Disclaimer: This recipe is an at-home, natural hair treatment inspired by traditional Asian hair-care ideas (onion and rice have long been used in folk remedies). It can help smooth, soften and temporarily relax frizz by coating the hair with protein/starch-rich extracts, but it is not a guaranteed substitute for professional salon keratin or chemical straightening — those use high-heat and specific keratin formulas to produce long-lasting structural change. Always do a skin patch test before applying anything to your scalp.
Why onion + rice?
Onion contains sulfur and small amounts of amino acids that people use traditionally for scalp health and shine. Its juice is believed to help strengthen hair and improve manageability.
Rice (and rice water) is rich in starches and soluble proteins that coat the hair shaft, smoothing cuticles and reducing friction — which can make hair lie flatter and look straighter and shinier.
Together, onion juice and rice starch create a thick, protein-rich gel that behaves like a natural smoothing mask — think “keratin-like” in effect, rather than chemically changing the hair’s structure forever.
What you’ll need (simple)
1 large onion (yellow or white)
½ cup uncooked white rice (long-grain or short-grain both work)
Water
A blender or grinder, fine strainer/cheesecloth, small pot, bowl, shower cap or plastic wrap, towel
Preparation (step-by-step)
1. Make the rice water:
Rinse ½ cup rice briefly, then put it in a bowl with 1–1½ cups water.
Rub the rice gently for 1 minute, then drain the cloudy water into a clean jar — that is your rice water. (For a richer starch, you can simmer 1 cup rice in 3 cups water for 10–15 minutes and strain the cooking liquid; cool before using.)
Optional: let the rice water sit at room temperature for 12–24 hours to ferment slightly (this increases the amino-acid content); refrigerate afterwards.
2. Extract onion juice:
Chop the onion and blend until pulpy.
Strain through cheesecloth or a fine sieve, squeezing to collect as much juice as possible. You should get several tablespoons. If you have little, use what you have — onion is potent.
3. Make the smoothing gel:
In a small pot, pour about 1 cup rice water and simmer gently until it thickens slightly (you’re concentrating the starch). Stir frequently so it doesn’t burn — you want a thin gel, not glue. Let cool.
Stir in 1–2 tablespoons onion juice into the cooled rice gel and mix until uniform. If the mixture is too runny, add a small amount of blended cooked rice to thicken. The result should be spreadable — like a light mask.
How to apply
1. Shampoo and towel-dry your hair so it’s damp (clean hair accepts treatments better).
2. Section hair and apply the rice-onion gel from roots to ends (if your scalp is sensitive, avoid heavy application to the scalp and concentrate on the lengths).
3. Massage lightly, then gather hair and cover with a shower cap or plastic wrap. Wrap a warm towel over the cap for gentle heat (10–15 minutes) to help the starch set.
4. Leave on for 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on comfort. Longer may give more smoothing but monitor scalp for irritation.
5. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. You can shampoo lightly if needed to remove onion smell. Condition as usual.
Repeat weekly or every 7–10 days for several weeks. Many people see improved smoothness and reduced frizz after a few sessions.
What to expect
Short–medium term: hair will feel smoother, appear shinier, and be easier to detangle. The rice starch creates a temporary coating that helps hair lie flatter.
Long term: regular use can improve manageability, but this DIY will not permanently change the internal structure of hair the way professional chemical straightening or salon keratin treatments can. Effects are cumulative but temporary — they gradually wash out over several shampoos.
Safety & tips
Patch test first: apply a small amount to the inner forearm or a tiny scalp spot and wait 24 hours for irritation. If burning, redness, or itching occurs, do not use.
Onion smell: it can linger. Rinsing with a mild shampoo or a last rinse of diluted lemon or aromatic rinse helps — but avoid anything that irritates your scalp.
Allergies/skin sensitivity: if you have eczema, open wounds, severe scalp conditions, or are prone to allergic reactions, consult a professional before trying home remedies.
Hair type suitability: this treatment suits people seeking smoothing/shine; extremely curly or coarse hair may notice reduced frizz but not permanent straightening. Fine hair may benefit from the coating effect but avoid over-use to prevent residue buildup.
Storage: store unused gel in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–5 days; discard if it smells strongly off.
Quick FAQ
Q: Will this make my hair permanently straight?
A: No. It can smooth and relax the hair’s surface so strands look straighter while the coating is present. True permanent straightening needs chemical/salon procedures.
Q: How often should I use it?
A: Once a week is a good starting point. Adjust depending on results and how your hair responds.
Q: Can I add oils or egg for extra conditioning?
A: Yes — many people add coconut oil, aloe, or egg yolk for extra conditioning. Since you asked for onion + rice only, those are optional extras if you want a richer mask.
Final thoughts
This onion + rice “homemade keratin” is a gentle, low-cost ritual that taps into two time-tested natural ingredients. It’s best thought of as a smoothing and strengthening mask that improves shine and manageability rather than a permanent straightening solution. If you want long-lasting structural straightening, consult a professional stylist about certified keratin treatments or permanent straightening options.
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