Published on August 12, 2019. Last Updated on April 3, 2024.
In the beauty world, it seems that rice bran for hair is growing in popularity, either as an oil or product ingredient. There are plenty of hair and health benefits of rice bran or rice bran oil in the beauty department, and scientists are now finding more conclusive evidence of rice bran’s benefits for hair and hair growth.
Like many plant-based extracts being talked about and marketed to consumers for hair health and growth, rice bran oil is attributed to a wide range of health benefits, including healthier-looking tresses, and improved hair growth.
While we should always be aware that there are many myths associated with different trending natural ingredients, studies explain why we should consider rice bran for improved hair sheen and growth.
The Beauty Buzz on Rice Bran Oil Properties For Hair
Online site brands, such as Style Craze, NDTV Food, Cure Joy, and Naturally Curly, have discussed rice bran oil’s hair and beauty benefits.
In fact, it is also a favorite of celebrity hairstylist, Corey Powell who says, “With its high concentration of vitamin E, rice bran oil creates a hard shell barrier around the hair cuticle so that the hairs are stronger and less likely to break.”
What is Rice Bran?
Referred to as the “Asian secret to beautiful, healthy hair,” rice bran oil is making its way from Eastern tradition to modern, natural health practices across the globe.
The gold-colored extract comes from the outer brown husk of the rice grain. It is heralded as a rich source of antioxidants, a dandruff fighter, and even a natural UV protectant. According to various online articles aimed at beauty enthusiasts, rice bran oil is the only source of a potent antioxidant known as oryzanol. Also, they mention that a component found in oryzanol, called ferulic acid, acts as a hair growth stimulant.
But what are scientists saying about the benefits of rice bran for hair? And what are actual studies revealing about how and why it can help with follicular and skin health?
Rice Bran For Hair Growth in Mice and Humans
Researchers in Korea have been looking more closely at how it is possible for rice bran extract to promote hair growth.
One study performed on mice, called “In vivo hair-growth promoting effect of rice bran extract prepared by supercritical C02 fluid“, investigated different components found in rice bran extract (RB-SCE, or rice bran supercritical extract) and their effect on hair growth. These included:
- linoleic acid
- policosanol
- Y-oryzanol
- Y-tocotrienol
The researchers observed results in terms of histological morphology (microscopic anatomical form, characteristics, quantities) and mRNA expression, which indicates the production of new protein structures based on instructions provided by DNA.
The administration of rice bran on mice increased several growth factors, as evidenced by mRNA expression. This included:
- vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)
- insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1)
- keratinocyte growth factor (KGF)
Also, the rice bran extract decreased levels of a compound known to be detrimental to hair growth, transforming growth factor – B (TGF-B).
These scientists also discovered that linoleic acid and y-oryzanol were the main components that induced the formation of new hair follicles. They also found that the rice bran extract also caused many overall total hair follicles to transition to the anagen (growth) stage – an important marker indicating the possible growth of new hair.
The hair growth potential of rice bran extract in this study showed similarities to 3% minoxidil. Based on all their findings, the researchers concluded that rice bran extract (RB-SCE) is a viable agent in treating hair loss.
It is important to note that although rice bran extract has similar hair growing potential to 3% minoxidil, rice bran is a completely natural product that can be taken regularly at prescribed doses without potential dangers to the body. 3% Minoxidil, on the other hand, is known to have potential unwanted side effects and complications to human health.
In another study, Safety, and Efficacy of Rice Bran Supercritical CO2 Extract For Hair Growth in Androgenic Alopecia, researchers looked at the effects of rice bran on 50 human male subjects with androgenic alopecia (2).
The subjects in the experimental group received topical dermal applications of 0.55 RB-SCE (8ml/d) for 16 weeks. The control subjects, on the other hand, received topical dermal applications of a placebo.
The researchers measured and compared various dimensions in both groups:
- hair quantity
- diameter
- density
Patient satisfaction and the feedback of dermatologists who assessed photographs of the subjects were considered as well.
At the end of the 16-week study, researchers found that the RB-SCE had produced a significant increase in hair density and diameter. In addition, patients reported high satisfaction with their outcomes, and photo assessments also confirmed these overall improvements to their hair quantity, diameter, and density.
Research on Rice Bran for Hair Loss
Rice bran oil may act as a 5a-reductase inhibitor, according to scientists. This enzyme is found in our bodies that breaks down testosterone into an end product known as DHT. In individuals genetically predisposed to androgenic alopecia (i.e., common pattern baldness), hair follicles are more sensitive to DHT, which causes them to miniaturize.
The development of treatments for hair loss has focused heavily on the inhibition of the 5a-reductase enzyme. In addition, researchers are investigating plant-based extracts from sources like rice bran to meet the demand for safer and more natural chemical ingredients.
In a study entitled, 5a-reductase type 1 inhibition of Oryza Sativa bran extract prepared by supercritical carbon dioxide fluid, scientists compared different plant extracts and their effect on human fibroblast cells (3). They found that Oryza Sativa (i.e., rice bran) demonstrated the highest antioxidative and biological activities, including stimulation of human skin fibroblast cells.
Furthermore, its linoleic acid content, total unsaturated fatty acid, and phenolic contents, along with its biological actions, were all found to correlate positively with 5a-reductase inhibition activity.
Based on these findings, the authors of this study concluded that Oryza sativa bran crude extract prepared by ScC02 could be considered for inclusion in anti-androgenic products.
What Scientists Have to Say About Rice Bran Oil Benefits for Hair Growth and Health
According to a review published by the Journal of Scientific and Industrial Research, Gamma-oryzanol from rice bran oil – A Review, the key component of rice bran oil, y-oryzanol, is a combination of ferulic acid esters of sterol as well as triterpene alcohols.
The review confirms that y-oryzanol can protect against UV-light, which promotes a detrimental process of lipid peroxidation. Additionally, the publication also cites research that illustrates how ferulic acid may promote hair growth by accelerating the process of cell differentiation.
Further Research Supporting Rice Bran for Hair Loss Prevention and Hair Growth Enhancement
More so, in a 2017 study published on Food & Nutrition Research, rice bran mineral extract (RBM) was studied in four varying treatment groups to “evaluate the efficacy of RBM in the expression of anagen-related molecules in human dermal papilla through wnt/catenin pathway expression.”
In this research, after the DPCs were administered throughout the differing treatments, western blot analysis showed that type I collagen expression increased “2.5-fold in the OSA (ortho-silicic acid) group and 4-fold in the RBM group.”
Thus, after careful consideration of their findings, these researchers concluded that “RBM has a potential to recover DPCs activity and decreased inflammatory-related markers, which validates rice bran’s possible use for hair growth. Furthermore, these researchers specifically stated that “hair loss prevention and hair growth enhancement can be expected when RBM is applied,” via cosmetic or hair growth-enhancing products, further supporting the benefit and potency of rice bran in combating alopecia.
Rice Bran For Hair Protection Against UV Rays – Research on Skin Fibroblasts and UV-B Damage
In a study called “Anti-photoaging effect of fermented rice bran extract on UV-induced normal skin fibroblasts,” scientists studied the effect of FRBE (fermented rice bran extracts) to protect in-vitro fibroblasts (cells that produce collagen) against UV-B damage.
These scientists observed how FRBE affected collagen synthesis. Over the course of 3 days, human fibroblast cells were treated with FRBE. The researchers then observed the following parameters:
- morphological change of the fibroblasts
- secretion of IL-ia
- pro-MMP-1 levels
After exposing the fibroblasts to UV-B radiation, the rate of cell growth declined. But after receiving treatment with FRBE, the normal rate of cell division was restored.
Treatment with the rice bran extract also increased collagen synthesis in a dose-dependent manner within the UV-damaged fibroblast cells.
Furthermore, IL-ia levels were also reduced to the baseline standards found in non-exposed control cells. And lastly, the rice bran treatment was found to decrease the levels of Pro-MMP-1 to normal concentrations.
In conclusion, when exposed to UV rays, hair can become dry, brittle, and aged. Therefore, the sun-protecting properties of rice bran extract support observations that rice bran extract can have powerful anti-UV protective elements that will work to great benefit for skin or hair protection products.
Rice Bran Side Effects
According to WebMD, rice bran is “likely safe” when taken orally. However, when consumed in higher-than-average quantities, it may cause stomach issues, gas, and unusual bowel movements. Topically, rice bran is “probably safe” when used as an exfoliant, added to baths, or used as a natural foot scrub. However, in more sensitive skin types, it may result in redness and itching.
Safety Profile For Rice Bran
The Environmental Working Group (EWG) gives rice bran oil a 1-2 “fair” (green) rating score on a scale of 1-10. In other words, this ingredient is considered to be generally safe in terms of its potential risks for issues such as;
- cancer
- developmental and reproductive toxicity
- allergies and immunotoxicity
- organ system toxicity
- environmental toxicity
EWG’s Skin Deep numerical ratings reflect health risk concerns associated with exposure to specific ratings. Rice bran’s score varies between 1 and 2 depending on its usage.
Other Uses of Rice Bran
Besides benefitting your hair follicle wellness, rice bran is a nutritious source of niacin, fiber, thiamin, and vitamin B6. Rich in calories, it helps dieters feel full much longer. So what are some other ways you can benefit from rice bran?
Breakfast Foods
Add rice bran when baking muffins or bread. More simply, add rice bran to your cereal (hot or cold) or your yogurt.
Healthy Snack
Consider quick no-cook uses in nutrition-filled power balls (i.e., combine in peanut butter, sunflower seed butter, dried coconut flakes, cacao bits, etc.)
Fruit Bowl
For breakfast, brunch, or Saturday-morning lunch, make a delicious raw-food chia seed pudding bowl. First, mix your chia seeds with your favorite nut milk. Next, add about two tablespoons of rice bran. And finally, top with colorful fruits such as raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, and sliced mangos. Take a snapshot with your phone and share your healthy and beautiful creations on Instagram!
How Can You Harness Rice Bran’s Beauty & Hair Improving Qualities?
Are you interested in treating your hair with rice-bran? Although you may find rice-bran products in-store, this may not be the best solution for your hair.
To seriously consider and use rice-bran oil to improve hair health, we recommend a well-formulated, research-supported product that not only retains the botanical healing properties of rice bran but also works together with other natural hair-benefitting ingredients to produce the best results in mind. So where should you go? Look no further and shop now at Dr. UGro Gashee!
Rather than wasting hours on research and your hard-earned money on products that do not work, Dr.UGro Gashee’s patented all-natural formulation of hair-growth products has been studied and clinically tested to help increase hair growth significantly.
Below you can find a video testimonial of one of many happy, satisfied Gashee users, who have reported higher levels of confidence and satisfaction with their hair.
Note the improved color, thickness, and health of her hair! After several months of natural Dr. UGro GASHEE oral hair supplements, she was able to dramatically improve the health of her hair. Due to the powerful blend of natural ingredients found within GASHEE oral capsules, you can expect much better and more practical results than other hair products on the market.
Dr. UGro Gashee: Before & After Pictures – Hair Restoration Results
Dr. UGro Gashee all-natural hair growth results: before and after 4 months of consistent usage. Note the improved fullness, length, texture, sheen, and shine of her overall hair health.
Frequently Asked Questions – Rice Bran For Hair Growth, Health, and Luster
Many people seem to be searching for DIY tips on making your own rice bran oil. But, will homemade versions work for hair problems such as dryness and hair loss?
Homemade extracts may not have an adequate concentration. Due to this reason, when it comes to dryness and hair loss, DIY rice bran oil may not produce any practical improvements for dryness and hair loss.
Therefore, it is probably better to find a professionally made rice bran oil product instead.
However, it is best to maintain realistic expectations when using a single ingredient, especially since problems like dryness and hair loss are likely due to many factors that differ from person to person.
To maximize your chances for hair recovery and the amount of hair growth for your situation, we recommend a holistic and natural approach for hair loss based on Gashee all-natural plant-based ingredients – formulated and clinically proven to help you reach hair health you desire.
Will rice bran oil for hair work on just the strands, or should it be applied to the scalp as well?
Using any natural oil on the hair can help to soften it. Applications on the scalp can be beneficial but should not be depended on as a fix-all, miracle treatment. It may be better to rely on more advanced formulations, including other effective natural ingredients supported by research studies.
The choice ingredients themselves are essential and the relative proportions to one another, as this can enhance their overall effect.
Is it beneficial to also consume rice bran oil to reap its benefits for the hair, skin, and the rest of the body?
Many online sources mention the health benefits of cooking with rice bran oil.
This is due to its content of antioxidants and monounsaturated fats and its ability to lower cholesterol.
Rice bran oil can potentially benefit many areas of the body. But it should be consumed within the overall context of a healthy, well-rounded diet. Your doctor can provide more specific forms of dietary guidance which is suitable for your body.
One recommended way to orally consume rice bran oil or rice bran oil extract to help with hair growth or hair recovery is through Dr.UGro’s Gashee oral supplements. Yet, although research finds that rice bran and its derivatives are often safe for human consumption, it is generally recommended to consult your doctor before going on any new medication or dietary supplements.
Related Articles on Hair Loss & Restoration
References
- Choi JS, Jeon MH, Moon WS, et al., In vivo hair-growth promoting effect of rice bran extract prepared by supercritical C02 fluid, Biol. Pharm Bull. 2014; 37(1):44-53
- Choi JS, Park JB, Moon WS, et al., Safety and Efficacy of Rice Bran Supercritical C02 Extract for Hair Growth in Androgenic Alopecia, BioPharma Bull. 2015; 38(12): 1856-63
- W.Ruksiriwanich, J.Manosroi, M.Abe, et al., 5a-reductase type 1 inhibition of Oryza Sativa bran extract prepared by supercritical carbon dioxide fluid, The Journal of Supercritical Fluids, Volume 59, Nov.2011, pages 61-71
- M.Patel and SN Naik, Gamma-oryzanol From Rice Bran Oil – A Review, Journal of Scientific and Industrial Research, Volume 63, July 2004, pp.569-578
- Kim, Y., Kwon, S., Jang, H. and Seo, Y., 2021. Rice bran mineral extract increases the expression of anagen-related molecules in human dermal papilla through wnt/catenin pathway.
- Young-Kwon S, Su-Hyun J, Kye-Yong, et al., Anti-photo aging effect of fermented rice bran extract on UV-induced normal skin fibroblasts, European Food Research and Technology, June 2010, Volume 231, Issue 2, pp-163-169
- Umar, S. and Carter, M., 2021. A Multimodal Hair-Loss Treatment Strategy Using a New Topical Phytoactive Formulation: A Report of Five Cases