Rice Water for Hair Growth: Does It Work?
For centuries, women across Asia have turned to rice water as a natural hair care treatment. From the long, lustrous locks of the Yao women in Huangluo Village, China—often called the “world’s longest hair village”—to modern-day beauty enthusiasts on TikTok, rice water has gained popularity as a potential remedy for stronger, shinier, and faster-growing hair.
But does it really work? Or is rice water just another beauty trend with more hype than science? Let’s dive into the origins, benefits, scientific evidence, and practical ways to use rice water for hair growth.
The Origins of Rice Water in Hair Care
The use of rice water in beauty rituals isn’t new. Historical accounts trace this practice back to Japan’s Heian period (794–1185 CE), when noblewomen—known for their ankle-length hair—washed their hair with “Yu-Su-Ru,” the starchy water left over from rinsing rice.
Similarly, the Yao women in China’s Guangxi Province have long used fermented rice water to maintain their famously long, black, and healthy hair. This cultural tradition has sparked curiosity around the world, inspiring many to adopt rice water rinses in their own routines.
What Exactly Is Rice Water?
Rice water is the starchy liquid that remains after soaking, rinsing, or boiling rice. It’s rich in nutrients, including:
Amino acids – building blocks of protein that can strengthen hair strands.
B vitamins (like B1, B2, B3, and B6) – support hair and scalp health.
Vitamin E – a powerful antioxidant that may protect against damage.
Minerals (zinc, magnesium, and manganese) – nourish the scalp.
Inositol – a carbohydrate thought to repair damaged hair and improve elasticity.
Depending on how it’s prepared—soaked, boiled, or fermented—the nutrient concentration may vary, which can affect how beneficial it is for hair.
How Rice Water May Benefit Hair Growth
While rice water isn’t a miracle cure for hair loss, it may contribute to healthier hair in several ways:
1. Strengthens Hair
The proteins and amino acids in rice water can temporarily fill in damaged areas along the hair shaft, reducing breakage and making strands feel smoother.
2. Improves Elasticity
Inositol, a compound found in rice water, may penetrate the hair shaft and improve elasticity, meaning less brittleness and snapping.
3. Enhances Shine and Smoothness
Many people report softer, shinier hair after using rice water rinses. This may be due to the smoothing effect of starch and amino acids.
4. Reduces Friction
Rice water can coat the hair cuticle, making detangling easier and reducing friction between strands.
5. Supports Scalp Health
A healthy scalp is the foundation for hair growth. The vitamins and antioxidants in rice water may soothe irritation and keep the scalp balanced.
What Science Says About Rice Water
Despite its long history and popularity, scientific research on rice water for hair growth is still limited. Most claims come from anecdotal evidence and small studies.
A 2010 study in the Journal of Cosmetic Chemists noted that inositol in rice water may help repair damaged hair and protect it from future damage.
Another study from 2012 suggested rice bran extract (not rice water itself) could promote hair growth by increasing blood supply to hair follicles.
However, there are no large-scale clinical trials proving that rice water directly stimulates faster hair growth.
In short: while rice water can strengthen hair and reduce breakage, which indirectly helps hair look longer and healthier, the scientific evidence linking it to faster hair growth is still inconclusive.
Rice Water vs. Other Natural Hair Remedies
When compared to other popular natural treatments, rice water stands out for its simplicity:
Coconut oil deeply moisturizes but can weigh down fine hair.
Aloe vera soothes the scalp but may not strengthen strands.
Castor oil is often praised for hair growth but can be sticky and hard to wash out.
Rice water, by contrast, is lightweight, affordable, and easy to prepare at home.
How to Make Rice Water for Hair
There are three main methods to prepare rice water:
1. Soaking Method (Quick & Easy)
Rinse ½ cup of uncooked rice to remove dirt.
Place it in a bowl with 2–3 cups of water.
Let it soak for 30 minutes.
Strain the rice, keeping the water.
2. Boiling Method
Cook rice in more water than usual.
Strain the extra water after boiling.
Allow it to cool before applying to hair.
3. Fermentation Method (Most Popular)
Soak rice in water for 24–48 hours at room temperature.
Strain out the rice and keep the liquid.
Fermentation lowers pH, making it closer to the natural pH of the scalp, and may enhance nutrient availability.
Refrigerate and use within a week.
How to Use Rice Water on Hair
Shampoo your hair as usual.
Apply rice water to your scalp and hair, gently massaging it in.
Leave it on for 10–20 minutes.
Rinse thoroughly with plain water.
You can use rice water once or twice a week. Overuse may cause protein buildup, making hair feel stiff or dry, especially if you already use protein-rich hair products.
Potential Side Effects and Precautions
While generally safe, rice water may not suit everyone:
Protein overload – Too much protein can make hair dry or brittle.
Scalp irritation – Rare, but some people may develop itching or dandruff.
Strong odor – Fermented rice water has a sour smell; adding a few drops of essential oil can help.
If you notice increased dryness, use it less frequently or mix it with a moisturizing treatment.
Who Might Benefit the Most?
Rice water can be beneficial for:
People with damaged, brittle, or chemically treated hair needing strength.
Those with curly or textured hair, which tends to be more fragile.
Anyone looking for a low-cost, natural hair rinse to enhance shine.
However, people with naturally protein-sensitive hair or fine, low-porosity hair should use it sparingly to avoid buildup.
The Verdict: Does Rice Water Really Work for Hair Growth?
Rice water is unlikely to make your hair grow faster overnight. What it can do is strengthen existing strands, reduce breakage, and improve hair health—making it easier for your hair to retain length. In this sense, rice water supports growth indirectly by minimizing damage.
It’s a natural, affordable, and time-tested remedy worth trying if you’re curious. Just remember: consistency, patience, and overall scalp health play bigger roles in hair growth than any single treatment.
Final Tips for Healthy Hair Growth
If you want to maximize your results with rice water, combine it with healthy hair habits:
Maintain a balanced diet rich in protein, iron, and vitamins.
Avoid excessive heat styling and harsh chemicals.
Keep your scalp clean and well-moisturized.
Protect hair from UV rays and environmental stress.
With the right approach, rice water can be a simple yet effective addition to your hair care routine.
