For most of us, rice water is a beauty hack we’ve heard about for silky hair or glowing skin. It’s that simple, old-school remedy your grandmother probably mentioned while cooking in the kitchen. But here's a point you possibly did not think of: rice water could also be used to great advantage for your nails. Yes, the same cloudy fluid that generally flows down the drain contains nutrients capable of fortifying brittle nails, re-establishing shine, and even providing overall nail health.
Benefits Of Rice Water For Nails
Here are seven ways rice water helps you get healthier, stronger nails.
1. Strengthens Weak Nails
Rice water contains amino acids, which are the protein-building blocks. Since nails are made primarily of a protein called keratin, these amino acids strengthen and repair them internally. Soaking them daily in rice water can minimise breakage and make the nails feel less brittle.
2. Promotes Nail Growth
Similar to how it promotes hair growth, rice water can also promote nail growth. It is nutrient-dense in vitamins B, E, and minerals like magnesium and selenium that increase blood flow towards the nail bed, allowing for faster and healthier growth.
Also Read: Rice Water Has Benefits Beyond Skin And Hair: Learn What It Can Do To Your Body
3. Restores Shine and Smoothness
If your nails often look dull or feel rough, rice water will restore their natural sheen. This is because of the starch and antioxidant present, which is a gentle conditioner for nails that smoothes the nail surface and leaves a light, shiny coat without polish.
4. Prevents Splitting and Peeling
One of the most common nail problems is splitting, when layers peel away and leave nails looking uneven. Starch and nutrients in rice water form a barrier on the outside of the nails, locking moisture in and keeping the annoying peeling effect out.
5. Nourishes Cuticles
Healthy nails aren't just about the nail plate, but your cuticles are also important. Rice water hydrates and conditions the skin around your nails, softening cuticles and less prone to painful cracking. You can even massage rice water onto your cuticles as a homemade cuticle treatment.
6. Protects Against Infections
Rice water possesses weak antioxidant and antimicrobial effects, making it effective in protecting nails against fungal infections, which lead to discolouration and brittleness. Although it's not a replacement for professional treatment, it can be used as a protective measure in your nail care regimen.
7. Affordable and Chemical-Free Nail Care
The best part? Rice water is completely natural and costs nothing extra. It's basically a byproduct of your meal prep. In contrast to chemical-based nail hardeners that can include abrasive ingredients, rice water is mild, safe, and appropriate for frequent use.
Also Read: What is the 'Rice-Zempic' Craze? How Rice Water Works For Weight Loss
How to Use Rice Water for Nails
- Soak Method: Save the water after rinsing rice or boiling. Allow it to cool and soak your nails for 10–15 minutes, two to three times weekly.
- Cuticle Massage: Soak a cotton ball in rice water and massage it onto your cuticles and nail bed.
- Nail Rinse: Use rice water as a quick rinse when washing your hands for everyday moisturising.