Rice water is simply the liquid that’s left over after rinsing or cooking rice. For centuries, people in many parts of Asia have used it in traditional beauty routines, hair care, and even for soothing skin. Recently it’s gained popularity worldwide as a simple, inexpensive home remedy with a variety of claimed benefits from stronger hair to brighter skin and more.
Benefits for Hair: Shine, Strength, and More
One of the most talked-about uses of rice water is as a hair treatment. Advocates say it can make hair look more nourished and vibrant, and many traditions link rice water with long, healthy hair.
Here’s how rice water may help hair:
- Adds shine and smoothness: The starch and nutrients in rice water can coat the hair cuticle, giving hair a glossy appearance.
- Strengthens strands: Amino acids and vitamins in the liquid may help fortify hair and reduce breakage, especially when used after shampooing.
- Detangles and reduces frizz: Many people find hair easier to comb through after a rice water rinse.
- Supports hair health: Compounds like inositol are thought to help with hair’s resilience and repair damaged areas.
- However, experts also say not all claims are fully backed by strong science and effects vary by individual. Despite its long history and widespread use, more rigorous research is still needed.
Skin Benefits: Soothing and Brightening Properties
Rice water isn’t just for hair — it’s also used in skincare routines. Many people apply rice water topically to help support skin health because it contains vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Potential skin benefits include:
- Soothing irritation: Its anti-inflammatory properties can help calm redness or irritation, especially from dryness or surface irritation.
- Hydration and texture: Rice water may help retain moisture and improve texture in a gentle way.
- Brightening complexion: Some people use rice water as a toner or mask to help even out skin tone and reduce dullness.
- Dermatologists note that while rice water can be a nice supplemental step, it shouldn’t replace medical treatments for conditions like acne or pigmentation disorders.
How It’s Used in Beauty Routines
There are different ways that people prepare and use rice water, each with slightly different effects:
- Rinse method: Soak rinsed rice in water for 30 minutes, then strain and use the liquid.
- Boiled rice water: Cook rice and save the starchy water after boiling.
- Fermented water: Let soaked rice water sit at room temperature for 24–48 hours before using it, which some believe increases its effectiveness.
- Rice water can be applied directly to hair after washing and left on for several minutes before rinsing, or used as a toner on skin with a cotton pad.
Precautions and Practical Tips
Even though rice water is natural and low-cost, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Don’t overuse: Using rice water too frequently on hair may cause buildup or stiffness because of the starch content. Many experts suggest limiting it to a few times a week.
- Dilute if needed: Especially if fermented, rice water can be strong. Diluting with plain water can reduce the risk of irritation for skin or scalp.
- Patch test: Before widespread use, testing a small area of skin or hair can help ensure you won’t react negatively.
A Tradition With Modern Appeal
While rice water’s popularity has soared with social media and beauty communities, its use has deep historical roots. Communities in parts of China and Japan have used rice water for hair and skin rituals for centuries, long before modern beauty products existed. Today, many people enjoy rice water simply because it’s natural, easy to make, and often feels like a gentle addition to routine care — whether that’s a hair rinse, a skin toner, or a homemade beauty treatment.
