Rice Water for Face and Hair: Here’s What You Need to Know (and Which Products to Use)
Since ancient times, the properties of rice water have been known, especially in Asian culture. The Orientals have always used the residue from cooking rice, often fermented, for skin and hair care. The secret lies in the substances it contains: B and E vitamins, folic acid, and minerals such as iron, potassium, zinc, and magnesium.
Rice Water: What Are We Talking About?
When we talk about rice water, we are faced with two solutions. On one hand, there is the rice cooking water, which, to be used, must be diluted. For example, by adding clean water and storing it in the refrigerator.
The other method, on the other hand, does not involve boiling: it will be sufficient to pour half a cup of rice into a container with two cups of water, let it rest for about 15 minutes, and strain the rice: thus the water will be ready to use.
However, the recommended alternative is to use fermented rice water. The process is similar to the second one: it involves letting the water rest at room temperature for one or two days after draining the rice. At some point, you will see bubbles appear; bring to a boil and then let it cool. The fermented water should also be diluted with clean water.
Between Myth and Truth
Rice water is used as a treatment for hair, after shampooing: in Eastern culture, in fact, its beneficial effect on dry hair is known. But for skincare? Here the matter gets complicated because the widespread belief is that rinsing the face with rice cooking water “may inhibit the activity of elastase – an enzyme that damages elastin – and consequently, contribute to maintaining skin elasticity,” says Dr. Dario Dimauro, a dermatologist and aesthetic doctor, interviewed by MioDottore, an online platform for medical appointments.
However, this water can make the skin dry, with an unpleasant flaky effect. Not only that. If applied incorrectly on an open wound, it can cause redness and even infections. In short, DIY is not recommended. On the hair front, the solution is simple: there are many formulations of easy-to-use haircare products containing fermented rice water precisely because of its moisturizing and anti-frizz properties. Here are some references to include in your hair care routine.
The Products to Try
Garnier Ultra Dolce Smoothing Shampoo Infused with Rice Water & Starch
This shampoo is formulated to retain moisture and immediately plump up the hair, leaving it smooth and shiny for up to three days. Developed for long hair, it rinses out easily without leaving residue.
Gyada Cosmetics Curl Modeling Mousse
Formulated with ingredients ideal for supporting and fixing waves and curls with a defined and elastic effect, it contains Vine Sap, Fermented Rice Water, and Organic Aloe Vera Juice with moisturizing and anti-frizz properties that help define the hairstyle and hold even in humid conditions.
Shu Uemura Izumi Tonic – Thickening Serum for Fragile Hair with Rice Water
Izumi – fountain in Japanese – thickening tonic serum is inspired by yu-su-ru, the ancestral Japanese tradition of rinsing hair in rice water. Enriched with ceramides, this lightweight serum strengthens and thickens hair by increasing the diameter of the fiber.
Grow Gorgeous Sensitive Ceramide Rich Hair and Scalp Mask
This overnight treatment has a gentle formula with a mix of natural ingredients selected to reduce flaking and redness.
Collistar Hyaluronic Acid Shampoo
A lightweight shampoo that moisturizes and plumps up the hair, giving it brightness and vitality. Hyaluronic Acid is associated with Italian Rice Water from upcycling, with a strong antioxidant action and high capacity to prevent dryness of the hair, maintaining its hydration.
BRIOGEO Don’t Despair, Repair! MegaStrength+ – Rice Water Protein Treatment
Hair mask to be used once a week, provides an optimal balance of proteins and hydration.
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Photo credit: GettyImages
This article first appeared on Grazia.it – Author: Michela Marra
