baking soda<\/a>, or even tea to treat hair, depending on your hair concern.
\nAvoid using with another protein therapy because rice water already includes protein to avoid overdoing it.
\nHair Benefits of Rice Water
\nRice grains in a bowl of water
\nRice is one of the most widely consumed grains on the planet. Folate, a B-vitamin best recognized for treating anemia and necessary for helping the neural tube form during pregnancy, is added to the mix. 2 What does this mean in terms of encouraging healthier hair? “The benefits of rice water are not entirely known,” Chimento explains, “and the benefits of rice water remain unverified.” However, she adds that anecdotal evidence of its benefits is emerging (though more study is needed to back it up):<\/p>\nProtein is a vital part of a balanced diet, and it also plays an important function in keeping hair healthy. Rice water’s protein is thought to assist improve hair’s general condition (read: harder, better, faster, stronger).
\nEnhances radiance: The starchy solution is thought to give luster to drab locks, according to anecdotal evidence from proponents of rice water.
\nCan aid in hair growth: “Rice water includes amino acids that assist hair regeneration, which may help to increase hair growth. It also contains vitamins C, B, and E, all of which aid in hair development. The hair shaft is strengthened by vitamins C, B, and E, and the stronger the shaft is, the longer the hair can grow “Chimento adds.<\/p>\n
Reverses hygral fatigue: While hair requires moisture to keep healthy, too much moisture can actually be harmful. Try a protein therapy like a rice water rinse to rebalance overly moistened locks (aka hygral exhaustion).
\nDetangles hair: Rice water supporters claim that it softens strands, making them simpler to untangle.
\nHair is smoothed: Damaged and\/or porous hair has a hard time holding moisture, resulting in frizz and split ends. The nutritious proteins in rice water, on the other hand, may help to counteract this, minimizing breakage and so enhancing hair texture.<\/p>\n
Considerations for Different Hair Types<\/h3>\n
If you’re new to protein treatments or aren’t sure if your hair will benefit from one, color-treated, relaxed, heat-styled, and natural hair all need a protein boost. “Rice water is an excellent treatment for fine, dull hair because it is considered to make hair shinier and stronger while also helping to keep knots at bay,” says Friese. Furthermore, according to Chimento, “Rice water contains protein, which helps to enhance the condition of dry, brittle, curly hair and make it more bouncy.<\/p>\n
Those who desire to add shine to their hair as well as improve and strengthen the condition of their hair cuticle may benefit.” While Chimento acknowledges that rice water is healthy for all hair types, she adds a caveat: “Those with low porosity hair should use it in moderation since the proteins may adhere to your hair instead of being absorbed by your hair.”<\/p>\n
How to Care for Your Hair with Rice Water<\/h3>\n
Making rice water at home\u2014Cardi-B style\u2014seems like a no-brainer, especially since it only requires two ingredients. “The old-fashioned ‘in kitchen’ method (more on that below) is my favorite way to use rice water,” Friese agrees. If DIY methods aren’t your style, she recommends hair care products with strengthening rice amino acids, such as BosleyMD’s Follicle Energizer ($30) and BosRevive Nourishing Shampoo ($21). Because rice water functions as a protein treatment, you’ll want to use it as frequently as you do protein-based masks and treatments to avoid brittle, dry hair. Once a week, Friese recommends replacing a usual conditioner with rice water. Boiling or soaking are both options in the DIY recipe, although the latter is regarded to provide the most advantages.<\/p>\n
1\/2 cup rice, 1 tbsp. oil, 1 tbsp
\n2 quarts water
\nStainer
\n2 ramekins
\n1 receptacle with a lid
\na bottle for spraying
\nSoaking Instructions:
\nIn a sieve, pour 12 cups of uncooked rice.
\nRinse well.
\nIn a mixing bowl, combine the rice and 2 cups of water.
\nSoak at room temperature for up to 24 hours.
\nInto a clean basin, strain the rice water.
\nFill a spray bottle halfway with rice and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.
\nBoiling Instructions:
\nIn a sieve, pour 12 cups of uncooked rice.
\nRinse well.
\n2 cups water, brought to a boil
\nPour the rice into a pot of boiling water and cook until the water becomes murky.
\nAllow the water to cool.
\nFill a spray bottle halfway with Funnel.
\nRefrigerate until ready to use (up to a week, max)
\nInstructions:
\nShampoo your hair and then rinse it.
\nHair should be towel-dried.
\nApply the rice water to your hair.
\nMassage into the scalp and hair.
\nCover with a bag or a plastic lid (a shower cap works, too)
\nAllow up to 20 minutes for the treatment to take effect.
\nRinse with warm water thoroughly and style as desired.
\nIt’s best to leave this treatment on for up to 20 minutes, but if your hair feels crunchy afterward, remove it sooner the next time. Apply a moisturizing deep conditioner afterward. It can take some time to get the ideal combination of moisture and strength, so don’t give up if your hair doesn’t respond well to protein straight away.<\/p>\n