Does rice water make hair grow?

Updated article, originally published February 25, 2022

While we spend fortunes on hair conditioners, masks and oils, a very simple and natural “homemade” recipe would strengthen, condition and detangle hair for less cost. And that’s not all! According to some fans, she it also promotes hair growth.

This “miracle” product is therice water, which is recovered after cooking or soaking the grains, once well loaded with nutrients. But what can we really expect from this ancestral trick? Experts enlighten us.

What are the benefits of rinsing hair with rice water?

Speaking to Allure magazine, dermatologist Howard Sobel explains:

“Rice water is a starch-rich liquid that has many benefits for strengthening the hair fiber. […] It contains antioxidants, amino acids, vitamins and a substance called inositol, which help make hair shinier and stronger. »

In addition to vitamins and amino acids, the presence of inositol makes rice water particularly interesting for hair care. ” Studies have shown that this substance can prevent damage and repair weak and brittle hair adds Dr. Sobel.

The starch in the water also acts as a film for tame frizz, coat ends and give the impression of extra thickness and volume. Not bad, right?

And it’s not just the lengths that benefit from it, the scalp too! Ginger King, formulator, also explains to Allure magazine:

” Rice water acts as a mild cleanser and toner, so it can help remove buildup left behind by hair products and refresh your scalp. »

How to rinse hair with rice water?

Rice water should be applied after shampooing, on the lengths but also on the scalp, and left on for fifteen minutes before rinsing thoroughly.

Dermatologist Dhaval G. Bhanusali gives some advice to our colleague:

“Once a week is fine, and no more than fifteen minutes. If rice water is left on for longer, there is a risk of drying out the hair and doing more harm than good. I don’t recommend this trick for fine hair, as the starch could weigh it down. »

Obviously it is out of the question to spill a basin of hot, cloudy water on your head: the liquid must have had time to cool down, in the fridge or at room temperature.

Does rice water make hair grow?

While there are many glowing testimonials on the subject, the powers of rice water on hair growth are unproven.

According to Ginger King, ” due to its amino acid content, it could help nourish the scalp. However, there is no scientific data showing that it promotes hair growth. “.

Yes, it’s a little disappointing, but that shouldn’t stop you from trying this “homemade” beauty recipe if you feel like it. As Dr. Bhansuali so aptly puts it, ” although I think patients shouldn’t expect to see their hair grow faster, hair appearance can still be improved with the use of rice water “.

Now you know what to do next time you cook basmati.

Front page photo credit: Ivana Cajina on Unsplash