It’s crazy to think how many beauty solutions come from our very own kitchen cabinets. Rice, for example, is a staple in very many households around Uganda. But did you know it can also step in for beauty reasons? Rice is great for both the skin and the hair, so I’ll first give you the tea on why it’s so good before we can get into how to make rice water.
Using rice originated from Asia, but because it’s not one of those plants that you have to first sell half a kidney and an ostrich egg to get, it is a perfect candidate to add to our beauty regimen.
For skin, rice works great to reduce inflammation on the skin and thus reducing symptoms of eczema. It can also help with brown spots (hyper-pigmentation), sun spots and aging signs because rice contains natural antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin-A, phenolic and flavonoid compounds, which may minimize damage from age, sun and environment. It also illuminates, firms and tightens skin to appear refreshed and reduces pore size, leaving a powdery, soft feeling behind.
For hair, rice has been known to stimulate hair growth, when it’s water is used as a conditioner. The Yao women from China believe it makes hair all the more healthy, soft and long. Many bloggers and youtubers have gone crazy over rice water and it’s effects on their length in a short time.
How to make rice water:
Get a cup of rice and soak it in as much water as you would want. Some stop at soaking and do so for an hour or until the water turns a milky white.
It is said that boiling extracts the starch better so you could also boil your mixture a bit, then extract the water and cool it before use. Be sure not to add salt in it.
The great thing about making rice water is that you don’t have to waste any rice while at it! Just set aside your water and go on to make your rice as you normally would.
You can keep your rice water in a separate container for an extra week at the most. Use on both your face and hair (if you do your own hair) and watch yourself glow with your less than ordinary dinner food!
Let us know in the comments section if you would try this ancient Asian hack or all your rice is for eating?
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