Full disclosure: Rice water creates the appearance of longer, thicker hair, but it doesn't necessarily boost growth. "The larger proteins in rice water are too big to enter the hair strand and instead create a thick protective coating over each one," Dr. Longsworth clarifies.
“Rice water has inositol, which has been linked to preventing premature hair loss and hair shedding by strengthening the hair on the scalp level while penetrating the hair strand itself, delivering vitamins, minerals and amino acids that are essential to your hair strength,” she says.
The amino acids in rice water not only promote hair growth but also increase hair volume and make the hair smooth and shiny.
And longer isn't better—always make sure to rinse out the rice water after 20 minutes, max. Dr. Harth warns that the high protein content in rice water can over-process and dry out the hair and scalp (read: flakiness) if left in for too long.
"You will not see results overnight, but should see the benefits after four to six weeks of continued use." And that goes for just about any so-called miracle worker: "It takes patience and consistency to see long-term improvements in the hair," she says.
When applying the rice water, try to really focus in on your scalp and work your way out. Let it sit for two to five minutes, and then rinse. You'll probably notice immediately how strong and thick your hair feels.
Here's the truth: You can't change the size of your hair follicles. If you were born with fine hair, it's genetics, and no product will completely alter that. Of course, there are ways to maintain your hair health, add volume, and keep it from getting any thinner.
The bottom line. There's no strong evidence to support using biotin for hair growth or to prevent hair loss in people without a deficiency. Because hair thinning and poor hair growth are sometimes associated with a biotin deficiency, correcting a deficiency can help restore hair growth in some people.
Lifestyle factors could include using certain hair products, wearing your hair up too tightly, experiencing high stress levels, or not getting enough of certain vitamins and minerals in your diet. People who have immune system deficiencies could also have thinning hair.
Extensions
A lot of actresses wear clip-on hair extensions for their performances, to give an extra-glamorous and lush mane look. While the extensions available in the market previously were quite cheap-looking, you get a lot of realistic-looking, natural extensions now.
"Sudden thinning hair can be a symptom of anemia (low red blood cell count), hormonal issues especially related to events like pregnancy, or a thyroid disorder, which are all very common in women," says Dr. Peredo.
Is it OK to put rice water in your hair every day? Friese says rice water is actually a great replacement for your regular conditioner—but only about once a week (and, reminder, only if you don't have low-porosity hair or a dry scalp).
If too much rice water is used very frequently or left in the hair for too long, it can cause damage. Use rice water not more than once a week, and do not use it as a leave-in spray if it's not suiting your hair.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, humans naturally grow hair at a rate of about half an inch per month, on average. Some women claim that hair treated with rice water, though, can grow approximately two inches per month.
Sadick says. "It contains carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins that can foster a balanced environment in the scalp to keep your follicles healthy." So, while rice water isn't scientifically proven to actually make your hair grow faster, it can still make it look shinier, healthier, and fuller.
“Rice water will not stop or reduce a true hair loss issue,” explains Anabel matter-of-factly. “However, due to its high protein content, it may, from a purely cosmetic standpoint, give strands a thicker feel. A rice water rinse may also give strands extra shine,” she points out.