Chandigarh, Oct 12: Rice water — the starchy liquid left after soaking or boiling rice — is fast becoming the newest beauty essential across salons and households, touted as a natural solution for stronger, shinier, and healthier hair. What was once a traditional hair remedy in many Asian cultures has now made its way into modern hair-care routines, backed by both anecdotal evidence and scientific curiosity.
Experts say rice water is rich in amino acids, vitamins, and minerals that can help improve hair strength, reduce breakage, and enhance shine. “The starch in rice water coats the hair shaft, giving it a smoother and glossier appearance,” explains Dr. Meenal Gupta, a dermatologist based in New Delhi. “It also contains inositol, a carbohydrate that helps repair damaged hair and protects it from future damage.”
Historically, the practice of using rice water dates back to ancient Japan and China. The women of the Heian period in Japan were known for their long, floor-length hair, which they reportedly washed with rice water. Similarly, the Yao women of Huangluo village in China, often called the ‘village of long hair,’ attribute their thick, black tresses to regular rice water rinses.
Today, this centuries-old ritual has seen a revival on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, where influencers and beauty bloggers swear by its results. Videos showing “before and after” transformations have garnered millions of views, prompting even global brands to introduce rice-water-based shampoos and conditioners.
According to experts, rice water can be used in multiple ways — as a rinse, a leave-in conditioner, or even as a base for hair masks. The simplest method involves soaking half a cup of uncooked rice in two cups of water for 30 minutes, then straining the liquid and applying it to the hair after shampooing. Some users prefer fermenting the water overnight before use, claiming it enhances its benefits and nutrient content.
However, dermatologists caution against overuse. “Rice water is beneficial, but like any natural treatment, moderation is key,” says Dr. Gupta. “Overuse can sometimes lead to protein overload, making the hair stiff or dry.” Experts recommend using it once or twice a week, depending on hair type.
Apart from hair health, some studies suggest that rice water may also help soothe scalp irritation and promote hair growth. The antioxidants and vitamins B, C, and E found in rice water are known to nourish the scalp and improve circulation, creating a healthier environment for hair follicles.
For many users, the biggest appeal lies in its simplicity and cost-effectiveness. “It’s something we already have in every kitchen,” says 28-year-old beauty enthusiast Rashi Sharma from Chandigarh. “I’ve been using rice water for two months now, and my hair feels stronger and smoother.”
With its blend of ancient wisdom and modern science, rice water is proving to be more than just a passing trend. It’s a gentle, affordable, and time-tested way to restore hair vitality — one kitchen remedy that seems to have stood the test of time.
