Rice water, which is nothing short of a magic potion, has taken the haircare world by storm. With its easy accessibility and application, this Asian secret has quickly become a must-have in many people's hair care routines. But what is so special about rice water that beauty gurus can't stop recommending it. Let's find out!
ORIGIN
Rice water finds its historic roots in many Asian countries like China, Japan and Korea. Centuries ago, women at the imperial court of Japan, especially professional female entertainers, used to rinse their hair and face with rice water. Using rice water made their skin supple, smooth and even. This solution was very famous in that era and was termed 'Yu-Su-Ru.'
Today, rice water is extensively used by the Red Yao women native to the Chinese village of Huangluo. They even hold a Guinness Book world record for the 'world's longest hair village.' Not only this, Yao women's hair doesn't start turning grey until they are 80! So what does rice water contain?
The starchy leftover obtained after soaking or boiling rice in water is full of nutrients. It is rich in proteins, essential to maintain the health of the cells, Vitamins B and E, triglycerides, lipids, carbohydrates, inositol and phytic acid. Rice water's uses are diverse. It can be used as a skin toner, hair mask, shampoo, and even a hair conditioner.
BENEFITS FOR HAIR
Rice water's benefits for hair are vast and varied. It keeps the hair frizz-free and makes it luscious, shiny, and strong. Let's look at these benefits in detail.
1) Bye Bye Frizz!
A study by the International Journal of Cosmetic Science conducted in 2010 showed that regular use of rice water improved hair texture and elasticity and made it less frizzy due to a carbohydrate called inositol.
2) 100% chemical-free
You don't have to worry about any chemicals and preservatives damaging your hair when using rice water as it is organic. Rice water keeps the pH level of hair in check and also preserves your hair's natural oils intact. While it might be a bit inconvenient to use it as a shampoo compared to a store-bought shampoo, it can be easily used as a conditioner.
To make your rice water even more effective, we recommend allowing it to sit for a day or two to ferment. Fermented rice water will boost cell regeneration and make your skin and hair look glorious.
3) Boosts hair growth and strength
The proteins in the rice water help your hair grow faster, and the amino acid in it strengthens the hair roots.
4) Makes hair smooth and shiny
Rice water is a natural conditioner, so it adds a protective layer to your hair against factors such as heat, sun and pollution. This ensures that your hair doesn't get damaged and lose its natural shine.
HOW TO MAKE RICE WATER AT HOME
The best part about rice water is that you don't have to run to the nearest store to get it! You can make it at home without any special effort. There are two ways to make rice water.
1) Take one cup of uncooked rice and strain it once with water to eliminate impurities like pesticides and pollutants. Now mix the strained rice with double the amount of water thoroughly. Keep mixing it until the water turns cloudy, and then leave it for about half an hour. Then strain the rice from the water and store it in a bottle. Your rice water is ready!
2) The next method is pretty simple, especially if you are from an Asian household. Boil a cup of rice in twice the amount of water that you usually use to cook it. Strain the water into a bottle when your rice is cooked halfway through.
If stored in the refrigerator, your rice water can last up to 5 days a week. It can go bad when stored at room temperature. Remember that the rice water will become concentrated with each passing day, so make sure to dilute it with water.
Although buying rice water infused products from the store is not necessary, it's convenient as you don't have to worry about it going bad and taking time out to whip up a fresh batch every week. In addition to that, the products might have some additional ingredients that will complement the rice water wonderfully!
If you're confused about which product to try among the myriad of rice water products, don't worry! Check out Sesa's recently launched Rice water shampoo and conditioner.
This paraben and sulphate free shampoo have the richness of rice water extract, biotin and aloe vera that help smoothen hair and promote its growth. The aloe vera in it nourishes the scalp, and the biotin effectively prevents hair loss and improves its quality.
This paraben-free and sulphate free conditioner is perfect for frizzy and dry hair as the rice water extract and shea butter in it help in hair's deep conditioning and makes it more manageable. The biotin in it prevents hair loss and improves hair quality.