DIY Rice Water for Hair

DIY rice water for hair has been a hair staple in the far east dating back centuries. Its many benefits are still relevant and when used consistently and in the correct manner, it has many benefits for natural hair. 

Rice water benefits

1. Rice water strengthens hair strands, helping to minimize shedding and breakage.
2. It stimulates hair growth and helps maintain a healthy, dandruff-free scalp.
3. Rice water smooths hair cuticles, giving hair shine and luster, and is an effective treatment to use after protective styling.

Recommended for

Thinning, weak hair, and shedding hair.

Negative effects of Rice water on hair growth

1. Rice water contains protein, and because of this, it has been known to make some natural hair hard. It is therefore advisable to use it as a rinse-out treatment and NOT as a leave-in treatment. Also, it is recommended that you use it once a month.
2. Rice water has a strong smell that may be off-putting. To conceal the smell, you can add orange peels to the mixture or you can add some essential oils like lavender, Jasmine, or Peppermint oil. Or you can try using diy clove water for hair, which has the same benefits, minus the smell. 

Preparation time

15 minutes.

Ingredients

• X 1 cup of rice
• X2 cups of water (preferably distilled water)
• Optional: essential oil of your choice.
• Strainer

Instructions

1. Pour the rice into a container, add water, and then let it sit for at least 24 hours. (Make sure you properly wash the rice before making the rice water.)
2. Strain the rice water into an applicator bottle and it is then ready for use.

Storage

Refrigerate the water and use it as and when needed. Do not leave it in the open as it will reduce its shelf life.

Usage

• Rice water is an effective hair rinse. After shampooing your hair, generously apply the rice water from your roots to the end and massage your scalp thoroughly. You can then wrap your hair in a cap for 30 minutes, and then follow through with a deep conditioning treatment.

NaHaZo tip

If you are protein sensitive, do not use rice water as often and you can use it once every 2 months. Also, follow up with a deep conditioning treatment like avocado and aloe vera treatment to repair dry, damaged strands and reintroduce moisture to your hair.

Another tip is to use it on your scalp, concentrating on the roots, and not to spray it on your strands.

Challenge

Use rice water as a rinse, once a month, for 3 months.

*Allergens

Watch out for allergies and discontinue if your scalp or any part of your body that comes in contact with the water gets red bumps or becomes itchy. Do a touch test if you have sensitive skin.

Has rice water been good for your natural hair? Share your experience in the comments below.