Rice water as a hair rinse has become a popular beauty trend that originated in Asian cultures.
Rice water is the liquid left afterricehas been boiled or soaked.
Anecdotes can be found about the promising benefits of rice water, but scientific evidence is lacking.
Larisa Stefanuyk / Getty Images
This article will discuss the possible benefits and risks of using rice water.
It will also cover circumstances when rice water should not be used.
Larisa Stefanuyk / Getty Images
Rice Water Hair Treatment: Are There Benefits?
Rice water hair treatments, also called Yu-Su-Ru, have theoretical benefits.
This water is high in starch and is thought to provide benefits when applied to thehair.
Then, add 2 or 3 cups of water and soak the rice for 30 minutes.
Remove the rice through a strainer and reserve the water.
The water is now rice water and may be used for the hair.
This may have some benefits, but research is lacking that would support this claim.
After rinsing, pour rice water over your head and hair andmassageit into thescalpand hair.
Should Anyone Not Use Rice Water on Their Hair?
However, an article from 2023 suggests that the heavystarchfrom rice water may damage the hair.
Anyone with sensitivities or allergies to rice should also avoid using rice water.
Premade Rice Water Formulas
Many hair care products on the market contain rice water.
If you are concerned about the safety of any personal care product, contact a healthcare provider for guidance.
Summary
Rice water hair rinses may offer some benefit but their evidence is lacking.
Anecdotally, rice water improves hair strength and shine and supports hair growth.
If you have any concerns, talk to a healthcare provider.
2023;22(2):669-670. doi:10.1111/jocd.15123
SPring-8.Development of hair care products from rice water.
Nebraska Medicine University Health Center.Rice water for hair: is it the miracle social media claims?
Food & Drug Administration.Hair cleansing products.
