If you’ve ever searched for natural hair care remedies, chances are you’ve stumbled upon the buzz around fermented rice water for hair and skin. This centuries-old beauty elixir, used by the women of the in Japan and the Yao women in China, has taken the beauty world by storm and for good reason. Rice water is incredibly nourishing for your hair and skin, thanks to its rich concentration of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know: from the science-backed benefits of rice water to how to make and use fermented rice water for healthier hair and glowing skin. Plus, I’m sharing some of my favorite DIY fermented rice water hair masks that you’ll absolutely love.
What Is Rice Water?
Rice water is the starchy liquid left after soaking or cooking rice. When fermented, it becomes even more potent due to its lower pH and increased antioxidant activity, making it a brilliant natural conditioner and skin toner. In layman’s terms, it is the water that you get after soaking rice in water.
Yup, as simple as that.
Why Should You Use Fermented Rice Water For Hair?
Fermented rice water is a powerhouse of nutrients
- Amino acids help strengthen the hair shaft.
- Vitamins B, C, and E nourish the scalp and support healthy growth.
- Inositol, a carbohydrate found in rice, improves elasticity and reduces surface friction.
A study showed how effective fermented rice water is for our hair and using a special imaging technique in Japan, another showed that inositol remains inside the hair shaft even after rinsing, offering long-term protection and shine.
Top Benefits Of Rice Water For Hair & Skin
For Hair:
- Promotes stronger, longer, and shinier hair.
- Enhances elasticity and prevents breakage.
- Reduces frizz and smoothens rough strands.
- Soothes irritated scalp and reduces dandruff.
- Helps restore the scalp’s natural pH balance.
For Skin:
- Tightens pores and tones skin.
- Reduces dark circles and puffiness
- Minimizes wrinkles and brightens complexion
- .Fights premature aging.
How To Make Rice Water The Right Way?
Ingredients
- Rice (of your choice): 1 cup
- Water(distilled): 4 cups
Recipe Of Rice Water With Step By Step Instructions:
- First, you’ll need a cup of rice (any kind will do but I am using white rice here). Rinse the rice thoroughly to remove dirt and excess starch.
- Soak the cleaned rice in 4 cups of distilled water. (I have seen better results with distilled water but you can also use tap water. Just make sure you avoid soaking rice in hard water).
- Let it sit at room temperature for 24 hours to allow fermentation.
- Strain the water into a clean jar or spray bottle. It should have a slightly sour aroma, this means it’s ready to use.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
To Boil Or Not To Boil?
Some prefer to boil rice water for a gentler scent and consistency. However, boiling may reduce some of the nutrients. Personally, I’ve found fermented rice water to deliver more noticeable shine and strength, while others say boiled rice water helps manage frizz better. Try both and see what works best for your hair type.
So I would say, experiment this for yourself. There is no right or wrong here. You just need to find what works best for you.
How To Use Rice Water For Hair And Skin?
Use As A Shampoo Alternative
Using fermented rice is not only a better method of washing your hair than shampoo and conditioner but it’s been used for centuries. It is a natural alternative like homemade egg shampoo to using store-bought products.Use fermented rice water as a natural cleanser 1-2 times a week. Simply pour it onto your scalp and strands, massage gently for 5 minutes, and rinse thoroughly.
Homemade Rice Water Hair Mask For Hair Fall
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fermented rice water
- 1 cup fenugreek seed water (soak overnight)
- 5 drops rosemary essential oil
How to use:
Combine all ingredients and use as the final rinse after shampoo and conditioner. Leave it on for 5 minutes, then rinse with plain water.
Benefits: Strengthens roots, reduces hair fall, and stimulates regrowth.
Whenever I struggle with hair fall, I use this fenugreek and rice water hair rinse.
For Deep Conditioning Treatment
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fermented rice water
- 1 cup brewed green tea
- 1 cup aloe vera gel (fresh or store-bought)
How to use: Mix well and apply the mask to clean, damp hair. Focus on mid-lengths and ends. Leave on for 30 minutes before rinsing. Shampoo is optional.
Benefits: Hydrates, detangles, and adds a salon-like shine.
Anti-Dandruff Rice Water Rinse
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fermented rice water
- 5 drops tea tree essential oil
How to use: Use as a scalp rinse post-shampoo. Leave on for 5–7 minutes and rinse. Regular use helps calm itchiness, reduce flakes, and fight fungal buildup.
How To Use Rice Water On Skin
DIY Frozen Rice Water Toner
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups distilled water
Instructions:
- Soak rinsed rice in distilled water for 20 minutes.
- Strain and pour the liquid into an ice cube tray.
- Freeze and use one cube each night after cleansing.
Benefits: Tightens pores, minimizes fine lines, and evens skin tone. Ideal for sensitive or acne-prone skin. Research conducted in April 2018, shows rice water works effectively well in slowing down aging signs.
How Often To Use Rice Water?
- Hair: 1–2 times per week
- Skin:Once daily (toner cube)
Note: Always conduct a patch test before using any new DIY treatment.
Over To You
Fermented rice water is one of the simplest yet most powerful beauty treatments you can add to your weekly routine. Whether you’re battling hair fall, dullness, dandruff, or skin concerns, this natural remedy is well worth the hype. Feel free to adjust quantities based on your hair length or skin needs. I’ve personally tried every recipe listed here and can vouch for their effectiveness. Let me know which one you loved the most!
Have a lovely day!