Who knew this kitchen staple had so many benefits?
Imagine if we told you to wash your hair with the left over water from your boiled rice? Yes, you read that correctly. For centuries, Japanese women have been washing their hair with rice water to improve scalp health, make their hair stronger and stimulate growth. Like all good trends, this has impressive roots. The only difference? It's now being hailed with a new name, 'hair water'.
It's a secret beauty brands know all too well. For years, Kiehl's have been championing the stuff, with their Rice and Wheat Volumising Shampoo, £16, one of their hero products. And over in Australia, new cult beauty brand, Prep, have recently launched a whole collection based around the ancient tradition.
Why? Because the beauty benefits are endless. Rice water contains vitamins, minerals and amino acids, including ferulic acid, which is a great antioxidant, and allantoin, known for it’s anti-inflammatory properties. It also contains an amazing amount of proteins that are able to strengthen your hair shaft and fill in the cracks.
But that's not where it all ends. In a dermatological study at Brussels University, patients with atopic dermatitis (chronic inflammation of the skin) saw a 20% improvement after taking 15-minute baths filled with rice water twice a day. And when consumed, rice water can provide you with 8 essential amino acids, which form the building blocks for tissue and muscle regeneration.
Need we say more?
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How to make rice water
- First rinse the rice with about a cup of water to remove any dirt.
- Place the rice in a bowl and cover with water.
- Let the rice soak for 15 to 30 minutes.
- Strain the rice over a jug or jar.
Cheap AND effective? We think this is one hair trend we're definitely going to give a try.
