3 ways to wash your hair with rice water
Rice water hair care has been a staple in Asian beauty routines for centuries. This article will explain the benefits of using rice water on your hair, as well as give you tips on how to achieve shinier, healthier locks.
What is Rice Water?
Rice water is the starchy liquid that is left over after washing or cooking rice. Historically, Japanese women have used rice water to encourage long hair growth and improve hair health. Today, many people use it for its beauty benefits.
Types of Rice Water Used for Hair Washing and Nourishment
Rice water hair care is a popular trend among women. There are three commonly used methods for processing rice water at home for hair care:
Regular Rice Water
To make regular rice water, simply wash the rice and collect the second rinse water after discarding the first. Allow the starch to settle to the bottom, then drain the clear water. This water contains more nutrients and can be used for hair incubation or as a dandruff treatment shampoo.
Fermented Rice Water
Fermented rice water has even more benefits for the hair. To make fermented rice water, prepare plain rice water and place it in a bowl. Cover and store it at room temperature for 1-2 days until it ferments naturally.
Boiled Rice Water
To make boiled rice water, cook more rice than usual and save the cooking water. Once the water has boiled, drain it and allow it to cool. The thickened rice water can then be used for hair incubation or washing.
These are the three common methods of making rice water. You can easily do it at home to regularly care for your hair.
Instructions for Washing Your Hair with Rice Water at Home
Rice water is easy to prepare, and if you’re experiencing scalp issues, these simple methods for washing your hair with rice water are worth a try.
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Washing Your Hair with Normal Rice Water
To wash your hair with rice water, simply use the water that was used to rinse the rice. Pour it onto your head and gently massage your scalp to help loosen any dandruff or dirt. The massage also helps the nutrients from the rice water to penetrate deeply into your hair. After 5 minutes, rinse your hair with clean water.
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Conditioning Your Hair with Fermented Rice Water
Fermented rice water can be used as a substitute for hair conditioners. Here’s how:
Wash your hair with shampoo
Mix 100ml of fermented rice water with 50ml of warm water
Apply the mixture to your hair, massaging it into your scalp to ensure even absorption
Leave it on for 5 minutes, then rinse your hair with cool water
Repeat this process 2-3 times a week for smoother hair.
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Washing Your Hair with Boiled Rice Water
Many women use boiled rice water to nourish their hair. Simply mix 100ml of boiling water used to cook rice with 1 liter of warm water (adding a few drops of essential oil can help clean and relax the scalp). Clean your scalp with shampoo and water, then apply the mixture evenly to your hair and massage for 5-10 minutes.
Note on Using Rice Water for Faster Hair Growth:
When using rice water on your scalp, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Avoid using leftover rice water from washing rice, as it may lack nutrients. Instead, use whole grain rice to make rice water for more nutrients.
- Use rice water for washing your hair 2-3 times a week, and maintain this regimen for at least a month for smoother hair.
- Rinse the rice water thoroughly and do not leave it on your hair for too long, as its high protein content can dry out your hair.
- Start with using rice water twice a week and monitor your hair condition. If it feels dry, reduce usage to once a week and add a conditioner before using the rice water for extra moisture.
- Do not use rice water for the first time if it may contain harmful chemicals or dirt that could damage your scalp and not promote hair growth.
- Rice water is only suitable for dry scalps, if you have an oily scalp, consider reducing the frequency of using it.
- Avoid using shampoo after using rice water, as the chemicals in shampoo can neutralize the benefits of rice water.
Can Wash Hair with Rice Water Promote Hair Growth?
While many women are fond of using rice water on their hair, there is currently no scientific evidence to support the claim that it can result in stronger, thicker, and smoother hair. Furthermore, this method may not be suitable for individuals with certain scalp conditions, such as dandruff, or those suffering from chronic scalp diseases such as psoriasis or eczema.
People with healthy scalps and hair can benefit from washing their hair with rice water and enjoy softer hair. However, for those with weak scalps or experiencing hair loss, this method may not effectively address their concerns. To address hair loss and promote growth, more comprehensive intervention is necessary.
Rice water is considered a natural shampoo due to its rich nutrient content for the hair. It’s important to persist in washing your hair with rice water and to keep in mind the considerations mentioned above for optimal results.
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