Is Rice Water Good for Hair?

Hair care trends come and go, but some natural remedies manage to stand the test of time. One such trend that’s been making waves across social media and natural beauty forums is rice water for hair. But is it just another fad, or does it truly deliver the shine, strength, and growth it promises?

Let’s take a closer look at the benefits of rice water, how it works, and whether it deserves a place in your UK hair care routine.

Rice water is the starchy water left behind after rice has been soaked or cooked. It’s rich in vitamins, minerals, and amino acids – all of which are believed to help nourish and strengthen hair.

Rice water is said to support your hair’s health in a number of ways. Here are the most talked-about benefits – and whether science backs them up.

Rice water is thought to stimulate hair follicles and encourage healthy growth thanks to its high levels of inositol, an antioxidant that repairs damaged hair and promotes new growth.

While clinical trials are limited, many people report noticeable results after regular use. Some UK users say they’ve seen thicker, stronger hair within weeks.

Protein-rich rice water contains amino acids that bind to the hair shaft, reinforcing weak or brittle strands. This is particularly useful if your hair is damaged from heat styling, bleaching, or colouring.

Rice water smooths the hair cuticle, making strands appear shinier and feel softer. It can also help reduce frizz – a huge bonus during the UK’s damp autumn and winter months.

With its anti-inflammatory properties, rice water may help calm irritated or itchy scalps, which are common complaints in the colder seasons here in Britain.

One of the best things about this treatment is how simple (and affordable) it is to make.

1. Rinse 1/2 cup of white or brown rice thoroughly.

2. Place it in a bowl with 2–3 cups of water.

3. Let it soak for 30 minutes.

4. Strain the rice and keep the water.

5. Pour into a clean bottle or container.

Fermented rice water is said to be even more potent, thanks to the pH shift during fermentation that mirrors the scalp’s natural acidity.

1. Follow the soaking method.

2. Let the rice water sit at room temperature for 24–48 hours until it starts to smell slightly sour.

3. Refrigerate and use within a week.

You can use rice water in a few different ways, depending on your hair type and goals.

• Shampoo your hair as usual.
• Pour rice water over your hair, massaging it into your scalp.
• Leave it on for 10–20 minutes.
• Rinse thoroughly with cold water.

For extra hydration and shine:

• Spray diluted rice water onto towel-dried hair.
• Leave in without rinsing (only if your hair isn’t protein-sensitive).

Top tip : Start by using rice water once a week. Overuse can lead to protein overload, especially if you have low-porosity or protein-sensitive hair.

Not necessarily. While many people benefit from it, there are a few things to consider depending on your hair type.

Rice water can add body and strength to fine or limp strands. Just make sure not to overdo it – a little goes a long way.

It can enhance curl definition and reduce breakage, but curly hair is often more prone to protein overload. Do a strand test first.

Rice water can help repair and restore strength to bleached or dyed hair. Use it as part of a wider recovery routine.

Rice water is a simple, cost-effective, and potentially powerful treatment for improving hair strength, shine, and scalp health. While it may not be a miracle solution, it certainly offers enough benefits to justify trying – especially if you’re looking for more natural ways to care for your hair in the UK’s ever-changing climate.

Start slow, watch how your hair responds, and enjoy experimenting with this age-old beauty secret from your own kitchen.