a form of Vitamin B8. Therefore, most scientific studies related to it are usually attributed to Vitamin B8.
Now that we have seen that there’s significant evidence supporting the use of rice water for cosmetic uses, it’s time to talk about the different ways people use it.
Fermented Vs. Plain Rice Water?
You can use either water type. But one thing you need to keep in mind is that fermented substances tend to have higher quantities of antioxidants than plain ones. That’s probably why some rice water advocates swear by the benefits of using it in fermented form.
But even with that said, we still feel that more research is needed to generate anecdotal evidence to support such claims. All we know is that there are many who use plain water and it works just fine for them.
Below you’ll discover the two methods in which you can prepare and use rice water for your hair i.e. plain and fermented methods.
How to Prepare Plain Rice Water: Method 1
The best way to obtain potent rice water using plain water is by boiling it. The boiled version of it is highly concentrated and, therefore, much more powerful than the “unboiled” form of it.
How To Prepare Plain Rice Water For Your Hair
- Step One: Take a cooking pot and fill a quarter of it with rice.
- Step Two: Add some water to it i.e. more water than you’d usually need to cook it.
- Step Three: Place the cooking pot or pan on low heat. Leave it for as long as it takes for the rice to get fully cooked.
- Step Four: Once the rice is cooked, strain the excess water into a jar, bowl or tumbler. The water should have a highly concentrated whitish color.
How to Apply Plain (Boiled) Rice Water on Your Hair
On its own, this water is a perfect conditioner. That said, it’s still possible to reap more benefits from it by combining with other well-known hair conditioners.
Here’s what you need to do:
- Step One: Set aside a mug full of the rice water prepared above. To it, add a few drops of lavender, chamomile or rosemary essential oils.
- Step Two: Pour small portions of this mixture on your hair and spread it out evenly beginning from the scalp and making your way toward the tips of your hair.
- Step Three: Leave the rice water to sit on your hair for 20 minutes and in the meantime, keep massaging your scalp gently.
- Step Four: It’s time to rinse your hair. You may use a mild shampoo for that or you can use a co-wash conditioner.
How to Prepare Fermented Rice Water For Hair Growth: Method 2
You will require a 1/2 cup of rice, 2 cups of water, bowls, and a strainer.
Here’s what you need to do:
- Step One: Mix the rice with the water in a bowl and set aside for 30 minutes.
- Step Two: Stir the mixture and once you have a whitish liquid, strain it into another jar.
- Step Three: Leave the jar at room temperature for 3 days. This is meant to give the water time to ferment.
- Step Four: Once you notice a sour smell coming from the jar, transfer it to the refrigerator to stop any further bacterial activity.
- Step Five: Add two cups of warm water to this mixture before applying it to your hair. It’s not recommended to use it in an undiluted form as it’s highly potent.
How to Apply Fermented Rice Water to Your Hair
Now that you have this potent mixture ready and available for use, it’s time to use it to nourish your hair.
Here’s how to do it.
- Step One: Take a small amount of mustard powder, mix it with a small portion of the fermented rice water you just prepared. Mix it evenly until you end up with a smooth, even paste.
- Step Two: To add to its moisturizing properties, you might want to add a bit of olive oil to it. Continue mixing to keep the paste smooth and consistent.
- Step Three: Carefully apply this blend directly on your scalp. Avoid spreading it into your hair strands. Step Four: Leave the paste to settle for at least 30 minutes before washing it off using a mild shampoo.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rice Water For Hair Growth:
1. How does rice water promote hair growth?
Rice water is packed with amino acids, B vitamins, vitamin E, and minerals that help strengthen the hair shaft, nourish the scalp, and reduce breakage. These nutrients support healthier, longer hair over time.
2. How often should I use rice water on my hair?
It’s generally recommended to use rice water once or twice a week. Overusing it—especially on low-porosity hair—can lead to protein buildup, causing dryness or stiffness.
3. Should I rinse out rice water or leave it in my hair?
You can rinse it out after 15–30 minutes or leave it in as a light spray. If you’re new to it, start by rinsing it out to see how your hair responds before trying leave-in methods.
4. Can rice water be used on all hair types?
Yes, rice water can be used on all hair types. However, those with low-porosity or protein-sensitive hair may need to dilute it and use it less frequently.
5. How long does it take to see results with rice water?
Results vary, but many users report smoother, shinier hair within a few uses. Noticeable growth typically appears after 4–6 weeks of consistent use. You should start to see some major improvements in the texture of your hair. We’re recommending 3 months as different people have different types of hair. Otherwise, most people see changes in just a few weeks of using the concoction.
✨ Final Thoughts on Using Rice Water for Hair Growth
Incorporating rice water into your hair care routine is a simple, natural way to support stronger, longer, and healthier hair. Whether you’re struggling with breakage, dullness, or slow growth, rice water offers a nutrient-rich solution that’s been trusted for generations. The key is consistency, proper application, and listening to what your hair needs.
🙌 Ready to Try Rice Water for Yourself?
Why not start today?
Follow the steps in this guide and give rice water a try for at least 4–6 weeks. Don’t forget to take before and after pictures—you might be surprised by the results!
👉 Have questions or want to share your experience? Leave a comment below or share this post with someone who could benefit!
