Here, we explain everything you need to know. But despite the lack of hair growth research, rice water does have certain properties that can make it beneficial for hair health in general. Read: Just because it might not make your hair grow to great lengths doesn’t mean it’s not a worthwhile treatment to try! “Rice water is rich in starch, which forms the surface of the hair shaft,” says Zeichner. “This adds strength, enhances hydration, and minimizes the appearance of split ends.” The starch is the main ingredient in rice water, specifically; however, the water is also thought to contain some of the good-for-hair actives found in rice generally, including antioxidants, minerals, and amino acids. The antioxidants are a vital part of hair health, as they neutralize free radicals, which can do major damage to strands; minerals and amino acids may help strengthen strands. It’s also rich in an active called inositol, which studies have shown helps mend and repair damaged hair1. Not only that, but it’s good for the scalp: “Rice water can also benefit the scalp itself, enhancing skin hydration,” he says. (There’s a reason rice extracts are added to moisturizers.) And with a healthier scalp comes healthier hair at the root. So even if this doesn’t spur growth or regrowth, it does help the hair you already have healthy. All you’ll need is a bowl or large cup, rice, water, an empty container (like a jar or squeeze bottle with a cap), and something to strain the rice with:
