Rice Water for Hair: Viral TikTok Trend, Is It Really Effective? | Salwa Salon

Beauty Besties, there’s a lot of buzz right now about rice water for hair! They say that besides being good for plants and washing dishes, this leftover rice water is amazing for achieving glowing celebrity-like hair. Curious, right?

Rice Water: A Traditional Beauty Secret Making a Comeback

It’s not just on TikTok; top celebrities like Cardi B and Kim Kardashian are also rumored to be fond of using rice water for their hair. But how can this simple water have such great benefits? It’s said that rice water is rich in nutrients, antioxidants, and even antiseptics. In reality, this isn’t something new!

A Long Tradition of Hair Longevity in Asia

Washing hair with rice water or wheat water has been a generational tradition in many Asian countries. For example, in Huangluo Yao village, China, there are women renowned for their incredibly long hair, some even exceeding one meter! They don’t use modern shampoos or conditioners but rely on a natural concoction of fermented rice water mixed with yuzu peel, herbs, and camellia seed oil, which is then boiled. Amazing, right?

Even the palace maids in Japan during the Heian period (794-1185) reportedly rinsed their hair with rice water daily. So, this isn’t just a fleeting trend but a time-tested beauty heritage.

Scientific Facts vs. Anecdotes: What Do Experts Say?

Now, the big question is, is rice water still relevant and effective for our hair today? According to Andrea Clark, a hair and scalp specialist, much of the information about rice water is still historical and anecdotal. This means there are more truyền miệng stories than strong scientific evidence.

It’s true that rice water is said to contain vitamins, minerals, and essential amino acids that are good for hair. However, Clark reminds us that we can get all these nutrients from the food we eat. Therefore, our hair is nourished from within, not just from the outside.

It’s Not Just Rice Water, Genetics Also Play a Role!

There are also reports from China Central Television stating that not all women in the villages near Huangluo Yao who use rice water have long or black hair. A professor in the report concluded that differences in hair characteristics could be due to genetics. Clark agrees, stating that hair growth is indeed influenced by genetics, diet, and overall health.

So, getting enough sleep, managing stress, and eating healthily are the key to healthier, better-growing hair. Asian foods like seaweed, tofu, and nuts are rich in protein and amino acids. Herbs like dong quai or fo-ti can also help with circulation and reduce hair loss.

You Can Still Try It, As Long As…

Clark also adds that there’s no single treatment that works for everyone. This means if you’re really curious and want to try rice water, there’s no harm in giving it a go! Who knows, it might work wonders for your hair.

How to Make and Use Rice Water

It’s very easy to make. Simply soak clean, uncooked rice in 2-3 cups of water for 30 minutes. After that, strain and collect the water. Store it in a bottle.

If you want to use it immediately, shampoo your hair as usual. Then, rinse with this rice water. Don’t leave it on your hair for too long; about 20 minutes is enough, then rinse again until clean. Happy trying, Beauty Besties!