Fact Check: Can massaging hair with rice water for 5 minutes repair split ends?

An Instagram post claims that massaging rice water on hair for 5 minutes can repair split ends. This is FALSE claim.

Claim

An Instagram post claims that rice water repairs split ends. The user yourskin.expert in the post makes various claims that massaging rice water on hair for 5 minutes each week promotes faster hair growth, enhances shine and smoothness, repairs split ends, strengthens hair, and act as a natural conditioner. The post can be accessed here.

Fact Check

This claim made by Instagram user is False as split ends cannot be repaired.

What are split ends?

Split ends occur when hair undergoes damage, particularly from mechanical and chemical processes, leading to the weakening and longitudinal splitting of the hair shaft. These split ends are highly undesirable among consumers, as they not only make hair more difficult to comb but also cause a fly-away effect, diminishing the overall appearance of the hair.

Dr Rinky Kapoor, Consultant Dermatologist, Cosmetic Dermatologist & Dermato-Surgeon, The Esthetic Clinics, Mumbai explained, "Split ends, medically known as trichoptilosis, are a sign of damaged hair. They occur when the hair's outer layer, the cuticle, becomes worn down, leading to fraying at the ends. Common causes include excessive heat styling, frequent chemical treatments like hair coloring or straightening, and environmental factors such as sun exposure or pollution. Mechanical stress from over-brushing or towel-drying can also contribute. Once split ends form, they can't be repaired and the only permanent solution is trimming them. To prevent split ends from occurring, it’s important to use protective measures, such as applying heat protectants before styling, avoiding harsh chemicals, and keeping the hair hydrated with conditioners and serums. A healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals can also support hair strength and growth."

Rice Water's Benefits for Hair Health

Rice is one of the most widely consumed staple grains and serves as a crucial source of fiber, energy, and essential nutrients, including minerals and vitamins, particularly Vitamin E. Additionally, rice is rich in antioxidants, anthocyanins, and phenolic compounds. Rice water is also abundant in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a beneficial byproduct for health.

Rice bran water extracts supports hair health by enhancing the expression of growth factors and molecular signals that sustain the growth phase of hair. It also has anti-inflammatory effects, inhibits 5α-reductase all of which promote stronger, healthier hair growth and maintenance. Rice water can enhance hair shine, smoothness, and luster, while also strengthening hair. It serves as a natural, chemical-free hair cleanser and helps maintain the scalp’s pH balance.

Can rice water repair split ends?

Rice water is often praised in hair care for its potential benefits, such as strengthening hair and promoting shine. It is rich in nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Rice water can help in hair growth, enhances hair shine and smoothness. However, there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that massaging rice water on hair for 5 minutes can repair split ends as split ends can only be trimmed as they cannot be repaired.

A study published in World Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences found that rice water can improve hair shine, smoothness, and luster, while also fortifying and strengthening the hair. 

Another study published by Kiana Hashemi et. al. found that rice bran water supports hair health by boosting the expression of growth factors and molecular signals that maintain the hair's growth phase. Additionally, it has anti-inflammatory properties and inhibits 5α-reductase, all of which contribute to stronger and healthier hair growth.

The Medical Dialogues Fact Check Team asked Dr Rinky Kapoor, Consultant Dermatologist, Cosmetic Dermatologist & Dermato-Surgeon, The Esthetic Clinics, Mumbai whether rice water can repair split ends or not and she said, "Rice water is often promoted for its hair-strengthening properties due to the presence of inositol, a carbohydrate that can help repair damaged hair. However, it’s important to note that while rice water can temporarily improve the appearance of the hair by adding shine and reducing frizz but there are no permanent effects and it cannot repair split ends. Split ends occur when the hair shaft is damaged to the point of breaking, and once the hair is split, the only way to truly 'repair' it is to trim the damaged ends. Trimming remains the only effective solution for split ends."

Dr Ruby Sachdev, Consultant - Aesthetic Physician, Gleneagles Hospital Bengaluru, further explained "While rice water is often promoted for its potential benefits for hair, it’s important to understand that split ends cannot be repaired. Once the hair is split, the damage is permanent, and the only effective solution is trimming. However, rice water, which contains amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, may help in strengthening the hair, reducing breakage, and improving overall smoothness. It can temporarily improve the appearance of split ends by smoothing the hair shaft, but it cannot truly mend them. Regular conditioning and avoiding excessive heat or chemical treatments are essential to prevent split ends in the first place."

Medical Dialogues Final Take

Rice water may enhance hair shine, smoothness, and luster while also strengthening the hair. However, there is no scientific evidence or medical consensus to support the claim that massaging rice water on hair for 5 minutes can repair split ends. As per experts, split ends can only be trimmed to repair them.

Thus, the claim that massaging rice water on hair for 5 minutes can repair split ends is FALSE.