Rice Water for Skin and Hair: Benefits and How to Use It

Part of our complete guide to natural skincare, and our complete guide to natural hair care.

Rice water — the starchy water left after soaking or cooking rice — is a traditional beauty remedy across Asia, and it has had a big revival online. It is gentle, cheap and easy to make. Here is what it realistically does for skin and hair, and how to use it.

Benefits of rice water for skin

• Gently soothes and tones. Many people use rice water as a mild, calming toner that leaves skin feeling soft.
• Adds a fresh, brightened look with regular, gentle use — supportive of an overall glowing-skin routine.

Benefits of rice water for hair

• Adds slip and shine. Used as a rinse, it can leave hair feeling smoother and looking glossier.
• Lightweight conditioning for those who find oils too heavy.

How to make and use rice water

• Soak method: rinse rice, soak in clean water for 20–30 minutes, strain, and use the water.
• On skin: apply with a cotton pad as a toner, then moisturise. Patch test first.
• On hair: after shampooing, pour over the scalp and lengths, leave a few minutes, then rinse well.
• Make it fresh. Use within a day or two and keep it refrigerated — it does not keep long.

An honest note: rice water is a pleasant, gentle remedy that many people enjoy — but the online claims of dramatic hair growth or skin whitening are overstated. Treat it as a nice supportive habit, not a miracle, and never leave fermented rice water on for too long, which can irritate.

Build a routine that actually works, guided

Rice water is a nice extra — but lasting results come from a complete routine. Our 14-Day Skincare Program and 9-Day Hair Care Program teach exactly that, 100% natural with nothing to buy. Not sure where to start? Take the free skin & hair analysis.

Explore the 9-Day Hair Care Program →

FAQ

Does rice water really help hair growth?
It can make hair look shinier and smoother, but claims of dramatic growth are not well proven. Use it as a gentle rinse, alongside a proper hair routine.

How often should I use rice water?
1–2 times a week is plenty for both skin and hair. Make it fresh each time.

Can I leave rice water on overnight?
Better not — especially fermented rice water, which can irritate. A short application and rinse is safer.