Reviewed: Mielle Organics’ Rice Water Clay Masque Revived My Dry Curls

We put Mielle Organics’ Rice Water Clay Masque to the test after receiving a complimentary sample from the brand. Keep reading for our full product review.

Over the past few years, the natural hair community has been buzzing about the benefits of rice water. The starchy liquid has been touted for promoting hair growth and softening strands, although there's only been one limited study linking rice bran extract with hair loss prevention. I’ve watched dozens of influencers with textured hair try rice water treatments and rice water products, in awe of their resulting hydrated, voluminous coils. 

So when I received a press sample of Mielle Organics' Rice Water Collection, I was eager to see how my hair would respond. The collection boasts four products, but the Mielle Organics Rice Water Clay Masque—which doubles as a hair and body treatment—immediately piqued my interest.

After giving it a try for the first time last month, I immediately fell in love with how the mask made my hair look, feel, and smell. Keep scrolling for my full review.

Pros:

• Affordable
• Made with all-natural ingredients
• Leaves hair soft, hydrated, and bouncy 
• Doubles as a body treatment

Cons:

• May run out quickly if used regularly on hair and body

Mielle Organics Rice Water Clay Masque $12.00

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About My Hair: Thick and curly 

If I could pick three words to describe my hair, they would be thick, curly, and long. But like many, I went through a phase where flat irons and curling wands were my best friend and damaged my natural curl pattern, so I've been limiting heat styling to once or twice a year to restore my tresses. And since my curls are prone to dryness and frizziness, I've been conscious about curating my hair care routine with products that amp up hydration.

Enter the need for a mask that can deposit ample moisture into my often parched curls. I apply a generous amount to freshly shampooed hair, coating my strands from root to tip. I cover my hair with a plastic cap and let the product work its magic for 30 minutes before rinsing it out. Per the instructions, I incorporate it into my routine every two weeks. 

The Feel: Creamy and rich 

This mask is ultra-creamy and smooth. It glided onto my hair like butter, melting into each curly strand as I applied it. Though the mask is a deep pink color, it didn’t leave any colored residue on my hair. 

Ingredients: Packed with good-for-you ingredients

One of the things I love about Mielle Organics is that the brand prioritizes using organic ingredients in its products to promote healthier hair and skin. In this product—which is clean according to Byrdie’s standards—rice water and yuzu are the key ingredients. As mentioned, rice water has earned anecdotal praise for strengthening strands. Meanwhile, yuzu, a citrus fruit originating in Asia, is known for its anti-aging properties, soothing dry skin, and stimulating collagen production.

This mask also contains a super nourishing blend of oils and butters, including shea butter, sunflower seed oil, sweet almond oil, olive oil, rapeseed oil, castor oil, jojoba oil, sesame oil, peppermint oil, and rosemary oil.

The Scent: Subtle and sweet 

Upon opening, I was greeted by a pleasantly sweet scent. From peppermint oil to shea butter, this mask is packed with ingredients that meld together to create a fresh, almost tropical-like smell. 

How to Apply: From root to tip

If you're using it as a hair mask, apply a generous dollop after shampooing to damp hair and leave it on for no less than 15 minutes and up to half an hour. After rinsing it out, you can apply a deep conditioner for an extra boost of hydration.

When you're using it as a body treatment, apply a thin layer and leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes before washing it off.

The Results: Juicy curls with tons of bounce

After rinsing the mask out of my hair, I instantly noticed how smooth and shiny my curls were. When my hair fully dried hours later, I saw just how magical this mask was. In the words of Tracee Ellis Ross, my curls were so juicy. They had so much bounce, body, and definition to them. From my roots to my ends, my hair was incredibly soft and, above all, moisturized.  

The Value: Affordable price tag

When it comes to hair products, I’m always looking for budget-friendly gems. This mask is one of them. It usually retails for around $12. For how well it performs, this product’s price is a steal. I only wish it came with a bit more product because those who use it regularly on their hair and body may run through it quickly.

Similar Products: You have options

SheaMoisture Purple Rice Water Hair Masque: Similar to the Mielle Organics Masque, this SheaMoisture Purple Rice Water Hair Masque ($12) is crafted with natural ingredients. The potent blend of purple rice water, sweet violet extract, and wild orchid work to add hydration to brittle hair. However, this mask is primarily for those with color-treated hair. It is designed to diminish brassy undertones while preserving color.

Pattern Treatment Mask: Though twice as expensive, the Pattern Treatment Mask ($25) can be compared to the Mielle Organics Rice Water Clay Masque because it's a nutrient-dense option specially crafted for dry strands. It was created for hair transitioning away from chemical treatments or protective styles, and it's infused with white tea to fight hair fall and manuka honey to minimize breakage and maintain moisture balance.