If you're inclined towards skincare and all-natural remedies, you've likely encountered the trend of using rice water for its purported benefits on skin and hair – a phenomenon that I, too, am familiar with. From fermented rice water to ground rice, both influencers and self-proclaimed 'beauty experts' have championed its virtues, promising radiant skin, improved hair texture, and more. However, dermatologists offer a different perspective.
Rice water's surge in popularity can be attributed, in part, to its status as a readily available kitchen ingredient that has been used in various forms over time.
This DIY solution has achieved cult-favorite status, with people employing it for both hair and skin. A quick online search reveals countless individuals sharing their recipes for creating the perfect rice water.
products/remedies i am trying out:
— morgan (@kissmemiyake) August 9, 2023
- washing face with rice water
- beauty of joseon rice + probiotic sunscreen
- anua heartleaf toner
- fino hair mask
- ginger shots every morning
- fermented rice shampoo bar + conditioner bar
- face masks + steaming around 3x a week
The rice water trend has even penetrated the beauty market, prompting various renowned brands, including Indian ones, to introduce products ranging from sunscreens to toners, all touting the benefits of rice water.
Rice water, a natural ingredient with a history of use spanning centuries and multiple cultures, is believed to offer potential benefits for both skin and hair. While some of these advantages are anecdotal and subject to individual variations, here are some of the potential benefits of using rice water for skin and hair:
For hair care, rice water is commonly employed as a final rinse after shampooing and conditioning. It's essential to dilute the rice water with plain water to prevent potential protein buildup on the hair.
Hair growth: Rice water's vitamins, minerals, and amino acids are thought to support hair growth and enhance hair shaft strength.
Enhanced hair texture: The proteins in rice water may contribute to smoother and more manageable hair.
Shine and luster: The nutrients in rice water might add shine and vibrancy to hair, enhancing its appearance.
Reduced hair breakage: Rice water's proteins and amino acids may help minimize hair breakage and split ends.
Now, for skin, you can use rice water as a toner after cleansing.
It can be applied with a cotton pad or sprayed onto the skin.
How to make it?
Potential Benefits for Skin:
1. Soothing Irritation: Rice water's natural starches may have a soothing effect on irritated skin, helping to calm redness and discomfort.
2. Skin Brightening: Some people believe that rice water can contribute to a brighter complexion due to its potential exfoliating properties.
3. Tightening Pores: The astringent properties of rice water might help tighten the skin and minimize the appearance of pores.
4. Softening Skin: The vitamins and minerals in rice water could help moisturize and soften the skin, leaving it feeling smoother.
5. Anti-Aging: The antioxidants present in rice water might help protect the skin from environmental damage and potentially contribute to anti-ageing effects.
Now, if you're wondering why we are using words like 'potential' and 'may,' it's because the science behind the rice water formula and DIYs is very limited. Whether it works is mostly hearsay. So, we asked some experts, and here's what they said:
" I just tell patients to use karna hai toh karo (use if you want to)", says Dr Sujit Shanshanwal, a dermatologist from Mumbai. He further says, that there is no science or study behind it.
Dr Anupama Bisaria, a dermatologist from Noida says, "Some people believe that rice water can be useful, it may have some anti-irritant or brightening properties but it has not been studied much.
Should you decide to experiment with rice water, conducting a patch test before applying it to your entire face or hair is advised to identify any adverse reactions. If you have allergies or sensitivities to specific ingredients, consulting a dermatologist prior to incorporating rice water into your skincare or haircare routine is a prudent step.