Rice water is an incredible ally for skin and hair care. Proof of its effectiveness is the extremely long hair of Asian women who have been using it for centuries. And it is from the far East that the secret to long, healthy, fabulous hair and soft glowing skin comes. Thanks to the presence of antioxidants, minerals, B vitamins, vitamin E, amino acids, inositol, folic acid, iron, zinc, potassium and magnesium, it has nothing to envy the latest generation of creams. In fact, more and more cosmetics companies are using the fantastic properties of rice in their products. It is easy to prepare, economical and above all, environmentally friendly.
In this article we will look at the methods of preparing rice water, its benefits and some ideas on how best to use it.
Rice water: how to prepare it
There are three ways to prepare our rice water. Let’s discover them together.
Cold preparation
To make rice water using this method, you will need a cup of organic white or brown rice, a container or glass bottle and water. After rinsing the rice under running water, pour it into a container and add two cups of water. Leave the rice to soak for about 60 minutes, shaking it every so often to allow the nutrients to get out of the rice. After this time, pour the water into a clean container to obtain the precious elixir. The result will be odourless cloudy water, rich in vitamins and minerals, ready to be used as a tonic for the face or as a nourishing and detangling rinse for the hair. Cold preparation is the easiest and quickest method, ideal for those with limited time. There is no excuse not to try it!

Hot preparation
The second method involves boiling the rice. First of all, rinse half a cup of rice thoroughly. Then boil it in 3 cups of unsalted water for about 20 minutes. Drain the rice and you will have much thicker and richer water as a result, which is excellent for a pre-shampoo treatment and an excellent hair nutrient.

Fermentation
The last alternative, considered by many to be the best, is to use fermented rice water. As with cold preparation, soak the rice in water for about 60 minutes. Then let the water ferment at room temperature for 48 hours in a glass container. After 48 hours, boil the water to stop the fermentation process and let it cool. Now you can use it or put it in the fridge where you can store it for up to a week. Before using it on your hair, remember to dilute it with one or two cups of clean, warm water. The fermentation process reduces the pH level, bringing it into line with the hair’s natural pH level and increasing its effectiveness. This option is particularly suitable for dry hair.
Benefits and uses on damaged, dull and unruly hair.
Many studies showed that rice water reduces surface friction and increases hair elasticity. It is rich in vitamins, nutrients and inositol, which not only protect hair but also repair those already damaged. Hair will immediately be softer, shinier and more elastic.
Pre-shampoo rice water treatment to moisturise and strengthen hair.
To restore softness to your hair, use a pre-shampoo treatment made from rice water obtained by fermentation. As it is very rich in nutrients, always remember to dilute it with clean water before use. I have carried out several tests on my hair to find the right proportion. The dose that gave me the best results was 2 glasses of rice water with 2 glasses of clean water. Don’t worry if the rice water smells sour after fermentation, it won’t linger in your hair. However, if the smell bothers you, you can add a few drops of essential oil of your choice. Once you have prepared the ingredients, follow these simple steps:
- Comb dry hair before the pre-shampoo treatment.
- Sprinkle the rice water over your hair.
- Massage the scalp with your fingertips and make sure that all the lengths are wet.
- Squeeze out the excess rice water, towel-dry your hair and wrap it in cling film.
- Leave on for about 20 minutes (I’m lazy! but you can certainly try to leave it on for longer).
- Finally, proceed with your favourite shampoo and conditioner.
Rice water used as a natural detangling and polishing hair conditioner
However, if you don’t want to use it as a pre-shampoo treatment, you can apply rice water after washing your hair. Apply it on all the lengths and gently massage the scalp with your fingertips. Leave it on for a few minutes and rinse with lukewarm water. It will act as a natural detangling and polishing conditioner.
Benefits and uses on the skin of face and body.
There are many benefits and uses for rice water on the skin of the face and body:
- for bathing delicate skin
- soothe irritation: its anti-inflammatory action is beneficial for oily and greasy skin, as it can eliminate excessive shine without causing dryness.
- improve facial complexion: thanks to the astringent power of the pores, it makes the skin firmer and softer, improving and brightening the complexion.
- improve wrinkles and delay their appearance: by increasing collagen production.
- nourish and moisturise the skin: thanks to the presence of vitamins, starch and nutrients.
It should be used on the skin of the face just like a toner. Take a cotton ball, moisten it with a few drops of rice water and massage it into the skin of your face and neck, morning and evening. Don’t forget the lips if you want them to be soft and moisturised! Leave to work for a few minutes (5-10 minutes) and then rinse with lukewarm water. Finish your skincare with a serum and a nice nourishing cream. Try it and see what results you get! You’ll definitely include it in your daily beauty routine.
Another way to use it on the skin all over the body would be to add a glass of it to your bath.
What are you waiting for to test the benefits of rice water on your hair and skin? Write to me in the comments and let me know if you’ve had the same results!
A big hug, Tonia.